Mediterranean Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
This Mediterranean Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy. The natural caramel flavor of Medjool dates pairs beautifully with the tang of goat cheese, while honey and pistachios add a touch of richness and crunch. Whether served as an elegant appetizer, a light dessert, or part of a mezze spread, these little bites always impress. The roasting step slightly caramelizes the dates and warms the cheese, creating an irresistible flavor contrast that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.
Total Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
12 Medjool dates, pitted
4 oz (115 g) goat cheese, softened
2 tbsp (30 g) honey
2 tbsp (20 g) chopped pistachios or walnuts
Pinch of sea salt
Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Prepare the dates:
Slice each date lengthwise to create a small opening. Remove the pit if not already pitted, and gently widen the cavity to make space for the filling.
Make the filling:
In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with 1 tablespoon of honey and a small pinch of sea salt. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Stuff the dates:
Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each date with about a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture. Press the halves gently back together but don’t close them completely—leave some filling visible.
Roast the dates:
Arrange the stuffed dates on the baking tray. Roast for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly golden and the dates look caramelized.
Finish and garnish:
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of honey over the warm dates. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios or walnuts and add a few thyme leaves or rosemary sprigs if desired.
Serve:
Serve warm or at room temperature. They’re delicious either way.
Tips
Softening goat cheese: If your goat cheese is firm, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing—it will be much easier to blend smoothly.
Don’t over-roast: Dates cook quickly; roasting too long can cause them to burst or burn. Keep a close eye on them after 8 minutes.
Enhance the flavor: Add a tiny drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking for a sweet-tart finish.
Make ahead: You can stuff the dates up to a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake before serving for best results.
Serving suggestion: These pair beautifully with a glass of dry white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon and mint.
Variations
With prosciutto: Wrap each stuffed date with a thin slice of prosciutto before roasting for a salty contrast.
With blue cheese: Swap goat cheese for blue cheese for a bolder, sharper flavor.
Vegan version: Use a plant-based cream cheese or cashew cheese and maple syrup instead of honey.
Nut-free option: Replace pistachios or walnuts with crushed pumpkin seeds or omit them entirely.
Herb twist: Try adding a bit of finely chopped basil or mint inside the cheese mixture for a fresh, aromatic touch.
Q&A
Q: Can I serve these cold?
A: Yes, they taste great chilled, but roasting them enhances the flavor and texture.
Q: What kind of dates work best?
A: Medjool dates are ideal because they’re large, soft, and naturally sweet. Deglet Noor dates are smaller and less sticky, so adjust the filling accordingly.
Q: Can I use flavored goat cheese?
A: Absolutely. Honey, herb, or peppered goat cheese blends add more depth and save prep time.
Q: How long do they last?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the oven before serving.
Nutrition
(per serving, approx. 2 dates)
Calories: 160
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Sugars: 17 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 70 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Roasted Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are small but full of character. The blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty notes makes them a standout appetizer or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner, preparing a romantic meal, or just craving something refined yet simple, these roasted dates deliver the perfect bite of Mediterranean warmth and elegance.