Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 stuffed dates
Ingredients: 12 Medjool dates, pitted; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; Drizzle of honey (optional); Pinch of sea salt; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first tried cheese stuffed dates, I was amazed at how simple yet delightful they are. The sweetness of the dates beautifully contrasts with the creamy cheese filling, making them a perfect snack for any occasion, especially Valentine's Day. I love how easy they are to prepare, and they add a touch of elegance to any platter. Whether you’re hosting a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends, these cheese stuffed dates never fail to impress. Plus, they can be made ahead of time for extra convenience!

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:52:08.075Z

Making cheese stuffed dates brings back wonderful memories of gathering with friends. I remember the first time I had them at a potluck, where everyone was raving about how irresistible they were. The combination of flavors is incredibly satisfying; the creamy cheese meets the honey-like sweetness of the dates in every bite.

One crucial tip I’ve learned is to soak the dates in warm water for a few minutes if they are too dry. This helps soften them and allows for easier stuffing, enhancing the overall taste experience. Trust me, this little tweak can make all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
A quick and elegant appetizer ready in minutes
Easy to customize with your favorite cheese options

      

Perfecting the Cheese Filling

The cream cheese in this recipe provides a luscious base for the filling, making it rich and creamy. It’s essential to ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature; this allows for smoother mixing and easier stuffing of the dates. If you're looking for a lighter variation, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which has a similar flavor profile with less fat content. For a bit more tang, goat cheese can also be a delightful substitute in this filling.

Adding crumbled feta cheese not only enhances the flavor but also provides a slight briny contrast to the sweetness of the dates. When mixing the ingredients, don’t be afraid to taste the filling before stuffing the dates — adjusting with more feta or even a touch of lemon zest can elevate the overall taste!

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These cheese stuffed dates can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. Once stuffed, you can cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before serving. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to regain their creamy texture. This can enhance the flavors and ensure they are at their prime when your guests arrive.

For an added touch of elegance, pair the stuffed dates with a simple balsamic reduction as a dipping sauce, which complements the sweetness and creaminess of the cheese. You can also serve them alongside savory crackers or a cheese board, making for a visually stunning appetizer that’s both appealing and satisfying.

Ingredients

Cheese Stuffed Dates

12 Medjool dates, pitted
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Drizzle of honey (optional)
Pinch of sea salt
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Feel free to adjust the cheese type or add extras like herbs to customize to your liking!

Steps

Prepare the Dates

Start by pitting the dates if they aren't already pitted. Gently cut a slit along one side of each date, being careful not to slice all the way through, creating a pocket for stuffing.

Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, and chopped walnuts until well combined. You can add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors.

Stuff the Dates

Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully stuff each date with the cheese mixture. Make sure they are filled generously for the best taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter. Drizzle with honey if desired and garnish with fresh herbs. Enjoy your elegant snack!

These stuffed dates can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different cheese combinations or add spices for a kick. These stuffed dates also pair well with wine!

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with a variety of nuts in this recipe. Almonds or pecans can serve as excellent alternatives to walnuts, each adding their unique crunch and flavor profile. Additionally, consider adding chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries to the cheese filling for a delightful texture and sweetness contrast, enhancing the entire taste experience of each stuffed date.

If you'd like to incorporate some heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños mixed into the cheese filling can elevate this snack to a whole new level. This combination of sweet, savory, and spicy creates a memorable flavor explosion that can be perfect for adventurous palates!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find the dates are too tough to slice or stuff due to dryness, you can soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes. This will help soften them up making it easier to create pockets for the fillings. After soaking, make sure to dry them well to avoid excess moisture when stuffing.

When pushing the cheese filling into the dates, ensure you don't overstuff them, as they could burst during the serving process. It's better to fill them generously but leave a little space at the opening. This way, they retain their shape and present beautifully on the platter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed dates in advance?

Yes! You can stuff the dates a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to substitute with bleu cheese, goat cheese, or even a nut butter for a different flavor profile.

→ Are these dates gluten-free?

Absolutely! As long as you stick to gluten-free cheese and no added breading, they are a safe snack for gluten-sensitive diets.

→ Can I freeze stuffed dates?

Yes, you can freeze them, but it’s best served fresh. If freezing, wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.