Sweet and savory bites are elevated by the combination of roasted pecans and fresh thyme, making them a quick, effortless, and scrumptious appetizer that’s sure to delight any gathering.
When hosting a dinner party, there’s nothing more frustrating than a delay in serving the meal, leading to hangry guests. To avoid this common pitfall, consider preparing an effortless yet impressive appetizer like goat cheese-stuffed dates that will delight your visitors and keep their hunger at bay.
The harmonious marriage of sweet, caramelized dates and creamy goat cheese yields a sublime flavor profile, while the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans elevates this dish to new heights of culinary excellence. A classic combination they make for Thanksgiving dinner: my go-to roasted Brussels sprouts, served alongside sweet potato bites and paired with the tangy zip of hot honey whipped cottage cheese dip.
Why I Love This Recipe
- The harmonious union of succulent Medjool dates, rich goat cheese, and satisfyingly toasted pecans masterfully satisfies the palate. With every morsel, you’ll discover a harmonious blend of sugary, salty, and umami flavors that will leave you craving more.
- Despite their elegant appearance, these stuffed dates are surprisingly straightforward to prepare. Savor a scrumptious snack with just five essential components and effortless preparation – a culinary delight at your fingertips!
- Whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or simply craving a sweet and savory treat, these bite-sized stuffed dates are the ideal choice for any get-together.
Ingredients Needed
- The shining star of the production! You can purchase medjool dates that come pre-pitted for added convenience, or opt to pit them yourself – a straightforward process that’s quite effortless. I enjoy products from both Natural Delights and Joolies. Natural Delights can typically be found in the produce section of major grocery stores, situated adjacent to the bananas, while Joolies are available for purchase on Amazon and Thrive Market online platforms.
- A rich, velvety cheese that harmoniously complements the natural sweetness of the dates, creating a delightful culinary marriage.
- – the perfect crunch! Consider skipping the roasting step to preserve their natural flavor, or take the extra step to unlock a richer, more developed taste profile.
- If you opt to roast your pecans, begin by tossing them with a drizzle of pure maple syrup. Trust me, it’s delicious!
Substitutions & Variations
- A variety of soft cheeses – from cream cheese to feta and beyond – offers an array of delectable options for any palate.
- Considering alternative nuts for your recipe: would you prefer using walnuts, pistachios, or almonds instead of the traditional choice? Go for it!
- Sub in a dairy-free cheese! Cashew cheese provides a delightful and creamy substitute for traditional dairy products in various recipes. This yogurt-like spread has a rich, velvety consistency that can be infused with a zesty, citrusy taste. Almond ricotta is a delightful alternative, offering a subtle yet richly creamy flavour profile.
- Consider omitting the pecans altogether and instead garnishing the dish with a generous sprinkling of roasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch and a burst of nutty flavor.
- With their sweet and savory flavor profiles, I’m confident that wrapping goat cheese stuffed dates in crispy bacon will create an irresistible culinary experience.
- Try filling dates with a rich nut butter, then topping them with a crunchy medley of roasted nuts or decadent chocolate chips. I am utterly enamored with the delightful combination of rich, velvety chocolate and creamy peanut butter filling, perfectly nestled within succulent dates.
How to Make Stuffed Dates
Start by chopping your pecans. Infuse the fruit slices into a small bowl with a drizzle of maple syrup and a pinch of warm spices. Toss until well coated.
Preheat your oven to the desired temperature, then spread the pecans evenly across a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them in the oven for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until they reach the level of doneness you prefer. Set aside to cool.
As the nuts roast, slice the dates in half lengthwise and carefully remove the pit.
Fill each date with crumbly goat cheese for a sweet and tangy treat. Sprinkle the cooled pecans artfully over the creamy goat cheese. Enjoy!
Brittany’s Tip!
While roasting pecans with maple syrup and thyme may appear to be an added complexity, I assure you that the end result is well worth the effort. Roasting imbues these treats with an irresistible crunch, further enhancing the harmonious balance of their sweet and savory flavors in this delectable appetizer. Carefully monitor the pecans as they bake, as they can swiftly transition from precisely toasted to burnt.
Are Stuffed Dates Suitable for Advance Preparation?
Yes! These energy-boosting bites are perfect for meal prep, as they retain their flavor and texture when stored in the refrigerator. Pit dates, then fill them with crumbly goat cheese and seal them in an airtight container for refrigeration up to three days. Can you wait until just before serving to toast the pecans, ensuring they remain warm and crunchy? When serving, crown each date with a generous scattering of freshly roasted pecans and a delicate dusting of thyme. The art of deception is alive and well!
How to Store Leftovers
Should you happen to have any leftovers, store them securely in the refrigerator for no more than three to four days. You can indulge in these treats directly from the refrigerator or allow them to reach room temperature for optimal texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
While I enjoy stuffing my dates with a tangy blend of goat cheese and honey, I also appreciate alternative pairings like cream cheese, blue cheese, ricotta, or feta for added depth and complexity. A variety of textures, such as mashed potatoes, cooked carrots, or even cooked corn, can add a pleasing softness to your stuffing.
Want to know a secret? Dates that feel a bit stiff? No problem! Soak the dates in warm water for approximately 10-15 minutes, before draining them thoroughly and gently patting them dry with a paper towel or clean cloth. These puff pastry shells will be delightfully plump, yielding a tender texture that’s perfect for filling with the rich, creamy essence of goat cheese.
Goat cheese-stuffed dates offer a delightful combination of flavours and textures, plus they’re bursting with nutrients. A combination of dates brings out the natural sweetness, along with essential nutrients like fiber and antioxidants, complemented by the protein-rich goat cheese that also contributes a moderate amount of healthy fats. Enhance this indulgent treat by topping it with pecans for an added textural element and a boost of nutritious, healthy fats – a perfect combination that will satisfy both your cravings and your conscience.
Medjool dates boast a deep, caramel-infused flavour profile and a sublime, velvety texture, setting them apart from Deglet Noor, the more diminutive, firmer variety with its subtle, yet pleasing sweetness. I frequently utilize Medjool dates in various recipes of mine, including my popular date mounds bars, nutritious peanut butter balls, and effortless no-bake almond cookies.
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