Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 20 stuffed dates
Ingredients: 20 Medjool dates, pitted; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 oz goat cheese, softened; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans; Honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional); Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these cheese stuffed dates for Valentine's Day! They are the perfect combination of sweetness and savory flavors, making them a real crowd-pleaser. The process is simple, yet satisfying, and you'll be amazed at how quickly they disappear. Each bite delivers a delightful burst of flavor that leaves you wanting more. Plus, they are so easy to customize with different types of cheese or nuts, depending on what you have on hand. These snacks are not just delicious; they are an impressive treat for your loved ones!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-10T02:01:21.825Z

When I first made cheese stuffed dates, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the blend of textures and flavors. The creamy cheese contrasts beautifully with the chewy date, creating a wonderfully satisfying snack. I experimented with different cheeses, but I found that goat cheese balances the sweetness of the dates perfectly. I also like to add crushed nuts for a nice crunch!

Another tip I discovered is to serve these stuffed dates slightly chilled. It enhances the flavors and makes them incredibly refreshing. I often pair them with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for an extra touch. You could say they’ve become a staple at my Valentine's celebrations!

        Why You'll Love These Cheese Stuffed Dates
        A delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors
Easy to make and perfect for any gathering
Customizable with your favorite cheeses and nuts

      

The Perfect Cheese Combination

The combination of cream cheese and goat cheese creates a creamy, tangy base that enhances the sweetness of the dates. Cream cheese serves as a great binder, adding richness, while goat cheese injects a sharp contrast that elevates each bite. I recommend using a full-fat version for a silkier texture, which makes the stuffing even more luxurious. If you're a fan of strong flavors, consider adding a bit of crumbled blue cheese for an unexpected twist.

For a unique flavor profile, think about incorporating herbs into your cheese mixture. Fresh thyme or chives can give a light herbaceous note that complements the sweetness of the dates beautifully. Simply chop the herbs finely and fold them into the cheese mixture before stuffing the dates, taking care not to overwork the cheese. This small adjustment can make a noticeable difference!

Stuffing Techniques and Presentation

When stuffing the dates, a small piping bag can make the process cleaner and easier, especially if you're making a large batch. Use a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off as a makeshift piping bag. This allows you to fill the dates evenly and avoids the mess of using spoons. Fill each date to the brim but ensure not to overflow; this helps keep them neat and presentable on your platter.

For a visually appealing presentation, consider using an assortment of nuts not only in the filling but also as a topping. A sprinkle of finely chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall look. Arranging the stuffed dates in a circle on a nice serving platter, drizzled artfully with honey or balsamic glaze, makes for an impressive centerpiece. Don't forget to add those fresh herbs for a touch of color.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious cheese stuffed dates:

Ingredients

20 Medjool dates, pitted
4 oz cream cheese, softened
4 oz goat cheese, softened
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Enjoy your delicious snacks!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cheese stuffed dates:

Prepare the Dates

Start by carefully slicing each date lengthwise to create an opening. Make sure not to cut all the way through; just enough to remove the pit.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the cream cheese and goat cheese until smooth. Add the chopped nuts and mix until evenly distributed.

Stuff the Dates

Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each date with the cheese mixture. Press gently to make sure it's well packed.

Serve

Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter. Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze if desired, and garnish with fresh herbs.

Your cheese stuffed dates are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to use different cheese varieties such as blue cheese or feta for a unique flavor profile. Adding spices like cinnamon or cayenne can also give these snacks an interesting twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

These cheese stuffed dates can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. Once stuffed, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also saves you time on the day of your event. Just make sure to drizzle the honey or glaze right before serving for the best presentation.

If you want to prepare them even further in advance, consider freezing the stuffed dates. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a ziplock bag once solid. They can be stored for up to three months. To serve, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze right before serving.

Dietary Adjustments

If you're catering to specific dietary needs, there are a few easy swaps you can incorporate. For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese and goat cheese with vegan cream cheese and nut-based cheese alternatives. Ensure that your chosen nuts are also compliant with any dietary restrictions. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful treats regardless of their dietary choices.

For a nut-free option, you can fill your dates with just the cheese mixture and consider adding seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch. This change enhances the texture without compromising on flavor. Additionally, herbs can still be included to keep the taste profile interesting and vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the dates a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ What types of cheese work best?

Cream cheese and goat cheese are the most popular, but you can experiment with cheese spreads or any soft cheese you prefer.

→ Are these gluten-free?

Yes, cheese stuffed dates are naturally gluten-free, making them a great snack for gluten-sensitive friends.

→ How can I make these vegan?

For a vegan version, use vegan cream cheese and skip the nuts if you're allergic; sunflower seeds work as a substitute.