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Looking for a simple yet elegant appetizer for your next gathering? These Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are the perfect choice! The combination of sweet Medjool dates and creamy goat cheese, enhanced with walnuts and fresh rosemary, creates a flavor explosion. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for your next fall or holiday gathering!
Servings: 12-15 dates
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
1 (12-oz.) package pitted Medjool dates
1 (4-oz.) log goat cheese
1/3 cup very finely chopped walnuts
2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
A drizzle of honey or hot honey for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Dates: Use a small sharp knife to slice open the dates lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently break open the date, remove the seed and then fill each one with 1 to 2 teaspoons of goat cheese.
Arrange the Dates: Place the stuffed dates on a baking pan, round cake pan, or a baking sheet.
Mix the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, minced rosemary, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and olive oil. Mix well.
Add the Topping: Spoon the walnut mixture generously over the stuffed dates, ensuring each date is well-coated.
Bake: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the dates are warmed through and the walnuts are slightly toasted.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. Drizzle with hot honey for an extra touch of sweetness, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Additional Tips:
Variations: Feel free to swap out walnuts for pecans or add dried cranberries for an extra pop of flavor.
Substitutions: If you don’t have goat cheese, cream cheese or ricotta can work as alternatives.
Common Mistakes: Be careful not to overstuff the dates; a little cheese goes a long way!
Storing Instructions:
Leftovers: Store any leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips: To reheat, place the dates in a warm oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
