Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Cheese Stuffed Dates
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12 stuffed dates
Ingredients: 12 large Medjool dates, pitted; 4 oz goat cheese, softened; 2 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); Honey for drizzling (optional); Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Highlighted under: Special Inspiration

I love preparing simple yet elegant snacks for special occasions, and these cheese stuffed dates are always a hit! The combination of the sweet, caramel-like flavor of dates paired with creamy cheese creates a delightful contrast that I simply can’t resist. With just a few ingredients, it’s easy to whip up this delicious treat for Valentine’s Day or any gathering. Plus, they’re the perfect finger food that guests can enjoy while mingling. Let’s get started on making these irresistible bites!

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:47:35.457Z

When I first discovered cheese stuffed dates, I was captivated by how straightforward and satisfying they are to make. The first time I prepared this snack, I used a mix of goat cheese and cream cheese, and the result was a decadent bite that balanced sweetness with a savory twist. I recommend experimenting with different cheeses and nuts for stuffing to find your favorite combination!

The beauty of this recipe is not just in its flavor, but also its versatility. I love serving them with a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of honey to elevate the taste even further. Each time I make these, I get requests for the recipe, and they quickly disappear from the platter!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet dates paired with creamy, tangy cheese
Quick and easy to prepare in just a few minutes
Delightfully elegant, perfect for any occasion

      

Perfecting the Cheese Filling

The key to a successful cheese filling lies in the creaminess and balance of flavors. Using a combination of goat cheese and cream cheese not only provides a rich mouthfeel but also a delightful tang that complements the sweetness of the dates. Make sure both cheeses are at room temperature before mixing; this will ensure a smoother texture. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a bit of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mix for an extra layer of flavor.

When mixing the cheeses, aim for a smooth consistency without lumps. You can achieve this by using a hand mixer or a stand mixer for 1-2 minutes, but a good old-fashioned fork works too if you prefer doing it by hand. This also allows you to control the texture better, but ensure there are no dry spots to maintain an even distribution of flavors throughout the filling.

Stuffing the Dates with Precision

When you slice the dates, make a careful incision that creates an opening without splitting them into two pieces. This will help maintain the structure of the date while still allowing you to stuff it generously. You can use a paring knife for this step, but be cautious not to apply too much pressure as it’s easy to cut through if the knife is too sharp or if you’re not focused.

Using a piping bag can make stuffing the dates a breeze. If you don’t have one, simply cut off the corner of a zip-top bag filled with the cheese mixture. This also helps control the amount of filling you put inside each date, ensuring they are evenly filled and look professionally presented. I recommend filling them to the brim but leaving a little room at the top for a finishing touch of honey or nuts.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare these delicious stuffed dates:

Ingredients

12 large Medjool dates, pitted
4 oz goat cheese, softened
2 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Honey for drizzling (optional)
Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients, we can move on to the preparation steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cheese stuffed dates:

Prepare the Dates

Begin by carefully slicing each date lengthwise on one side to create an opening but don’t cut it all the way through.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth. If desired, mix in the chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Stuff the Dates

Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each date with the cheese mixture. Make sure to pack it in there well!

Finish and Serve

Once all the dates are stuffed, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt if you like. Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.

Enjoy your delightful cheese stuffed dates as a perfect snack for any gathering!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the cheese with your favorite varieties or add herbs like chives or dill to enhance the flavor profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These cheese stuffed dates can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient option for gatherings. You can stuff the dates and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add the honey drizzle and sea salt right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. This also ensures that the dates don’t become too soft from the moisture of the filling.

If you have leftovers, which is often unlikely, you can store them in the fridge for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the dates may become a bit drier over time. To revive the flavor, consider reheating them briefly in the oven at a low temperature for about 5-10 minutes—just until they’re warmed through. Avoid the microwave as it can make the dates too chewy.

Delicious Variations to Try

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a touch of crumbled blue cheese or feta to the filling mix. This gives the dates a contrasting salty note that complements the sweetness perfectly. You could also experiment with different toppings. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a dusting of chili flakes can elevate the presentation and flavor profile, catering to both sweet and savory palates.

If you're looking for a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or pecans and consider adding finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the cheese filling. This not only maintains the delightful chewiness but also adds an interesting flavor contrast that pairs beautifully with the dates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed dates ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the dates and stuffing a few hours ahead of time and then assemble them right before serving.

→ What other ingredients can I use for stuffing?

You can use blue cheese, ricotta, or even add ingredients like herbs, spices, or dried fruit for a unique twist!

→ Are these suitable for vegans?

Unfortunately, this recipe is not vegan-friendly due to the cheese. However, you can try using a vegan cream cheese alternative.

→ How should I store leftover stuffed dates?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re still delicious cold!