Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 12 large Medjool dates; 4 oz cream cheese (or goat cheese); 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional); 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional); Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for garnish; Fresh herbs (such as parsley or mint) for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love serving these Cheese Stuffed Dates during Valentine’s Day celebrations. Not only are they simple to make, but they also combine the sweetness of dates with creamy cheese, offering a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. I often prepare them ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This finger food is the perfect way to impress guests or share a romantic treat with that special someone. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find it a must-have for your menu!

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:46:11.136Z

When I first experimented with Cheese Stuffed Dates, I wasn't sure how the savory and sweet would play together. But I was pleasantly surprised! The combination of cream cheese or goat cheese with the sweetness of the dates is a match made in culinary heaven. One key tip I learned was to use soft cheese, which makes the stuffing process a breeze.

Another discovery was incorporating different herbs and spices into the cheese, which adds an unexpected kick. My favorites are a sprinkle of cinnamon or a hint of smoked paprika. This little twist elevates the flavor profile and makes every bite memorable!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet dates perfectly complemented by creamy cheese
Quick and effortless to prepare for any occasion
A charming and elegant snack that impresses guests

      

Choosing the Right Dates

For this recipe, Medjool dates are the best choice due to their large size and naturally sweet flavor, which pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheese. When selecting dates, look for those that feel plump and slightly sticky; this indicates they are fresh. Avoid any that are overly dry or have hard spots, as these can compromise the texture of your snack.

If you can't find Medjool dates, you can substitute with Deglet Noor dates, which are smaller and less sweet. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount of cheese filling, as these dates won't hold as much. Ensure you taste the dates before stuffing to balance the flavor with your choice of cheese.

Cheese Selection and Texture

The choice of cheese significantly impacts the flavor and texture of your stuffed dates. Cream cheese offers a mild, creamy richness that blends seamlessly with the dates, making it a great starting point. For a more tangy variation, goat cheese adds a unique flavor profile and a slightly crumbly texture, which contrasts well with the smoothness of the dates. Consider trying herbed variations of these cheeses for added depth.

When mixing the cheese, take care not to overmix if you're using goat cheese, as you want to maintain some texture. If you prefer a softer consistency for easier stuffing, allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using it. This will yield a smoother filling that is easier to work with.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Cheese Stuffed Dates:

Ingredients

12 large Medjool dates
4 oz cream cheese (or goat cheese)
1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for garnish
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or mint) for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the steps for making this delicious snack!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Cheese Stuffed Dates:

Prep the Dates

Slice the dates lengthwise along one side and remove the pits. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

Stuff the Dates

In a mixing bowl, combine the cheese with cinnamon or smoked paprika if using. Stuff each date with the cheese mixture using a small spoon or your fingers.

Garnish and Serve

Place the stuffed dates on a serving platter. Top with chopped nuts and fresh herbs for a touch of color and flavor.

Your Cheese Stuffed Dates are now ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful treat with family and friends.

Pro Tips

For an even more luxurious treat, try drizzling some balsamic glaze over the top before serving!

Make-Ahead Tips

These cheese stuffed dates can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. After stuffing the dates, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld nicely, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to garnish with nuts and fresh herbs right before serving for that appealing crunch and vibrant color.

If you're planning to serve a large gathering, consider doubling the recipe. This can be done easily, but ensure you have enough serving space and presentation platters to showcase them beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your presentation, serve these stuffed dates alongside a variety of olives and crackers. This not only adds visual interest but also provides complementary flavors that enhance the snacking experience. A drizzle of honey can also be offered on the side for those who enjoy a little extra sweetness.

For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for a subtle kick. Pairing the stuffed dates with a glass of red wine could also bring out the flavors, making your Valentine’s celebration even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Cheese Stuffed Dates ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance. Store in the fridge until you are ready to serve.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cream cheese is a favorite for its smooth texture, but goat cheese adds a lovely tangy flavor.

→ Can I add bacon to this recipe?

Absolutely! Wrapping the stuffed dates with bacon before baking will give them a delicious savory twist.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.