Ingredients
16 Medjool dates, pitted
4 oz goat cheese, softened
2 tbsp cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
1 tbsp honey
Pinch of black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
Optional toppings: chopped pistachios, walnuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix goat cheese, cream cheese (if using), honey, black pepper, and herbs until smooth.
3. Slice dates lengthwise on one side to create an opening and remove pits if not already pitted.
4. Spoon or pipe about 1–2 teaspoons of cheese filling into each date.
5. Arrange stuffed dates on the baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, until warmed and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle lightly with honey or balsamic glaze.
7. Sprinkle with chopped nuts or extra herbs if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Use flavored goat cheese (like honey or herb) for variation.
You can wrap each date in a half slice of prosciutto before baking for a salty bite.
Make ahead tip: Stuff the dates and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance; roast just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 dates
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: stuffed dates appetizer, goat cheese dates, elegant holiday appetizer