This recipe for Easy Mascarpone Stuffed Dates is a sweet treat that’s oh-so-simple! Just pit some juicy dates and fill them with creamy mascarpone cheese for a delightful blend of flavors.
Your friends will think you’re a gourmet chef, but really, it’s just a few quick steps! I love serving these at gatherings; they disappear faster than you can say “yummy!” 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These dates are naturally sweet and chewy. If they’re not available, you can use other soft dates like Deglet Noor, but Medjool has the best flavor and texture for this recipe.
Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy Italian cheese is key for richness. If you can’t find mascarpone, cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream can be a good stand-in to achieve a similar creaminess.
Walnuts: I love using walnuts for a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies or just don’t like them, try using toasted coconut or even granola for a different texture.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness here, but maple syrup can be a nice substitute for a vegan option. If you’re looking for less sweetness, decrease the amount or skip it on top.
How Do I Perfectly Fill Dates Without Making a Mess?
Filling dates can be tricky, but here’s how to do it cleanly:
- After pitting the dates, make a small lengthwise cut without slicing all the way through. This creates the perfect pocket.
- Use a piping bag for the mascarpone mixture; it allows for neat filling without mess. If you don’t have one, a small spoon works too!
- Be gentle but firm when filling to avoid splitting the date.
Remember, messy or not, they’ll taste delicious!
Easy Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts (or pecans)
- 2 tablespoons honey, plus extra for drizzling
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for mascarpone flavor enhancement
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then another 8-10 minutes to bake. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for serving at gatherings or as a sweet treat for yourself!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, you can get everything ready!
2. Prepare the Dates:
Take each pitted date and carefully make a slit lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will create a pocket for your delicious filling.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese with one tablespoon of honey. If you’d like, add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for a delightful flavor boost. Mix until it’s all smooth and creamy.
4. Fill the Dates:
Spoon or pipe the mascarpone mixture into the pocket of each date. Don’t be shy—this is the best part!
5. Top with Nuts:
Sprinkle the finely chopped walnuts (or pecans) over the mascarpone filling in each date. This adds a nice crunch!
6. Bake the Dates:
Arrange the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of honey over the top. Place in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the mascarpone is a bit melted and the nuts are lovely and fragrant.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dates from the oven and let them cool slightly. You can drizzle a touch more honey on top right before serving for extra sweetness!
Enjoy your easy and scrumptious mascarpone stuffed dates as an appetizer, snack, or dessert! They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ about Easy Mascarpone Stuffed Dates
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Mascarpone?
Yes! If you can’t find mascarpone, cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream will provide a similar texture and taste. You can also try ricotta, but it will be less creamy.
How Can I Store Leftover Stuffed Dates?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They taste great chilled, but you can reheat them gently in the oven for a couple of minutes if you prefer them warm!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed dates and refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a minute or two to the baking time if they come out of the fridge cold.
What Can I Replace the Walnuts With?
If you’re allergic to nuts or want a different flavor, you can skip the nuts altogether or substitute with toasted coconut flakes, granola, or even mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist!
