There’s something magical about a recipe that looks elegant, tastes luxurious, and requires only a handful of simple ingredients. Roasted Stuffed Dates fall beautifully into that category—soft, caramel-like Medjool dates filled with tangy goat cheese, topped with an herby, citrusy walnut mixture, and roasted until warm and fragrant. Finished with a drizzle of hot honey, they strike the perfect balance between sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy.
This dish is ideal for gatherings, holidays, or intimate dinners. It feels sophisticated yet comes together quickly, with very little prep and only a few minutes in the oven. Whether served as a starter, a party bite, or a festive snack, these stuffed dates add richness and warmth to any table. Let’s walk through how to make them shine.
Recipe Overview
Roasted Stuffed Dates bring together tender Medjool dates, creamy goat cheese, aromatic rosemary, crunchy walnuts, and bright citrus zest. They roast into a soft, lightly crisp bite that pairs beautifully with hot honey. The result is a luxurious appetizer that’s ready in under 25 minutes and pleases a wide range of palates.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 12 oz pitted Medjool dates
- 4 oz goat cheese, room temperature
- ⅓ cup finely chopped walnuts
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 teaspoons orange juice
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Hot honey, for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dates
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice each date lengthwise—without cutting all the way through—so it opens like a small pocket. Add 1–2 teaspoons of goat cheese into each date, pressing gently so it stays in place.
Tip: Slightly chill the dates before slicing for cleaner cuts and easier stuffing.
2. Make the Walnut-Rosemary Topping
In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, fresh rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, sea salt, and olive oil. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
This mixture should be aromatic, nutty, and lightly citrusy.
3. Assemble and Roast
Place the stuffed dates in a baking dish. Spoon a small mound of the walnut mixture onto each stuffed date, making sure some of the topping sits inside and some spills over the edges.
Bake for 15 minutes, until the nuts are lightly toasted and the cheese is warm.
Let them rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors settle and keeps the cheese from being too hot when served.
4. Finish with Hot Honey
Transfer the dates to a serving platter. Drizzle hot honey over the top to add gentle heat and a glossy finish.
Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Change the Cheese
- Cream cheese for a milder, smoother filling
- Blue cheese for a bold, tangy bite
- Ricotta for a lighter, creamier version
2. Nut Alternatives
- Pecans add sweetness
- Pistachios add color and a softer crunch
- Almonds provide a firmer, roasted texture
3. Spice Variations
Swap cinnamon for cardamom or add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist.
4. Make-Ahead Option
Stuff and top the dates earlier in the day. Cover and refrigerate. Roast them just before serving for peak freshness.
5. Serving Style
Serve on a cheese board, alongside cured meats, or on their own as an appetizer.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to refresh the texture.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with sparkling wine or citrusy cocktails
- Serve over a bed of arugula as a small salad appetizer
- Add to mezze-style platters for contrast and richness
Roasted Stuffed Dates transform simple ingredients into a warm, luxurious appetizer that works for casual gatherings or elegant dinners alike. The combination of creamy goat cheese, crunchy herbed walnuts, citrus aroma, and spicy-sweet honey offers complex flavor with minimal effort. This dish is quick, flexible, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite for entertaining or everyday snacking.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular dates instead of Medjool?
Medjool dates are preferred because they’re larger and softer, but regular dates work if they’re fresh and plump.
2. What can I use instead of hot honey?
Regular honey with a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil works well.
3. Can I make these dairy-free?
Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
4. Can I serve them cold?
They’re best warm, but they also taste great at room temperature.
5. Can I toast the nuts beforehand?
You can, but they’ll toast lightly in the oven while roasting the dates.
Roasted Stuffed Dates with goat cheese, rosemary walnuts, and hot honey—an elegant, quick appetizer bursting with sweet-savory flavor. Perfect for entertaining or everyday snacks.
