3-Ingredient Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe
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Goat cheese stuffed dates are the answer when you need a quick crowd-pleasing snack. The natural sweetness of Medjool dates pairs perfectly with the tanginess of creamy goat cheese, and a sprinkle of crunchy walnuts adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you need a no-fail appetizer or just want something delicious to snack on, this recipe is as simple as it gets.
I can’t tell you how many times these stuffed dates have saved me. When unexpected guests show up, when I need to bring something to a gathering at the last minute, or when I just want a quick, satisfying bite, they always come through. I love that they look elegant on a party platter but take almost no time to put together. And honestly? They’re so good, I usually make extra just for myself. Once you try them, I have a feeling you’ll be doing the same!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Guilt-free indulgence: Naturally sweet with no refined sugar, these stuffed dates satisfy cravings without compromising your health goals.
- Make in advance: Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, let them come to room temp, and they’re good to go!
- No-cook: No need to turn on the stove or oven. Just slice, fill, and serve.
- Make them your own: Want to switch it up? Try drizzling with honey, adding a pinch of sea salt, or swapping in pistachios or pecans for a different crunch.
- Effortless snacking: No mess, no fuss. These two-bite treats are easy to grab and enjoy.
- Flavor combo: The natural sweetness of dates, the creamy tang of goat cheese, and the crunch of walnuts create a bite that’s rich, balanced, and totally irresistible.
How to Make Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
I used to think dates were just another dried fruit I could skip until I tried stuffing them with goat cheese. That creamy, tangy contrast turned their natural sweetness into something amazing. Now, they’re my go-to for a quick, effortless snack.
Serve them chilled for a fresh bite, or bake them to bring out a rich caramelized flavor while the goat cheese melts into creamy perfection. Once you try these, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner.
Scroll down for the full recipe with easy step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients You Need
- Medjool dates: This naturally sweet fruit is ideal for stuffing thanks to their soft texture and generous size.
- Goat cheese: Tangy, creamy, and the perfect contrast to the caramel-like sweetness of dates. Letting it soften at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes makes it easier to work with. Love goat cheese? Check out these easy recipes that use goat cheese – beet green salad and spicy cheese and spinach omelet!
- Walnuts: Walnuts add a rich, nutty texture that balances everything together.
Step-By-Step Instructions
You’re only minutes away from a sweet and savory bite that everyone will love. With just three ingredients and foolproof steps, you’ll have a plate of goat cheese stuffed dates that will be gone before you know it!
Step 1: Prepare
Slice each Medjool date open along one side and remove the pit.
Step 2: Fill
Spoon in a generous amount of goat cheese. Make sure it fills the center. Then, add a walnut on top by gently pressing it into the cheese so it stays in place.
Step 3: Serve
Enjoy them as is, or place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350F oven for 10 minutes until the dates soften and the flavors deepen. For an extra touch, drizzle with hot honey or a little olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt before serving.
Substitutions
These goat cheese stuffed dates are already a perfect bite, but why not make them even better? There are so many ways to switch things up while keeping that sweet and savory touch. If you’re looking for easy ways to make them your own, here’s how to get started!
- Goat cheese: If goat cheese isn’t your thing, swap it out for something that suits your taste. Cream cheese gives a milder, smoother bite, while blue cheese adds a bold, tangy kick. Feta is another great option for a slightly salty contrast. For a dairy-free twist, try stuffing the dates with almond or cashew butter instead.
- Walnuts: No walnuts? Crunchy almonds add a nutty depth, while pistachios bring a hint of natural sweetness. Both make great substitutes while keeping that satisfying texture in every bite.
Variations
The beauty of goat cheese stuffed dates is how easy they are to make your own. Whether you’re craving something a little sweeter, a bit saltier, or just want to mix things up, a few simple swaps can completely enhance the flavor. Here are some fun ways to switch things up and keep this delicious snack exciting!
- Turn them into dessert: If you’re craving something sweet, try swapping the goat cheese for peanut butter and topping it with mini chocolate chips. It’s a fun, dessert-style twist that my family can’t get enough of!
- Experiment with cheese & nuts: Swap goat cheese for cream cheese, blue cheese, or herbed cheese. Pair it with different nuts like almonds, pecans, or pistachios for a new flavor each time.
- Add a crispy bacon twist: Wrap each stuffed date in a thin slice of bacon, secure it with a toothpick, and bake at 400 F for 15 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Try a spicy kick: A light dusting of cayenne or smoked paprika before serving adds just the right amount of heat to balance the sweetness.
Expert Tips
- Make serving easy: Dates can get sticky, especially if baked. Offer toothpicks or small cocktail forks so guests can grab them effortlessly.
- Slice with precision: Use a sharp knife to make a clean cut down the middle of each date without slicing all the way through. This makes stuffing them much easier.
Keep It neat: Overstuffing can get messy fast. A small spoon or piping bag helps evenly distribute the goat cheese while keeping a good cheese-to-date ratio. - Extra crunch: Lightly toasting the walnuts enhances their nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- Finishing touch: A small sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary not only adds a subtle herbal note but also makes the presentation more inviting.
How to Store This Recipe
Store any leftover goat cheese stuffed dates in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. Prefer them warm? Simply pop them in a 350 F oven for about 15 minutes until heated through and enjoy!
What to Serve with Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
Goat cheese stuffed dates make the perfect addition to any charcuterie board, pairing beautifully with cured meats, a variety of cheeses, fresh fruits, and nuts. Add some texture with bacon and cheddar biscuits, toasted baguette slices, or crostini.
Fresh fruit like grapes, apple slices, or pears bring out their natural sweetness. For parties, they pair well with cocktails like lemon drop martini or an espresso martini. If you’re enjoying them for the holidays, serve them with a warm mug of eggnog or hot chocolate for a festive touch!
More Appetizers To Try
- Stuffed mushrooms with cream cheese
- Spinach artichoke dip
- Cheesy pickle chips
- Cheese curds
- Herb cheese ball
Tried these goat cheese stuffed dates? I’d love to hear what you think! Your reviews and 5-star ratings mean so much and help others discover this easy recipe.
Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipes
Ingredients
- 16 whole Medjool dates
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Slice each Medjool date open along one side and remove the pit.
- Spoon in a generous amount of goat cheese. Make sure it fills the center. Then, add a walnut on top by gently pressing it into the cheese so it stays in place.
- Enjoy them as is, or place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350 °F oven for 10 minutes until the dates soften and the flavors deepen. For an extra touch, drizzle with hot honey or a little olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt before serving.
Notes
- Dates can get sticky, especially if baked. Offer toothpicks or small cocktail forks so guests can grab them effortlessly.
- Use a sharp knife to make a clean cut down the middle of each date without slicing all the way through.
- Overstuffing can get messy fast. A small spoon or piping bag helps evenly distribute the goat cheese while keeping a good cheese-to-date ratio.
- Lightly toasting the walnuts enhances their nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- A small sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary not only adds a subtle herbal note but also makes the presentation more inviting.
Nutrition & Macros
To obtain the most accurate representation of the nutritional information in a given recipe, please calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients and amounts used, using your preferred nutrition calculator. Under no circumstances shall the this website and the author be responsible for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on the given nutritional information.
