Name: Stuffed Dates (6 Ways!) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 soft Medjool dates, pitted; 4 ounces goat cheese, softened (e.g., Trader Joe’s Caramelized Onion); ¼ cup chopped pistachios; 3 tablespoons hot honey, or to taste; 4 ounces brie cheese, cut into 12 small pieces (about 1 teaspoon each); 12 pecan halves; Chopped fresh rosemary (amount as preferred); 4 ounces ricotta cheese; ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional); 12 oil-packed sun-dried tomato halves; 12 fresh basil leaves; 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter; ¼ cup roasted salted peanuts, finely chopped, divided; ½ cup dark chocolate chips, melted; 6 tablespoons creamy almond butter; 12 fresh raspberries; 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter; 12 thin banana slices; ¼ cup dark chocolate chips, melted

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 2 reviews

If you love simple yet irresistible bites that thrill your taste buds, then this Stuffed Dates (6 Ways!) Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These soft, naturally sweet Medjool dates transform into stunning little packages of flavor when filled with everything from creamy goat cheese and spicy hot honey to rich chocolate and fresh raspberries. Whether you want a sophisticated appetizer or a quick snack, these six creative takes make it easy to impress with minimal effort. Get ready to discover how such a humble fruit can shine gloriously in both sweet and savory forms!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate with a delicate pattern holds a single layer of shiny, dark brown dates arranged closely together. The dates have a wrinkled texture and glossy surface that catches the light, showing their natural rich color. The plate is on a white marbled surface with a soft white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These stuffed dates rely on a handful of simple, quality ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. From creamy cheeses to crunchy nuts and vibrant herbs or fruit, every element contributes to a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color that makes every bite memorable.

12 soft Medjool dates, pitted: The naturally sweet and chewy base that holds all the delicious fillings together beautifully.
Goat cheese (4 ounces, softened): Adds tangy creaminess, perfect for pairing with the crunch of pistachios and the kick of hot honey.
Chopped pistachios (¼ cup): Provide a lovely nutty crunch and a pop of green color.
Hot honey (3 tablespoons or to taste): A sweet heat that elevates the flavor with a subtle spice.
Brie cheese (4 ounces, cut into small pieces): Brings buttery richness that melts on the tongue.
Pecan halves (12): Offer a warm, earthy crunch pairing wonderfully with rosemary.
Fresh rosemary (chopped): Imparts a fragrant herbal note that brightens the brie and pecan combo.
Ricotta cheese (4 ounces): Creamy and mild, it’s a perfect canvas for zest and sun-dried tomatoes.
Kosher salt (⅛ teaspoon): Enhances all flavors delicately in the ricotta mixture.
Lemon zest (½ teaspoon, optional): Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness.
Oil-packed sun-dried tomato halves (12): Intense umami and a chewy texture that contrasts the creamy cheese.
Fresh basil leaves (12): Provides a sweet herbal freshness that complements tomato and cheese.
Creamy peanut butter (4 tablespoons): Rich and nutty, the base for chocolate and Snickers inspired stuffed dates.
Roasted salted peanuts (¼ cup, finely chopped): Adds crunch and saltiness to balance the sweet chocolate.
Dark chocolate chips (½ cup), melted: For indulgent dipping and drizzling.
Creamy almond butter (6 tablespoons): Smooth and subtly sweet for pairing with fresh raspberries.
Fresh raspberries (12): Bursting with tartness to cut through the richness of almond butter.
Thin banana slices (12): Soft sweetness for the Chunky Monkey flavor combo.

How to Make Stuffed Dates (6 Ways!) Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Dates

Start by carefully slicing each Medjool date lengthwise with a small sharp knife and removing the pit. This creates a perfect little pocket just waiting for delicious fillings. Arrange your prepped dates on a plate or, if you plan to warm any later, on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This prep step is fast but essential to ensure the dates hold their shape and are easy to stuff and serve.

Step 2: Goat Cheese, Pistachio, and Hot Honey

Take softened goat cheese and spread approximately one teaspoon inside each date’s cavity with a small spreader or spoon. Then sprinkle chopped pistachios over the cheese and finish them with a generous drizzle of hot honey. This combo delights with creamy, spicy, sweet, and crunchy layers all at once—a true crowd-pleaser!

Step 3: Brie, Pecan, and Rosemary

Pop a small piece of brie inside each date along with a pecan half. To finish, sprinkle finely chopped fresh rosemary over the top. The warm earthiness of the pecan and fragrant herb perfectly complements the smooth, buttery brie, making this version an elegant yet super easy bite to serve at gatherings.

Step 4: Ricotta, Sun-Dried Tomato, and Basil

Mix ricotta cheese with kosher salt and lemon zest, if using, to brighten the flavor. Spoon the cheese mixture inside the dates, and add one sun-dried tomato half and a fresh basil leaf on top. This Mediterranean-inspired combo offers a vibrant, creamy, and slightly tangy filling that tastes incredible with the natural sweetness of dates.

Step 5: Snickers Style (Peanut Butter and Chocolate)

Stuff each date with about a teaspoon of creamy peanut butter and sprinkle a pinch of chopped roasted salted peanuts inside. Dip the stuffed dates in melted dark chocolate and place them on parchment paper. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a few more peanuts on top for crunch and visual appeal. This decadent version feels like a candy bar upgrade—pure indulgence!

Step 6: Almond Butter and Raspberry

Fill each date with about 1 ½ teaspoons of creamy almond butter, then press a fresh raspberry right into the center of the filling. The combination of tangy raspberry and smooth, nutty almond butter creates a fresh, fruity bite that’s both pretty and delicious.

Step 7: Chunky Monkey (Banana, Peanut Butter, and Chocolate)

Stuff dates with a teaspoon of peanut butter, then nestle a thin slice of banana inside. Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top for the finishing touch. Inspired by the classic banana-peanut butter-chocolate trio, this version is creamy, sweet, and utterly satisfying.

How to Serve Stuffed Dates (6 Ways!) Recipe

The image shows a round white plate filled with dark brown dates, each stuffed with different toppings. Some dates have a creamy beige filling, topped with bright red raspberries; others are filled with white cream and garnished with red dried fruit strips or small pecans and green herb sprigs. A few dates are topped with crushed light brown nuts on the creamy filling. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, with scattered pecans around it, creating a rustic and textured look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finished stuffed dates are a blank canvas for beautiful garnishes. Crushed nuts, extra drizzles of honey or chocolate, fresh herbs like rosemary or basil, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt all add that extra WOW factor. Garnishes not only elevate appearance but also enhance texture and flavor highlights.

Side Dishes

Serve these stuffed dates alongside light salads, cheese boards, or charcuterie platters to create an enticing spread. Their sweet and savory profiles pair especially well with crisp greens, olives, and cured meats, offering guests a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging assortments on slate trays or wooden boards for a rustic yet chic vibe. For parties, present each flavor in small individual ramekins or on mini spoons to make grabbing and tasting easy. You can also thread dates on skewers intermixed with nuts or fresh herbs for eye-catching bites that scream party-ready!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, no worries: transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent sticking, separate layers with parchment or wax paper. This way, your stuffed dates stay fresh and ready for snacking or entertaining later.

Freezing

Freezing stuffed dates is not typically recommended, especially those with fresh fruit or creamy cheeses, because texture may suffer. However, if you feel adventurous, freeze the dates unstuffed and pit them; then, thaw and stuff just before serving for best results.

Reheating

When you want to enjoy warm dates, especially the goat cheese or brie varieties, heat them gently in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until the cheese softens and melds with the sweet fruit. Avoid reheating chocolate-covered dates as the chocolate may become messy or lose its shine.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates?

Medjool dates are ideal due to their size and soft texture, which make them easy to stuff. However, you can experiment with other soft dates, just ensure they’re pliable and pitted before stuffing for the best results.

Are these stuffed dates suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The sweet versions with nut butters and fruit are especially kid-friendly, though be mindful of small nuts that might pose a choking risk for very young children.

Can I prepare these in advance for a party?

Yes! Most stuffed dates can be assembled several hours ahead and refrigerated until serving. Just add any melted chocolate drizzles or fresh fruit toppings last minute to keep them looking and tasting perfect.

What if I am allergic to nuts?

You can still enjoy several variations by selecting cheese-based fillings or simply stuffing dates with cream cheese or ricotta and fresh herbs or dried fruit to avoid nuts entirely.

Can I make these vegan?

Definitely. Swap out dairy cheeses for vegan alternatives and use plant-based nut butters and toppings. Just choose a honey substitute like maple syrup to keep all ingredients plant-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Dates (6 Ways!) Recipe proves that quick, simple ingredients can create show-stopping bites worth sharing with friends and family. From savory to sweet, these stuffed dates offer something for everyone’s palate and make every occasion feel a bit more special. Give these flavors a whirl, and I promise they will become a beloved staple in your kitchen, perfect anytime you want to wow with little effort but big taste.