Brie stuffed dates are a tasty treat that combines sweet and creamy flavors. Each date is filled with soft brie cheese, making them a delightful bite to share.
These little snacks are so easy to make and always impress friends! I love to wrap them in bacon before baking for an extra crunch—who can resist that combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are large, soft, and sweet dates, perfect for stuffing. If you can’t find Medjool dates, try Deglet Noor dates; they’ll be firmer but still taste great. Just make sure they’re pitted!
Brie Cheese: Soft and creamy brie is a classic choice. If you’re looking for a lighter option, goat cheese or cream cheese can also work well. They’ll change up the flavor, but it’ll still be delicious!
Nuts: I enjoy using walnuts for added crunch, but pecans are equally tasty. If you need a nut-free version, consider sunflower seeds or even crispy fried onions for a different texture.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a nice burst of color and flavor. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro or chives can also bring freshness to the dish.
How Can I Make the Perfect Stuffed Dates?
Getting the dates stuffed just right is key to a successful appetizer. Here’s how to do it and ensure a delicious result:
- When slicing the dates, be gentle to keep them intact. A sharp knife helps with this.
- To make filling easier, soften the brie ahead of time by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Don’t skip toasting the nuts. This simple step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- For added flavor, try mixing a bit of herbs or spices into the brie before stuffing. A sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of chili flakes can give an unexpected twist!
- If you’re warming them, watch closely so the brie doesn’t melt too much; you just want it soft and gooey.
Enjoy making these tasty treats!
Brie Stuffed Dates
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz (115g) Brie cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: honey for drizzling
- Optional: fresh ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you choose to warm the dates in the oven, add an additional 5 minutes. So within just 20 minutes, you can have these delightful treats ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dates:
Start by carefully slicing each Medjool date lengthwise on one side, making sure to remove the pit. Be gentle; the goal is to keep the date intact for easy stuffing!
2. Stuff with Brie:
Next, grab your softened Brie cheese. Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each open date with about a teaspoon of Brie. You want them generously filled but not overflowing!
3. Add Nuts:
Sprinkle a small handful of toasted chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cheese-filled dates. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor!
4. Fresh Herb Touch:
Take the fresh parsley and sprinkle it evenly over the stuffed dates. This will give them a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the flavors.
5. Optional Drizzle:
If you want to add a sweet touch, drizzle a little honey over the top of each date. You can also add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper if you’re looking for a slight kick!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter and enjoy them right away at room temperature. If you’d like, you can also place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to warm them up and make the cheese extra gooey. Either way, they’re sure to be a hit!
Enjoy these sweet, creamy, and crunchy bites as the perfect appetizer or snack at your next gathering!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you want a different flavor, try using goat cheese, cream cheese, or even a blue cheese for a bolder taste. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Dates?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or gently reheat them in the oven or microwave until the cheese is warm.
Can I Prepare These in Advance?
Yes! You can stuff the dates a few hours before serving. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. If you’re warming them, just pop them in the oven right before serving!
Is There a Vegan Option for This Recipe?
Definitely! You can substitute the Brie with a vegan cheese or nut-based cheese. Make sure to also use a nut or seed butter if you want a creamy filling, which can be delicious as well.
