Indulgent Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe

Tasty Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe: Sweet Treats Made Simple

These delectable roasted stuffed dates blend sweet and savory flavors into an irresistible appetizer that sparks instant conversation.

Plump, juicy dates become the perfect canvas for an array of delicious fillings that surprise and delight guests.

Each bite combines rich, caramelized sweetness with creamy or salty centers that dance across your palate.

Wrapped in crispy bacon or stuffed with tangy blue cheese, these little morsels pack an incredible punch of flavor.

Elegant yet simple, these roasted stuffed dates work brilliantly as a party snack or sophisticated starter.

Minimal ingredients and quick preparation make this recipe a go-to solution for effortless entertaining.

You’ll want to bookmark this crowd-pleasing recipe that transforms ordinary dates into extraordinary bites.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 159 kcal

Servings: 13

Ingredients to Make Roasted Stuffed Dates Sweet and Savory

For Base Ingredients:
  • Medjool Dates: Sweet, chewy foundation that provides natural caramel-like richness and serves as the perfect vessel for stuffing.
  • Goat Cheese: Creamy, tangy soft cheese that adds luxurious texture and balanced flavor to the filling.
For Flavor Enhancers:
  • Walnuts: Crunchy nutty element that introduces delightful texture and earthy undertones.
  • Rosemary: Aromatic herb bringing woodsy, pine-like complexity to elevate the overall taste profile.
  • Orange Zest, Orange Juice: Bright citrus notes that cut through richness and add refreshing dimension.
  • Cinnamon: Warm, sweet spice that complements the dates' natural sweetness.
  • Sea Salt: Essential seasoning that intensifies and balances all other flavors.
For Preparation and Finishing:
  • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Smooth, fruity lubricant for roasting that helps ingredients caramelize beautifully.
  • Hot Honey: Optional glazy drizzle that provides sweet, spicy finish with subtle heat kick.

Tools That Help You Prepare Roasted Stuffed Dates Cleanly

  • Sharp Knife: Essential for carefully slicing dates lengthwise without cutting through completely.
  • Small Bowl: Perfect for mixing walnut topping ingredients together smoothly.
  • Baking Pan: 9×9-inch pan or small baking sheet creates ideal roasting surface for dates.
  • Measuring Spoons: Helpful for accurately adding cheese and measuring topping ingredients.
  • Zester or Grater: Needed to create fine orange zest for walnut mixture.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and combining walnut topping ingredients.
  • Serving Platter: Allows beautiful presentation of roasted stuffed dates after cooking.

Instructions for Filling and Roasting Stuffed Dates

  • Oven Preparation

Warm up the kitchen by setting the oven to a cozy temperature. Find a baking dish that feels just right for these delightful morsels.

  • Date Transformation

Gently open each date like a delicate envelope, creating a soft pocket for a creamy surprise. Nestle a dollop of tangy goat cheese inside each one.

  • Nutty Flavor Boost

Craft a magical topping by mixing crunchy walnuts with aromatic herbs and a hint of citrus. Sprinkle this flavor-packed mixture over the cheese-filled dates with love and care.

  • Roasting Magic

Slide the pan into the heated oven, letting the warmth transform these little treats. Watch as they become golden and irresistible, filling your kitchen with an incredible aroma.

  • Final Touch

After a short rest, transfer the roasted dates to a beautiful serving plate. For an extra spark of excitement, drizzle with a touch of golden honey that adds a sweet and spicy whisper to each bite.

Flavor Combos That Work in Roasted Stuffed Dates

  • Cheese Swap Magic: Replace goat cheese with creamy blue cheese, ricotta, or cream cheese for delightful flavor variations that will surprise your taste buds.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Swap walnuts with toasted pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies or different textural preferences.
  • Make-Ahead Brilliance: Prepare stuffed dates up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. Simply pop them in the oven when ready to serve for an effortless appetizer.
  • Spice Adventure: Experiment with different herb and spice combinations like thyme and black pepper, or add a pinch of smoked paprika for an unexpected flavor twist that elevates the entire dish.
  • Serving Style Upgrade: Transform these roasted dates from an appetizer to a dessert by drizzling with dark chocolate, sprinkling with sea salt, or pairing with a dollop of mascarpone cream for an elegant finish.

Serving Roasted Stuffed Dates at Parties or Dinners

  • Elegant Appetizer Showcase: Arrange these roasted dates on a sleek marble or wooden board for a sophisticated party starter that will impress guests.
  • Wine Pairing Paradise: Match these sweet and savory dates with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Prosecco to enhance the complex flavor profile.
  • Cheese Board Star: Incorporate these roasted dates into a gourmet cheese platter, surrounding them with soft cheeses, nuts, and fresh herbs for a stunning presentation.
  • Brunch Brilliance: Serve these warm dates alongside morning pastries or as a unique topping for yogurt, adding a luxurious touch to weekend breakfast spreads.

Storage Advice for Roasted Stuffed Dates You’ll Love

  • Smart Storage Solutions: Keep leftover roasted dates in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Quick Reheating Technique: Warm the dates gently in a preheated oven at 325ºF for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwave heating to maintain their delicate texture and prevent cheese from becoming rubbery.
  • Advance Prep Strategy: Assemble the stuffed dates up to 24 hours before baking. Cover and refrigerate the prepared pan, then add the walnut topping just before roasting to keep the nuts crisp and fresh.
  • Freezer-Friendly Option: For longer storage, freeze unstuffed dates in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and proceed with stuffing and roasting when ready to serve. This method helps maintain optimal flavor and texture.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Indulgent Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe

Indulgent Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Medjool dates filled with blue cheese and wrapped in crisp bacon create a mouthwatering appetizer perfect for gatherings. Guests will savor each salty-sweet bite of this simple yet elegant Spanish-inspired delicacy you can prepare in minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (12 oz / 340 g) package pitted Medjool dates
  • 1 (4 oz / 113 g) log goat cheese, softened to room temperature
  • ⅓ cup very finely chopped walnuts
  • 2 tsp minced fresh rosemary
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp orange zest plus 2 tsp fresh orange juice (from 1 navel orange)
  • 3 tbsps extra-virgin olive oil
  • Drizzle of hot honey (optional)

Instructions

  1. Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and lightly grease a baking dish to ensure smooth roasting.
  2. Date Preparation: Carefully slice Medjool dates lengthwise, creating a delicate pocket without fully separating them for cheese filling.
  3. Cheese and Walnut Topping: Gently stuff dates with goat cheese, then craft a fragrant mixture by combining chopped walnuts, finely minced rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and olive oil.
  4. Assembly and Roasting: Arrange cheese-filled dates in a single layer, generously coat with the walnut mixture, and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until the topping turns golden and the dates are thoroughly warmed.
  5. Serving: Allow the roasted dates to rest for 5 minutes, then transfer to a serving platter. Optionally, drizzle with hot honey to enhance the dish’s flavor complexity and add a spicy-sweet finish.

Notes

  • Prep Perfectly: Split dates carefully without cutting completely through to create a clean pocket for cheese filling.
  • Cheese Technique: Use soft goat cheese at room temperature for smooth, easy spreading inside dates.
  • Topping Trick: Toast walnuts briefly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and aromatic profile.
  • Serving Suggestion: Allow dates to rest after roasting to let flavors meld and prevent burning your mouth.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 159
  • Sugar: 13 g
  • Sodium: 122 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
Jessica Martin

Jessica Martin

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography​, Seasonal and Local Ingredients​, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine​, Culinary Education​

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Gained hands-on experience in preparing diverse cuisines and understanding flavor profiles

Oregon Culinary Institute

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and dessert presentation. Emphasized creativity and precision in crafting baked goods.​

Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking. 

Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes. 

Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star