Indulge your taste buds with these delightful Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates! This simple yet sophisticated recipe combines sweet, creamy, and nutty flavors into an elegant bite-sized treat. Ideal for any occasion, these stuffed dates are unbelievably versatile; they work beautifully as an appetizer at your next gathering, a sweet treat during the festive season, or even as a fancy dessert. From the moment you pop one of these heavenly morsels in your mouth, you’ll be greeted with a burst of flavors, bringing together the richness of cream cheese, the sweetness of honey, the tartness of cranberries, and the crunch of pecans. This dish doesn’t just satisfy your cravings but also impresses those who are lucky enough to enjoy them.
What makes these Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates truly special is their balance of texture and flavor. The Medjool dates offer a luscious caramel-like softness that perfectly contrasts with the creamy filling, while the pecans add a delightful crunch. The hint of honey and vanilla extract rounds out the taste, making every bite memorable. Plus, preparing these stuffed dates is a breeze! In just under half an hour, you can create a scrumptious snack that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates
- Perfect Balance: The creamy cheese combined with the sweet dates and tangy cranberries creates a mouthwatering flavor combination.
- Quick and Easy: Requires minimal effort and time, making it an ideal choice even for unexpected guests.
- Versatile Snack: Enjoy it as an appetizer, dessert, or even a sweet snack to satisfy your cravings.
- Healthy Indulgence: Offers nutritional benefits from the nuts and dried fruit while keeping a decadent feel.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making these delicious Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier and prevent the dates from sticking. The only tools you truly need are a mixing bowl, a small spoon or piping bag for stuffing the dates, and a sharp knife for slicing them open. If you’d like to make serving easier, consider using a baking dish that showcases your stuffed dates beautifully. Having everything on hand will ensure that your culinary adventure flows smoothly and is fun!
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the environment is ready when it’s time to bake your stuffed dates. Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper is crucial as it prevents the dates from sticking and simplifies the cleaning process after cooking.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture together until smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated. This creamy mixture is the star of your dish, providing the rich flavor and delicious texture that complements the sweetness of the dates.
Step 3: Prepare the Dates
With your filling ready, it’s time to prepare the Medjool dates. Carefully slice each date lengthwise, creating a small pocket. Be cautious not to cut all the way through; you want to maintain the structure of each date. This pocket is where you’ll add your delectable cream cheese filling.
Step 4: Stuff the Dates
Utilizing a small spoon or piping bag, generously fill each cut date with your cream cheese mixture. Make sure to fill them nicely, as this will be the highlight of each bite! Once all your dates are stuffed, arrange them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they have room to breathe while roasting.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the dates are warmed through, and the cream cheese begins to soften. This short baking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully without losing the delightful texture of the dates. Let the stuffed dates cool for a few minutes before serving — they are delicious warm or at room temperature!
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding crumbled bacon for a salty touch, or try swapping out the pecans for walnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: For added flavor, experiment by including some finely chopped chives or green onions in the cream cheese mixture.
- Spices: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a unique twist that brings warmth and complexity to the dish.
Cooking Notes
- Always use fresh Medjool dates; they should feel soft to the touch and slightly sticky.
- Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for a short while to ensure easy mixing.
- Experiment with different nuts for stuffing; each nut variety brings a different flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a delightful appetizer at gatherings, perhaps paired with a glass of sweet wine.
- Arrange on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and olives for an enticing platter.
Tips
- To enhance sweetness, drizzle a little extra honey on top before serving.
- Feel free to prepare the filling ahead of time; just refrigerate it until you’re ready to stuff the dates.
- For a unique presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs or additional nuts on top.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 120 (per serving, approx. 2 stuffed dates)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
FAQs
Can I make these stuffed dates ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and stuff the dates ahead of time. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Both work well to deliver creaminess.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for 3-5 days, although they are best enjoyed fresh.
Can I freeze the stuffed dates?
While it’s possible to freeze them, the texture may change upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or store them in the fridge for a couple of days.
Conclusion
In summary, Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates are not only a delicious treat but also a versatile one. Perfect for any gathering, holiday celebration, or simply enjoying as a sweet snack at home, these stuffed dates are guaranteed to please everyone at the table. They’re quick to prepare and require minimal ingredients, making them approachable for cooks of all experience levels. As you indulge in these creamy, nutty bites of delight, don’t forget to share your experience! Encourage your friends and family to try making their variations or serve these enticing morsels at their gatherings. Your culinary journey with these tasty stuffed dates is just the beginning of all the wonderful flavors awaiting you!
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Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge your taste buds with these delightful Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates!
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Carefully slice each date lengthwise, creating a small pocket.
- Utilizing a small spoon or piping bag, generously fill each cut date with your cream cheese mixture.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes.
Notes
Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Protein: 3 g