Roasted Stuffed Dates
Tender Medjool dates filled with creamy goat cheese, topped with a fragrant rosemary-walnut mixture, and baked to perfection. Finished with a drizzle of hot honey, this simple yet elegant appetizer is packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making it both nutritious and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for quick snacks or special gatherings.
Equipment
- 1 × 9×9-inch baking pan (or similar size round cake pan or baking sheet)
- 1 × small sharp knife (paring knife recommended)
- 1 × Small mixing bowl
- 1 × spoon
Ingredients
- 12 oz about 24 pitted Medjool dates
- 4 oz goat cheese softened
- ⅓ cup finely chopped walnuts
- 2 tsp minced fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp orange zest from 1 navel orange
- 2 tsp fresh orange juice from 1 navel orange
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Hot honey for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and equipment before starting. This ensures a smooth cooking process and avoids delays while baking. Remove the goat cheese from the refrigerator and allow it to soften at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes. This will make it easier to spread and fill the dates without tearing them. Wash and dry the rosemary before mincing.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat fully. This ensures even baking and helps the stuffed dates develop a rich, golden finish. Arrange your baking pan, cake pan, or baking sheet near your prep area so it’s ready for use.
- Slice and Prepare Dates: Take the pitted Medjool dates and place them on a clean cutting board. Using a small, sharp paring knife, carefully slice each date lengthwise without cutting all the way through — think of creating a pocket rather than completely splitting them. Gently open each date to create space for filling while keeping it intact.
- Stuff the Dates with Goat Cheese: Using a small spoon or your fingers, scoop about 1 to 2 teaspoons of softened goat cheese into each date. Fill them generously but avoid overstuffing to maintain the date’s structure during baking. Smooth the surface gently so the goat cheese is evenly nestled inside.
- Arrange Dates for Baking: Place the stuffed dates evenly spaced in your chosen baking dish — a 9×9-inch pan works best. Ensure they are snug but not crowded, which allows even roasting. This arrangement will ensure every date gets coated nicely with the topping later.
- Prepare Walnut-Rosemary Mixture: In a small mixing bowl, combine finely chopped walnuts, minced fresh rosemary, orange zest, fresh orange juice, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Add the extra-virgin olive oil and stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined. This creates a flavorful topping that complements the sweetness of the dates and richness of the goat cheese.
- Top the Stuffed Dates: Using a spoon, carefully scoop the walnut-rosemary mixture over each stuffed date, ensuring each date gets a generous coating. The topping should cover the cheese-filled opening so it melts into the date during baking, adding layers of flavor and texture.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. During this time, the goat cheese will soften and warm, the dates will caramelize slightly, and the walnut topping will toast beautifully. Keep an eye on the dates to ensure they don’t over-brown — they should be golden but not burnt.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the baked stuffed dates from the oven and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period lets the flavors settle, the cheese firm slightly, and makes handling easier when transferring to a serving platter.
- Add Finishing Touch: Arrange the roasted stuffed dates on a serving plate. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a small amount of hot honey over the dates just before serving. This adds a glossy finish and a warm, sweet kick that elevates the dish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a gourmet appetizer, snack, or part of a brunch spread. These stuffed dates pair beautifully with fresh herbs, wine, or a light salad for a satisfying bite that impresses every time.
Notes
- Choose Medjool dates for their natural sweetness and soft texture, which make them ideal for stuffing.
- Allow the goat cheese to soften to room temperature before filling for easier handling and a creamier texture.
- Mince rosemary finely so the flavor blends smoothly with the walnuts and doesn’t overwhelm the dates.
- Adjust the amount of orange zest and juice according to your taste preference for a citrusy brightness.
- Use hot honey sparingly — it enhances flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the dates.
