Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates recipe

The first time I encountered Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates, I was at a holiday party, admittedly a bit skeptical. Dates, with blue cheese? It sounded…unusual. But one bite, and all doubts vanished. The sweet, chewy date, the pungent, creamy blue cheese, the satisfying crunch of a walnut – it was an explosion of textures and flavors, a perfect balance of sweet and savory that completely captivated me. Since then, Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates have become my secret weapon for effortless entertaining. They are incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and always elicit rave reviews. My family, initially hesitant, now clamors for them at every gathering. They’re sophisticated enough for a cocktail party, yet simple enough for a casual weeknight treat. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a quick and impressive appetizer, these Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates are guaranteed to become your new favorite indulgence. They’re naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making them a crowd-pleasing option for diverse dietary needs. Prepare to be amazed by this surprisingly addictive and wonderfully elegant appetizer!

Ingredients

The beauty of Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates lies in its simplicity and the harmonious combination of just a few key ingredients. High-quality dates and flavorful blue cheese are the stars, but optional additions can elevate this appetizer even further. Let’s explore each ingredient and discuss how to choose the best for your Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates.

For the Stuffed Dates:

• 1 pound Medjool Dates (about 20-24 dates): Medjool dates are the gold standard for stuffing. They are large, plump, and incredibly soft and chewy with a rich, caramel-like sweetness. Their size makes them easy to stuff, and their natural sweetness perfectly complements the bold flavor of blue cheese. Look for Medjool dates that are soft and slightly sticky, not dry or hard. If your dates seem a bit dry, you can gently steam them for a few minutes to soften them up. While Medjool dates are preferred, you can also use Deglet Noor dates if Medjool dates are unavailable. Deglet Noor dates are smaller and slightly less sweet, but they still work well. You might need to use more Deglet Noor dates to get the same yield and they might be slightly less juicy.
• 4 ounces Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or Stilton): Blue cheese is the savory, pungent counterpoint to the dates’ sweetness, creating the irresistible sweet and savory profile of this appetizer. The type of blue cheese you choose will significantly impact the final flavor.
  • Gorgonzola: A creamy Italian blue cheese, Gorgonzola Dolce (sweet) is milder and creamier, while Gorgonzola Piccante (spicy) is stronger and more crumbly. Dolce is a great starting point if you are new to blue cheese or prefer a less intense flavor.
  • Roquefort: A French blue cheese made from sheep’s milk, Roquefort is known for its sharp, salty, and peppery flavor. It’s a bolder choice for blue cheese lovers who enjoy a more pronounced taste.
  • Stilton: An English blue cheese, Stilton is rich, creamy, and nutty with a complex flavor profile. It offers a balance of sharpness and creaminess and is a popular choice for stuffed dates.
  • Other Blue Cheeses: You can also experiment with other blue cheeses like Danish Blue, or domestic blue cheeses. Choose a blue cheese that you enjoy the flavor of, keeping in mind that stronger blue cheeses will create a more intense flavor contrast with the dates. For easier stuffing, choose a blue cheese that is relatively soft or easily crumbles.

Optional Additions (for enhanced flavor and texture):

• ½ cup Walnuts, Pecans, or Almonds (toasted and roughly chopped): Nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements both the dates and blue cheese. Walnuts are a classic pairing, offering a slightly bitter and earthy note. Pecans provide a sweeter and buttery flavor. Almonds offer a milder, slightly sweet and crunchy texture. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and crispness. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Roughly chopping the nuts makes them easier to sprinkle and provides a pleasant textural element.
• 2 tablespoons Honey (optional, for extra sweetness and glaze): A drizzle of honey adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful glaze to the stuffed dates. It enhances the natural sweetness of the dates and complements the savory blue cheese. Choose a good quality honey, such as wildflower, clover, or acacia honey. You can drizzle the honey over the stuffed dates just before serving.
• Balsamic Glaze (optional, for tangy sweetness and visual appeal): Balsamic glaze, also known as balsamic reduction, adds a tangy sweetness and a glossy finish to the stuffed dates. It provides a complex flavor dimension that complements the dates and blue cheese beautifully. You can buy pre-made balsamic glaze or easily make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it reduces and thickens into a syrupy glaze. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sophisticated touch and visual appeal.
• Fresh Rosemary Sprigs (optional, for herbaceous aroma and garnish): Fresh rosemary sprigs, used as a garnish, add a fragrant herbaceous aroma and a pop of fresh green color. Rosemary pairs well with both dates and blue cheese, adding a subtle earthy and piney note. Small sprigs of fresh rosemary can be inserted into the stuffed dates as a beautiful and aromatic garnish.

Instructions

Creating Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates is incredibly simple and quick, making them the perfect last-minute appetizer. Follow these easy step-by-step instructions to assemble and serve these delightful sweet and savory bites.

Step 1: Prepare the Dates (5 minutes)

1. Slice Dates Lengthwise: Using a small, sharp knife, make a lengthwise slit down the center of each Medjool date, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2. Remove Pits: Gently open the slit and remove the pit from each date. Discard the pits. You should be left with date “pockets” ready for stuffing.

Step 2: Stuff the Dates (10 minutes)

1. Fill Dates with Blue Cheese: Crumble the blue cheese into small pieces. Take a small amount of crumbled blue cheese (about ½ to 1 teaspoon, depending on the size of the date) and gently stuff it into the cavity of each date. Don’t overstuff, just fill the cavity generously.
2. Press Gently to Close: Gently press the sides of the date together to partially close the opening,encapsulating the blue cheese. The date should still be slightly open to showcase the filling.

Step 3: Add Optional Toppings (5 minutes)

1. Add Toasted Nuts (Optional): If using toasted nuts, sprinkle the roughly chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds over the stuffed dates. Press them lightly into the blue cheese to help them adhere.
2. Drizzle with Honey (Optional): If using honey, lightly drizzle honey over the stuffed dates. Use a delicate drizzle to enhance sweetness without making them overly sugary.
3. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze (Optional): If using balsamic glaze, lightly drizzle balsamic glaze over the stuffed dates. A small amount of balsamic glaze goes a long way in adding tangy sweetness and visual appeal.
4. Garnish with Rosemary (Optional): If using fresh rosemary, insert a small sprig of fresh rosemary into the center of each stuffed date as a garnish.

Step 4: Serve (Immediately or Chilled)

1. Arrange on Serving Platter: Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter. They can be served immediately at room temperature, or chilled for later.
2. Chill (Optional): For chilled stuffed dates, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to allow the blue cheese to firm up slightly and the flavors to meld. Chilling also makes them easier to handle.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy flavors!

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated Nutrition Facts per Serving – assuming 2 stuffed dates per serving, using Medjool dates and Gorgonzola cheese. Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Serving Size: 2 Stuffed Dates
Servings Per Recipe: 10-12 (depending on number of dates)

Approximate Nutritional Information per Serving (without nuts, honey, or balsamic glaze):

• Calories: 150-200 kcal
• Protein: 3-5g
• Fat: 8-12g (varies depending on blue cheese fat content)
  • Saturated Fat: 5-8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3-4g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
  • Sugars: 18-22g (naturally occurring sugars in dates)
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sodium: 150-250mg (varies depending on blue cheese salt content)

Approximate Nutritional Information per Serving (with walnuts, honey, and balsamic glaze):

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Protein: 4-6g
• Fat: 12-16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6-9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6-7g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
  • Sugars: 22-26g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sodium: 150-250mg

Important Note: This nutritional information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on the specific type of dates and blue cheese used, portion sizes, and any optional additions like nuts, honey, or balsamic glaze. For more accurate nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and amounts you use. Dates are naturally high in sugar, but they are also a good source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Blue cheese provides calcium and protein but is also higher in fat and sodium.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes date preparation, stuffing, and optional toppings)
• Chill Time (Optional): 30 minutes (for chilled stuffed dates)
• Total Time: Approximately 20-50 minutes (depending on chilling)

How to Serve

Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates are incredibly versatile and can be served in various settings, from casual gatherings to elegant parties. Their sweet and savory profile makes them a perfect appetizer or snack. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates:

Appetizer for Parties and Gatherings:

• Cocktail Parties: Ideal for cocktail parties, holiday gatherings, and wine tastings. They are sophisticated, easy to eat standing up, and pair well with a variety of drinks.
• Holiday Appetizer: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and other holiday celebrations. Their festive flavors and elegant presentation make them a crowd-pleasing addition to holiday menus.
• Game Day or Casual Get-Togethers: While elegant, they are also simple enough for more casual events like game day parties or casual get-togethers with friends.

Serving Styles and Presentation:

• Room Temperature or Chilled: Serve them at room temperature for maximum flavor of the blue cheese, or chilled for a firmer texture and refreshing bite, especially in warmer weather.
• Elegant Platter: Arrange them artfully on a platter. Use a tiered platter for a more dramatic presentation. Garnish the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs, extra nuts, or a small bowl of honey or balsamic glaze for dipping or drizzling.
• Individual Servings: For a more formal setting, you can plate them in individual appetizer dishes or spoons.
• Toothpicks or Skewers: Insert toothpicks or small skewers into each date for easier handling, especially at parties where guests are mingling.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Wine:
  • Port Wine: A classic pairing with blue cheese and dates. The sweetness of Port complements the saltiness and pungency of blue cheese.
  • Sweet White Wines: Off-dry Riesling, Gewürztraminer, or Moscato d’Asti provide a lovely sweetness that balances the savory blue cheese.
  • Dry Red Wines (lighter-bodied): Pinot Noir or Beaujolais can also pair well, offering a lighter red wine option that doesn’t overpower the delicate flavors.
• Cocktails:
  • Martini (Dry or Dirty): The crispness of a martini can cut through the richness of the dates and blue cheese.
  • Manhattan: The boldness of a Manhattan can stand up to the strong flavors.
  • Sparkling Wine Cocktails: A French 75 or a Champagne cocktail provides a festive and celebratory pairing.
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages:
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon or Lime: A refreshing and palate-cleansing option.
  • Iced Tea (Unsweetened): The tannins in iced tea can balance the sweetness of the dates.
  • Apple Cider (Sparkling or Still): Apple cider’s fruity sweetness complements the dates and blue cheese.

Additional Tips

Here are 5 helpful tips to ensure your Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates are perfect every time, elevating their flavor, texture, and presentation:

1. Choose High-Quality Dates: The quality of your dates is paramount. Opt for plump, moist Medjool dates. They should be soft and slightly sticky to the touch, indicating freshness. Avoid dates that are dry, hard, or crystallized, as they won’t be as enjoyable. If your dates are a bit dry, try gently steaming them for a few minutes to rehydrate them.
2. Vary the Blue Cheese Intensity: Experiment with different types of blue cheese to tailor the flavor to your preference and your guests’ tastes. For a milder flavor, use Gorgonzola Dolce or a creamy Danish Blue. For a bolder, more pungent flavor, use Roquefort or Stilton. Consider offering a platter with dates stuffed with different types of blue cheese for variety.
3. Toast Your Nuts for Enhanced Flavor: Toasting nuts before using them is a simple step that significantly enhances their flavor and texture. Toasting brings out their nutty aroma and creates a satisfying crunch. Whether you choose walnuts, pecans, or almonds, toasting them in a dry pan or oven for a few minutes will make a noticeable difference in the overall taste of your stuffed dates.
4. Consider Serving Temperature: Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates can be served at room temperature or chilled. Serving them at room temperature allows the full flavor of the blue cheese to shine through and provides a softer date texture. Chilling them firms up the blue cheese and dates, making them easier to handle and offering a refreshing bite, especially welcome in warmer weather. Decide on your preferred serving temperature based on the season and your personal preference.
5. Make Ahead for Easy Entertaining: These stuffed dates are ideal for making ahead of time, which is a lifesaver when entertaining. You can prepare the stuffed dates up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. If adding nuts, it’s best to add them just before serving to maintain their crispness, or store the dates and nuts separately and assemble just before serving. This make-ahead capability makes them a stress-free appetizer for any occasion.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates vegan?

A: Making Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates vegan requires substituting the blue cheese with a vegan alternative. While truly replicating the exact flavor of blue cheese in a vegan version is challenging, there are some options. You can use vegan cream cheese and mix it with nutritional yeast and a touch of miso paste to try and mimic the savory and umami notes of blue cheese. Alternatively, you can stuff dates with other savory vegan fillings like a mixture of walnuts, herbs, and balsamic vinegar, or a spiced cashew cream. While not traditional, these vegan variations can still be delicious.

Q2: What are some good substitutes for blue cheese in this recipe?

A: If you or your guests don’t like blue cheese, you can use other types of cheese for stuffing dates. Cream cheese is a milder and creamier option. Goat cheese offers a tangy and slightly earthy flavor. Brie or Camembert, softened, can provide a rich and buttery filling. You can also experiment with savory fillings like hummus, baba ghanoush, or a tapenade for a non-cheese alternative. While the flavor profile will be different from blue cheese stuffed dates, these substitutions can still create delicious stuffed date appetizers.

Q3: I have nut allergies. What can I use instead of nuts for topping?

A: If nut allergies are a concern, you can easily omit the nuts or use nut-free alternatives for topping. Consider using seeds like pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or sunflower seeds, toasted for extra crunch. Crispy fried onions can also add a savory crunch. For a sweet and crunchy element, try toasted coconut flakes. You can also skip the crunchy topping altogether and rely on the dates, blue cheese, honey, or balsamic glaze for flavor and texture.

Q4: Can I prepare Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates further in advance than 24 hours?

A: While you can prepare the stuffed dates up to 24 hours in advance for optimal freshness and flavor, they can technically be made a little further ahead, up to 48 hours, if stored properly in the refrigerator. However, the dates may start to soften slightly and the blue cheese aroma might become more pronounced over time. For best quality, it is recommended to prepare them no more than 24 hours before serving. If making them further in advance, consider assembling the dates and blue cheese separately and stuffing them closer to serving time.

Q5: Should Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates be served warm?

A: Traditionally, Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates are served at room temperature or chilled, not warm. Heating them is not recommended as it can melt the blue cheese and make the dates overly soft and less appealing in texture. The contrast between the cool, creamy blue cheese and the chewy date is part of the appeal. If you prefer a slightly softened date, you can let them sit at room temperature for a short while before serving, but avoid heating them.

Print