Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 Medjool dates, pitted; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 oz goat cheese, crumbled; 1 tbsp honey; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); Sea salt, for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making these cheese stuffed dates for Valentine's Day! They are a delightful combination of sweet and savory, perfect for impressing my loved ones. Each bite offers a burst of flavor and a satisfying texture. I enjoy experimenting with different cheese fillings, and I find that pairing them with warm, soft dates creates a perfect harmony. These snacks are not only easy to prepare but also make for a stunning presentation, ensuring that they’re the highlight of any celebration.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:55:17.161Z

When I first tried cheese stuffed dates, I was instantly hooked by the contrast of flavors and textures. The creamy cheese inside complements the sweetness of the dates perfectly, making them an irresistible snack for gatherings or intimate evenings.

During my experiments, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. It's these little touches that elevate a simple dish into an exquisite treat that all my friends rave about!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect marriage of sweet and savory flavors
A quick and elegant snack for any occasion
Versatile fillings to suit every taste preference

      

Key Ingredients Insights

Selecting the right dates is crucial for this recipe. Medjool dates are ideal due to their natural sweetness and chewy texture, which balances the savory cheese filling. When pitting, make sure to do so gently to avoid damaging the date, as you'll want them to hold up during baking.

Incorporating a mix of cream cheese and goat cheese not only achieves a rich and tangy flavor but also creates a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the dates. Experimenting with the proportion can yield different flavor profiles—less cream cheese will enhance the goat cheese's earthiness, while more will lend a milder flavor.

Baking and Serving Tips

When baking, keep a close eye after about eight minutes to ensure the dates are warm and just starting to become golden. Overbaking will dry them out, so remove them as soon as the edges start to change color. The addition of sea salt at this stage can create a delightful contrast with the sweetness of the dates, elevating the overall flavor experience.

These cheese stuffed dates can be served warm or at room temperature. To impress guests, arrange them on a decorative platter and consider drizzling a little extra honey over the top or adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a pop of color and aroma.

Ingredients

For these delightful cheese stuffed dates, you will need:

Ingredients

12 Medjool dates, pitted
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1 tbsp honey
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Sea salt, for garnish (optional)

Feel free to customize the fillings with your favorite cheeses or nuts!

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, goat cheese, honey, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. You can add chopped nuts if desired for extra crunch.

Stuff the Dates

Take each pitted date and fill it with the cheese mixture using a small spoon or piping bag. Make sure to fill them generously!

Bake the Dates

Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly golden.

Finishing Touches

Remove from oven and sprinkle with sea salt, if using. Allow to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy these scrumptious bites!

These cheese stuffed dates are best enjoyed warm, but also taste great at room temperature!

Pro Tips

Experiment with various cheese combinations and toppings like balsamic glaze or prosciutto. These dates are versatile and can be tailored to your tastes!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, these cheese stuffed dates can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best taste, serve them at room temperature, but if you prefer warm snacks, gently reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about five minutes.

To freeze, I recommend placing the stuffed dates on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing until solid. Then, pack them into a freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for about a month. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the cheese filling based on personal preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, or for a dairy-free version, use nut-based cheeses available in stores. You may also opt for a spicy cheese like pepper jack for an exciting kick.

Additionally, consider folding in chopped dried fruits like apricots or figs into the cheese filling for added sweetness and texture. Combining flavors will create a unique taste experience and make these snacks even more delightful for your Valentine's Day celebration.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use soft cheeses like brie or even blue cheese for a bolder flavor.

→ How do I store the leftover stuffed dates?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff the dates a day in advance and bake them just before serving.

→ What can I serve with stuffed dates?

These delicious treats pair well with a variety of beverages like wine or cocktails, and they make a fantastic addition to any cheese board!