Savoury Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The rich, creamy goat cheese perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the dates, while the addition of herbs and seasonings adds a savory depth to each bite. These stuffed dates are simple to prepare but make an impressive appetizer for parties, gatherings, or as a small snack to enjoy with a glass of mocktails.
I first made these Savoury Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates when I was looking for a unique, easy-to-make appetizer that would stand out. The dates are stuffed with goat cheese, seasoned with a bit of fresh thyme, garlic, and a dash of salt and pepper. After being baked until golden, the dates are warm and oozing with creamy goat cheese, while the dates themselves soften to a perfect sweetness. The combination is irresistible!
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can make these stuffed dates ahead of time and bake them right before serving. For extra flair, drizzle with honey, or add a slice of prosciutto around the date before baking for an extra layer of flavor. Savoury Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a great addition to any appetizer spread!
Perfect for:
- Party appetizers
- Holiday gatherings
- Elegant snacks
- Cheese lovers
- Quick, savory bites
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why these Savoury Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates will become your go-to snack:
- Delicious Flavor Contrast: The sweet dates pair perfectly with the tangy and creamy goat cheese.
- Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, these stuffed dates come together quickly.
- Elegant Presentation: Their unique appearance makes them a standout dish for any occasion.
- Great for Entertaining: A bite-sized treat that’s perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.
- Versatile: You can adjust the fillings to suit your preferences, from adding herbs to nuts.
- Healthy Option: Dates are naturally sweet and packed with nutrients, while goat cheese provides a creamy indulgence without being overly heavy.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can stuff and refrigerate the dates in advance, making them easy to serve last minute.
- Customizable: Add extras like prosciutto or a drizzle of honey to create different flavor profiles.
- No Cooking Required: These are ideal for when you need a no-cook appetizer.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the sweet and savory combo in these stuffed dates.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Servings: 12 servings (about 24 stuffed dates)
- Calories per serving: Approximately 120-130 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 19g, Fat: 6g
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Dates:
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts (optional)
Optional Garnishes:
- Prosciutto slices
- Fresh basil or mint leaves
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze
Ingredient Highlights
- Medjool Dates: Known for their rich, caramel-like sweetness, these dates create a soft base for the filling.
- Goat Cheese: Offers a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the dates.
- Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory notes of the goat cheese.
- Fresh Herbs: Thyme or rosemary provide an aromatic note to enhance the flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dates:
- Prep Dates: Slice each Medjool date lengthwise and remove the pit.
- Stuff with Goat Cheese: Fill the hollow of each date with a generous amount of goat cheese, pressing gently to fit it in.
- Add Honey and Herbs: Drizzle a small amount of honey over the goat cheese and sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary.
- Optional Nutty Touch: If using, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the cheese for a crunchy texture.
Garnish and Serve:
- Wrap with Prosciutto (Optional): For a savory twist, wrap each stuffed date with a small slice of prosciutto.
- Serve: Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter and drizzle with a little extra honey or balsamic glaze for an elegant finish.
How to Serve
Here are 9 ways to serve Savoury Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates:
- As an Appetizer: Serve at dinner parties or gatherings to impress your guests.
- On a Cheese Board: Add to your cheese platter for a unique and flavorful addition.
- For a Mocktail Party: Serve as a light bite with mocktails.
- With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with additional fresh thyme or basil for a burst of color and flavor.
- As a Snack: Enjoy as a satisfying snack between meals.
- With Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a savory side.
- For Special Occasions: Perfect for serving on holidays like Thanksgiving or New Year’s Eve.
- With a Sweet Drizzle: Add a touch of sweetness with a drizzle of honey or balsamic reduction.
- As a Picnic Snack: These stuffed dates are easy to pack and enjoy on the go.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Dates: For the best flavor, use fresh Medjool dates that are soft and moist.
- Soften the Goat Cheese: Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature before stuffing the dates for easier filling.
- Balance Sweetness and Savory: Adjust the amount of honey depending on how sweet you prefer the dates.
- Optional Protein Boost: Wrap the stuffed dates in prosciutto or beef bacon for an added savory crunch.
- Chill Before Serving: If you’re preparing the dates ahead of time, chill them for 30 minutes before serving to help the cheese set.
Recipe Variations
- Beef Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Wrap the stuffed dates in beef bacon and bake for a crispy, savory finish.
- Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates: Swap out goat cheese for blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based cheese in place of goat cheese for a vegan-friendly option.
- With Almonds: Add toasted almonds inside the dates along with the goat cheese for extra crunch.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the honey drizzle for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Pistachio Stuffed Dates: Substitute walnuts for pistachios for a different nutty texture.
Special Equipment
- Paring Knife – For slicing open the dates and removing pits.
- Small Spoon or Teaspoon – For scooping and stuffing the goat cheese into the dates.
- Pastry Bag – For a cleaner, more precise way to pipe the goat cheese into the dates.
- Parchment Paper – To line the baking tray and prevent the dates from sticking.
- Baking Sheet – For roasting the stuffed dates in the oven.
- Toothpicks – To secure bacon-wrapped dates or for serving individual pieces.
- Mixing Bowl – For mixing the goat cheese with herbs or other ingredients.
- Herb Scissors – For finely chopping fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Small Ice Cream Scoop – For evenly portioning the goat cheese when stuffing the dates.
- Oven Mitts – For safely handling hot trays or pans when roasting.
FAQ Section
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, cream cheese or ricotta can be used in place of goat cheese for a milder flavor. - How long can I store these stuffed dates?
These stuffed dates can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze the stuffed dates?
It’s not recommended to freeze stuffed dates, as the texture of the dates may change once thawed. - How can I make these dates spicier?
Add a touch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the goat cheese for a spicy kick. - Can I prepare these dates in advance?
Yes, you can stuff and refrigerate the dates up to 24 hours in advance. - Can I use a different type of date?
Medjool dates are the best for this recipe due to their size and sweetness, but you can use other types if needed. - Can I add a glaze to these dates?
A balsamic glaze or a honey reduction is a great way to enhance the flavor. - Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free cheese option like cashew cheese for a dairy-free version. - How can I keep the goat cheese from spilling out?
Gently press the cheese into the date to ensure it stays in place and doesn’t spill out.
Conclusion
Savory Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are a delightful, sophisticated appetizer that combines the sweet richness of dates with the creamy, tangy flavor of goat cheese. These little bites are stuffed with goat cheese and often seasoned with herbs, offering the perfect balance of sweet and savory. They’re easy to prepare, yet impressive enough for any party or special occasion.
The magic of this recipe is in the contrast between the natural sweetness of the dates and the creamy, slightly tangy goat cheese filling. You can even add extra touches like toasted nuts, herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), or a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of flavor. These stuffed dates are simple to assemble, making them a great option for last-minute entertaining.
I’d love to see your Savory Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious appetizers. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own with extra fillings or toppings!