Stuffed Dates with Cream Cheese and Nuts

Name: Stuffed Dates with Cream Cheese and Nuts
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 12 Medjool dates, pitted; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Author: Tessa

Published: March 8, 2025

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Stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts have been my go-to appetizer for years, especially when I need something quick, elegant, and utterly delicious. I first stumbled upon this magical combination at a small cafe during a trip abroad, and I was instantly hooked. The way the natural sweetness of the date perfectly complements the tangy cream cheese and the delightful crunch of the nuts creates a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.

It’s truly incredible how just a few simple ingredients can transform into such a sophisticated treat. This recipe isn’t just about putting things together; it’s about creating a moment of culinary joy that feels both indulgent and surprisingly wholesome. Over my many years in the kitchen, I’ve learned that the best recipes are often the simplest ones, and these stuffed dates are a testament to that philosophy. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion, and I can’t wait to share all my tips and tricks for making them absolutely perfect.

Stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts - detail 1

Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Dates with Cream Cheese and Nuts

These stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts aren’t just delicious; they’re incredibly practical and versatile, making them a true kitchen hero. Here’s why you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again:

Effortless Elegance: With minimal prep and no cooking, you get a sophisticated appetizer or dessert in minutes.
Flavor Harmony: The sweet dates, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts create an irresistible sweet-and-savory balance.
Crowd-Pleaser: They disappear quickly at parties and gatherings, appealing to almost everyone.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

The Perfect Stuffed Dates with Cream Cheese and Nuts

The magic of these stuffed dates lies in their unique sweet and savory balance. The rich caramel notes of the Medjool dates perfectly hug the tangy, cool cream cheese filling, while the chopped nuts add a satisfying crunch. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that makes each bite utterly irresistible.

Essential Equipment for Making Stuffed Dates

You won’t need a fancy arsenal of gadgets for these stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts, which is part of their charm! Most of what you need you likely already have in your kitchen. A small mixing bowl is perfect for combining the creamy filling, while a sharp paring knife will make quick work of pitting the dates. A spoon or a piping bag (if you’re feeling fancy) helps get that delicious mixture neatly into each date.

Ingredients for Stuffed Dates with Cream Cheese and Nuts

Making these delightful stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts starts with gathering a few simple, high-quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is that each component plays a starring role in creating the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy. You’ll want to ensure your ingredients are fresh and prepared as described to get the best results. I always say, good ingredients are the foundation of good food!

Gathering Your Stuffed Dates Components

12 Medjool dates: Look for large, plump, and soft Medjool dates, carefully pitted.
4 ounces cream cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese, softened completely to room temperature for easy mixing.
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Finely chopped for the best texture and distribution in the filling.
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Pure honey or 100% maple syrup, optional but adds an extra touch of sweetness.
Pinch of ground cinnamon: Optional, but a little pinch adds a lovely warmth to the filling.

How to Make Stuffed Dates with Cream Cheese and Nuts

Making these stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts is incredibly straightforward, a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. I’ll walk you through each step, ensuring you achieve perfect, bite-sized delights every time. The key is to take your time with each stage, especially when preparing the dates and mixing the filling, to ensure a smooth process and a beautiful end product. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these come together, and trust me, they disappear even faster!

Preparing Your Stuffed Dates

First things first, we need to get those beautiful Medjool dates ready for their creamy filling. Carefully take each date and, using a small, sharp paring knife, make a lengthwise slit down one side. You want to cut just deep enough to expose the pit without cutting the date completely in half. Gently pry the date open and remove the pit. Discard the pits, and set your opened dates aside. They should now resemble little canoes, perfectly shaped to hold our delicious filling.

Crafting the Cream Cheese and Nut Filling

Now for the heart of our stuffed dates: the luscious cream cheese and nut filling. In a small mixing bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, finely chopped pecans or walnuts, the optional honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of ground cinnamon if you’re using it. It’s crucial that your cream cheese is at room temperature; this makes it much easier to mix into a smooth, lump-free consistency. Use a spoon or a small spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. You don’t want any streaks of unmixed cream cheese or large clumps of nuts.

Stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts - detail 2

Assembling Your Delicious Stuffed Dates

With your dates prepared and your filling ready, it’s time for the fun part – assembly! You have a couple of options here. You can use a small spoon to carefully scoop the cream cheese mixture into the cavity of each date. Alternatively, for a neater, more professional look, you can transfer the filling to a piping bag (even a Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off works wonderfully) and pipe the mixture into each date. Fill them generously, but don’t overstuff them to the point where the filling spills out. Arrange your beautifully assembled stuffed dates on a serving platter, and they’re ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Dates with Cream Cheese and Nuts

Achieving truly perfect stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts goes beyond just following the steps; it’s about understanding the nuances of your ingredients and how they interact. I’ve made countless batches over the years, and these little tricks have consistently elevated my dates from good to absolutely divine. From selecting the right dates to thinking about exciting variations, these tips will help you create a treat that will impress everyone.

Making the Best Stuffed Dates

Always start with fresh, plump Medjool dates; their natural softness and caramel-like flavor are essential. Ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature is another non-negotiable – it makes for a smooth, lump-free filling that blends beautifully with the nuts and spices. Don’t rush this step!

Storing and Serving Stuffed Dates

Once you’ve made your delicious stuffed dates, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Arrange any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend letting them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cream cheese to soften slightly, enhancing the overall experience. They make a fantastic elegant appetizer or a delightful, not-too-sweet dessert!

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Dates

I get a lot of questions about these delightful stuffed dates, especially from folks looking to prep ahead or customize them. It’s great to see so much enthusiasm for such a simple yet elegant treat! Here are some of the most common queries I receive, along with my best advice to help you master these cream cheese and nut-filled wonders.

Can I make these stuffed dates ahead of time?

Absolutely! These stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them up to 3 days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I actually find the flavors meld even better after a day or two, making them ideal for entertaining or meal prepping your snacks.

What other nuts can I use in stuffed dates with cream cheese?

While pecans and walnuts are classic choices for these stuffed dates, don’t feel limited! Almonds, pistachios, or even cashews would be delicious. Each nut offers a slightly different flavor and texture profile – almonds are a bit sweeter, pistachios add a vibrant color and distinct taste, and cashews are wonderfully buttery. Experiment and find your favorite combination!

Are these stuffed dates a healthy snack option?

Stuffed dates with cream cheese and nuts can definitely be part of a balanced diet, especially when enjoyed in moderation. Medjool dates offer natural sweetness and fiber, while the nuts provide healthy fats and protein. The cream cheese adds a touch of dairy. While they are a treat, they offer more nutritional value than many processed snacks, making them a satisfying and delicious choice.

Estimated Nutritional Information for Stuffed Dates

Each serving of these stuffed dates (approximately one stuffed date) provides an estimated 80 calories, 4g of fat, 12g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. Please remember that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used and exact portion sizes. They’re a lovely treat to enjoy in moderation!

Share Your Stuffed Dates Experience

I absolutely adore hearing how my recipes turn out for you! If you whip up a batch of these delightful stuffed dates, please come back and leave a comment below. How did you like them? Did you try any fun variations? Don’t forget to rate the recipe too! And if you share your creations on social media, tag me so I can see your beautiful work!