There’s something magical about appetizers that combine sweetness, creaminess, crunch, and warmth all in a single bite. Roasted Stuffed Dates deliver exactly that. Medjool dates—naturally caramel-like—make the perfect base for a rich goat cheese filling and an herby walnut topping. Once roasted, they become warm, tender, and lightly crisp around the edges, turning into an elegant appetizer that works for holidays, gatherings, or a simple treat at home.
This dish feels luxurious without being complicated. The preparation is quick, the ingredients are simple, and the flavor payoff is huge. It’s the kind of recipe that impresses guests instantly while requiring minimal effort—just a few minutes of assembly and a brief roast. Whether you’re hosting or looking for a unique snack, these stuffed dates strike the perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and spicy (thanks to that final drizzle of hot honey).
Recipe Overview
Roasted Stuffed Dates are warm Medjool dates filled with tangy goat cheese, topped with an aromatic walnut–rosemary mixture, roasted until tender, and finished with hot honey. They make an excellent appetizer, snack, or party bite, offering a blend of textures and flavors in just a few ingredients.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 12 oz pitted Medjool dates
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 teaspoons orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Hot honey (for drizzling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Dates
Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice each Medjool date lengthwise, creating an opening for the filling, but keep them intact. Add 1–2 teaspoons of goat cheese inside each date, pressing gently to secure.
2. Make the Walnut-Rosemary Topping
In a small bowl, combine:
- Chopped walnuts
- Fresh rosemary
- Orange zest
- Orange juice
- Cinnamon
- Sea salt
- Olive oil
Mix until the walnuts are evenly coated. This mixture brings fragrance, crunch, and a hint of citrus.
3. Arrange and Top
Place the stuffed dates in a baking dish, then spoon a small mound of the walnut mixture onto each one.
4. Roast
Bake for 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to warm, the nuts to toast, and the flavors to meld. Remove and let them rest for 5 minutes.
5. Finish & Serve
Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle generously with hot honey. Serve warm.
Cooking Tips & Variations
Enhance the Flavor
- Try different cheeses: Ricotta, mascarpone, or blue cheese each bring their own personality.
- Swap nuts: Pecans or pistachios work beautifully for a different crunch.
Adjust Sweetness or Heat
- For a milder finish, use regular honey instead of hot honey.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the walnut mixture for extra heat.
Texture Boosts
- Lightly toast the nuts before mixing for deeper flavor.
- Add a few drops of balsamic glaze for a tangy finish.
Make Ahead
Stuff the dates and prepare the topping in advance. Assemble and roast right before serving so they stay warm and crisp.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a low oven (300°F) for 5–7 minutes to restore warmth without drying.
Serving Ideas
- Serve on a cheese board alongside brie, aged cheddar, and fresh fruit.
- Pair with herbal tea, espresso, or sparkling wine.
- Use as part of a holiday appetizer spread or brunch menu.
Roasted stuffed dates offer a wonderful way to blend simple ingredients into something memorable. With minimal prep and bold flavor, they’re an excellent choice for hosting or for elevating your everyday snacking. Their balance of creamy goat cheese, aromatic rosemary, and sweet-hot honey makes them a versatile dish you’ll want to return to again.
FAQs
1. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes—use a plant-based cream cheese or cashew cheese alternative.
2. Can I use regular dates instead of Medjool?
You can, but Medjool dates are larger, softer, and sweeter, making them ideal for stuffing.
3. Can these be served cold?
They’re best warm, but you can enjoy them at room temperature.
4. What can I use if I don’t have hot honey?
Mix honey with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.
5. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Easily—just use a larger baking dish and keep the roasting time the same.
Easy and elegant, these Roasted Stuffed Dates are filled with creamy goat cheese, topped with a rosemary–walnut mixture, roasted to perfection, and drizzled with hot honey. Perfect appetizer for parties or cozy gatherings.
