Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 Medjool dates, pitted; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 oz goat cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; Honey for drizzling (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

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I love whipping up a batch of cheese stuffed dates for Valentine’s Day—they're incredibly simple to make and have that perfect sweet-savory balance. Every bite bursts with flavor as the rich cream cheese pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the dates. Plus, their elegant presentation makes them perfect for sharing with loved ones or impressing guests at a romantic dinner. Let me show you how easy it is to prepare this delightful treat that is sure to win hearts!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:21:34.205Z

When I first tried cheese stuffed dates, I was amazed by how much flavor could come from such a simple combination. The idea of stuffing dates with creamy cheese was something I initially hesitated to try, but I’m so glad I did! The combination of textures and flavors creates a unique taste experience that everyone loves.

One tip I discovered is to use a variety of cheeses. Cream cheese gives it a smooth texture, but mixing in goat cheese or blue cheese adds complexity and depth to the flavor. This way, you can customize the dish to suit your palate. Try it, and you might just find a new favorite appetizer!

        Why You Will Love These Cheese Stuffed Dates
        A delightful combination of sweet and savory in every bite
Versatile with different cheese options to suit your tastes
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute plans

      

Crafting the Perfect Filling

Choosing the right blend of cheeses is crucial for achieving that creamy texture and depth of flavor. Cream cheese provides a smooth base, while goat cheese adds a tangy note that complements the sweetness of the dates beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses—like blue cheese for a bolder flavor or mascarpone for a sweeter profile—just remember that you want a balance that won’t overpower the date's natural flavor.

Incorporating chopped walnuts not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the overall taste. Toasting the walnuts for just 5-7 minutes in a dry skillet until they are golden can elevate their flavor even further. If you're aiming for a nut-free version, consider substituting with sunflower seeds or omitting them entirely—the creaminess of the cheeses will still shine through.

Techniques for Stuffing

When cutting the dates, take care to slice them just deep enough to create a pocket. Avoid cutting all the way through, as this will allow the cheese mixture to escape. A small, sharp paring knife works best for this task. If you find it tricky, slightly warming the dates in your hands can make them more pliable and easier to work with.

Using a piping bag or a small spoon to fill the dates can make the process less messy and more efficient. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can create one easily by cutting a small hole in a zip-top bag. After stuffing, press the sides of the dates gently to ensure the filling stays intact, creating a neat presentation that’s sure to impress.

Serving and Storing Tips

These cheese stuffed dates are best served fresh, but they can be made a few hours in advance. If prepping ahead, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To enhance the flavors, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving; this will bring out their natural sweetness, augmenting the experience. I often drizzle honey just before serving for a touch of elegance.

If you're planning to scale up for a larger gathering, this recipe is easily doubled or tripled. Just ensure that you space out the stuffed dates on your serving platter to allow room for everyone to easily grab one. For an added visual appeal, serving on a bed of mixed greens or alongside some cured meats can elevate your appetizer spread.

Ingredients

Cheese Stuffed Dates

12 Medjool dates, pitted
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Honey for drizzling (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize your cheese combination or add toppings as desired!

Instructions

Prepare the dates

Cut each pitted date lengthwise, creating a pocket without cutting through. Set aside.

Mix the cheeses

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, goat cheese, walnuts, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well-blended.

Stuff the dates

Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each date with the cheese mixture. Press gently to secure.

Garnish and serve

Optional: Drizzle honey over the stuffed dates before serving. Arrange on a platter and enjoy!

These stuffed dates can be made a few hours in advance and served at room temperature!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different nuts or dippings to find your favorite flavor combinations. You can also add herbs like rosemary for an extra flavor twist.

Variations to Try

Try adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for a subtle kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the dates. A hint of herbed cheese also works remarkably well; blend in some fresh thyme or rosemary to add freshness and aromatic notes. This can transform a classic recipe into something uniquely yours!

For a Mediterranean twist, you can include a piece of dried apricot or fig in each date before stuffing them. The additional layer of flavor enhances the sweetness and makes the bites even more interesting. Pairing these with a light red wine or a fruity non-alcoholic beverage can create an exquisite tasting experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheese mixture seems too loose and difficult to handle, consider adding a bit more cream cheese to thicken it up. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened, as firmer cheese makes for more manageable stuffing. Sometimes, letting the filled dates sit for a bit in the refrigerator can also help the mixture firm up slightly before serving.

In case you encounter dates that are too dry, a quick soak in warm water for 10-15 minutes can restore some moisture. Just be sure to drain them well before stuffing. Also, if you find yourself with leftover filling, it can easily be spread on crackers or used as a dip for veggies—a delicious way to avoid waste while enjoying every last bite!

Storage and Freezing Options

While these cheese stuffed dates are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in the fridge, where they’ll maintain their flavor for a couple of days. If you want to prepare them further in advance, consider freezing the stuffed dates. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to two months.

To enjoy frozen dates, simply remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. For an exceptional experience, consider warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheeses to soften and the dates to become pleasantly warm and fragrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed dates a few hours ahead of time and leave them at room temperature until you’re ready to serve.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cream cheese is the base, but adding goat cheese or blue cheese provides a wonderful depth of flavor.

→ Can I use any other types of nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even pistachios based on your preference.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Unfortunately, this recipe is not vegan as it contains cheese. However, you could try using a vegan cream cheese alternative.