Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are a delicious and elegant appetizer that combines the sweet, rich flavor of dates with the creamy tang of goat cheese. These little bites are perfect for any party or special occasion and are easy to make. The contrast between the sweet dates, creamy cheese, and the optional toppings (like nuts or herbs) creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Here’s how to make Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates:
Ingredients:
- 12 large Medjool dates (pitted)
- 4 oz goat cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like almonds, pecans, or walnuts), toasted (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
- A pinch of sea salt (optional, for contrast)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dates:
- Cut a slit along each date and remove the pit, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- If the dates are large, you can slice them in half, but they should still be able to hold the filling.
2. Stuff the Dates:
- In a small bowl, soften the goat cheese by mixing it with a spoon or a small hand mixer.
- Stuff each date with a generous amount of goat cheese. You can use a small spoon or a piping bag to help fill them neatly.
- If you’d like, drizzle a little honey on top of the goat cheese for added sweetness.
3. Optional Toppings:
- If desired, sprinkle the stuffed dates with toasted chopped nuts for some crunch and flavor.
- You can also garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a touch of elegance and a savory note.
4. Serve:
- Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter and optionally drizzle them with more honey and a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: These stuffed dates can be made a few hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and garnish with nuts and herbs just before serving.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding a bit of crushed garlic, lemon zest, or fresh herbs into the goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Bacon-Wrapped Option: For an extra indulgent touch, you can wrap each stuffed date in a slice of bacon and bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, until the bacon is crispy.
Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and savory, making them an irresistible appetizer for any occasion!