Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipes for Appetizers and Snacks

Welcome to our delicious blog post where we’re going to show you how to make an irresistible appetizers: goat cheese stuffed dates!

These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or simply craving a flavorful snack. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to whip up these elegant and delicious appetizers in no time.

Get ready to impress your guests with this delightful combination of sweet Medjool dates and creamy goat cheese.

Let’s dive into the recipes and elevate your appetizer game!

Dates vs Medjool Dates

In our recipes we will be using Medjool dates. It is mostly because of their larger size. If for whatever reason you hate medjool dates, then feel free to use smaller and less sweet dates.

“Dates” and “Medjool dates” both refer to types of fruit, but there are differences between them:

Dates:

• “Dates” is a broad term that encompasses various varieties of the fruit.
• Dates are typically elongated, oval-shaped fruits with a single seed inside.
• There are several types of dates, including Deglet Noor, Zahidi, and Khadrawy, among others.
• Dates are grown in many regions around the world, including the Middle East, North Africa, and California.
• They vary in size, texture, and flavor depending on the variety and where they are grown.

Medjool Dates:

• Medjool dates are a specific variety of dates known for their large size, soft texture, and rich flavor.
• They are often referred to as the “king of dates” due to their superior quality and taste.
• Medjool dates are native to Morocco but are also grown in other regions with a similar climate, such as the Coachella Valley in California.
• These dates are larger and plumper than other varieties, with a caramel-like sweetness and a chewy texture.
• Medjool dates are commonly used as a natural sweetener in recipes, as a snack, or as a stuffing for appetizers.

So while “dates” is a broader category encompassing various types of the fruit, “Medjool dates” specifically refer to a premium variety known for their size, flavor, and texture.

If you decide to substitute one type of dates with another – nothing bad will happened. You will end up with a delicious appetizer regardless what type of fruit you decide to use.

Recipe 1: Honey and Walnut Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

Ingredients:

• 12 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 4 ounces (about 113 grams) goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dates: Using a sharp knife, carefully make a lengthwise slit in each date to remove the pit, creating a cavity for the filling. Be sure not to cut all the way through the date. Gently open each date to create a pocket for the filling.

1. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese and honey until well combined. Stir in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
2. Stuff the Dates: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each date with a small amount of the goat cheese mixture. Press the filling gently into the cavity of each date.
3. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves over the stuffed dates for a pop of color and added flavor.
4. Serve: Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter and serve as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering.

Recipe 2: Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

Ingredients:

• 12 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 4 ounces (about 113 grams) goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dates:
   • Using a sharp knife, carefully make a lengthwise slit in each date to remove the pit, creating a pocket for the filling. Be sure not to cut all the way through the date.
   • Gently open each date to create a cavity for the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
   • Stir in the finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff the Dates:
   • Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each date with a small amount of the herbed goat cheese mixture, pressing it gently into the cavity.
   • Be careful not to overfill the dates, as the filling may ooze out during serving.
4. Serve:
   • Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter and serve immediately.
   • These herbed goat cheese stuffed dates are bursting with savory flavor from the fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon zest. They make a delicious appetizer for any occasion and are sure to impress your guests with their sophisticated taste!

Recipe 3: Bacon-Wrapped Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

Ingredients:

• 12 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 4 ounces (about 113 grams) goat cheese
• 6 slices of bacon, cut in half crosswise
• Toothpicks for securing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dates: Using a sharp knife, carefully make a lengthwise slit in each date to remove the pit, creating a cavity for the filling. Be sure not to cut all the way through the date. Gently open each date to create a pocket for the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese until smooth. Spoon the goat cheese mixture into each pitted date, filling them evenly.
3. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
4. Bake or Air Fry: Place the bacon-wrapped stuffed dates on a baking sheet or in an air fryer basket. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, until the bacon is crispy.
5. Serve: Remove the toothpicks from the bacon-wrapped goat cheese stuffed dates before serving. Arrange them on a platter and enjoy this savory and indulgent appetizer at your next gathering.

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Coat cheese stuffed dates offer a versatile and delicious option for both appetizers and snacks. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a flavorful treat, these recipes are sure to impress. With their irresistible combination of sweet dates and creamy goat cheese, they’re bound to become a favorite on your menu. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and flavors to create your perfect bite-sized indulgence!