Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese in Puff Pastry

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Introduction

Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese in Puff Pastry is a sophisticated appetizer that blends sweet, savory, and flaky textures into one irresistible bite. The dates, naturally sweet and tender, pair perfectly with the creamy tang of goat cheese, while the puff pastry adds a light, crispy contrast. Whether you serve them as an appetizer for a dinner party, a special treat for guests, or a unique snack, these stuffed dates are guaranteed to impress.

I prepare this dish, and as the puff pastry puffs up and turns golden in the oven, the rich scent fills the air, mixing with the subtle sweetness of the dates. As I stuff the dates with the creamy goat cheese, I can’t help but smile at how the combination of flavors comes together. Once they’re baked to perfection, the dates emerge with a crisp, flaky exterior, revealing a sweet and savory filling that melts in your mouth.

What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios, drizzle honey over the top, or even add a bit of prosciutto for extra flavor. These Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese in Puff Pastry aren’t just a treat; they’re a gourmet experience that brings elegance and delight to any occasion.

Perfect For

I serve this dish at parties, holiday gatherings, or as a pre-dinner treat when I want to impress. These stuffed dates make a wonderful bite-sized appetizer for any occasion and are perfect for those who enjoy a balance of savory and sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: This recipe is super simple and quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. With only a handful of ingredients, I can have a delicious, restaurant-worthy appetizer ready to serve with minimal effort. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for last-minute gatherings or when I want something tasty without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
  • Perfect Flavor Balance: The combination of sweet, caramelized dates and creamy, tangy goat cheese creates the perfect contrast of flavors. The crispy puff pastry wraps everything together, adding texture and richness to every bite. The sweet and savory balance makes these stuffed dates a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress anyone.
  • Impressive Presentation: The puff pastry crisps up beautifully, turning a golden brown and adding a touch of elegance to the dish. When I place these on a platter, they look like a gourmet treat, making them the perfect appetizer for parties or special occasions. The visual appeal matches the flavor, making these stuffed dates an all-around winner.
  • Customizable: One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adjusted to fit different tastes. I can experiment with adding a variety of seasonings or toppings to create new flavor profiles. For example, I can add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the goat cheese filling, sprinkle cinnamon or chili flakes for a spicy kick, or even top them with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. The possibilities are endless!

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Serving Portion

  • This recipe makes 12 stuffed dates, perfect for 4-6 people as an appetizer.

Calories and Key Nutrients

  • Calories: ~110 per serving (2 dates)
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Calcium: Provides essential nutrients for bone health.

Ingredients

  • 12 Medjool dates, pitted
  • 4 oz goat cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Dates: Provide a natural sweetness that complements the tangy goat cheese.
  • Goat Cheese: Offers a creamy, slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the dates.
  • Puff Pastry: Adds a flaky, golden exterior that elevates the dish.
  • Honey: Enhances the sweetness and provides a glossy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dates

  1. I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. I slice the dates lengthwise, removing the pits.

Stuff the Dates

  1. In a small bowl, I mix the softened goat cheese with honey and cinnamon (if using).
  2. I spoon about 1 teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture into each date.

Wrap in Puff Pastry

  1. I roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
  2. I cut the pastry into 12 squares, large enough to wrap each stuffed date.
  3. I place each stuffed date in the center of a puff pastry square and fold the edges around the date to seal it.

Bake

  1. I whisk the egg and brush the egg wash over the puff pastry.
  2. I bake the stuffed dates in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy.

Serve

  1. Once baked, I sprinkle a little sea salt over the dates for a touch of contrast. I serve them warm and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

How I Serve It

I serve these dates as a finger food appetizer, perfect for parties or gatherings. I love pairing them with a chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling drink for an added touch of sophistication. These dates also pair well with a cheese board for a savory-sweet pairing.

Additional Tips

  • Herb Variations: I can mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the goat cheese for an added flavor twist.
  • Nutty Variation: I often stuff the dates with a small piece of toasted almond or pecan for extra crunch.
  • Sweet Touch: I drizzle a little extra honey on top before serving for added sweetness and shine.

Recipe Variations

  • Bacon-Wrapped: For a savory twist, I wrap the puff pastry around the dates and goat cheese and then wrap them in bacon before baking. The smoky, crispy bacon adds a wonderful depth of flavor and texture, complementing the sweetness of the dates and the tanginess of the goat cheese. The bacon also crisps up beautifully, creating a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft filling inside. This variation is ideal for anyone who loves a bit of smokiness and richness in their appetizers.
  • Spicy Option: To add some heat, I stir a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the goat cheese filling. The heat from the spice balances out the sweetness of the dates and gives the pastry a little kick. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a spicy contrast to the sweetness and creamy goat cheese. It adds an exciting flavor profile that will surprise and delight anyone who loves a bit of spice in their food.
  • Nut-Free: For a simple, allergy-friendly option, I leave out the nuts and stick to just the goat cheese and dates. The natural sweetness of the dates still pairs wonderfully with the creamy and tangy goat cheese, while the puff pastry holds everything together perfectly. This version is great for people with nut allergies or those looking for a lighter, simpler treat that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The simplicity of this version allows the goat cheese and dates to really shine, making it a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Freezing and Storage

  • Refrigerate: I store any leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps preserve their freshness and prevents them from drying out. When I’m ready to serve them again, I can either enjoy them chilled or reheat them to bring back that warm, gooey filling.
  • Freezing: These stuffed dates freeze well before baking, which makes them a great make-ahead option. To freeze, I arrange the stuffed dates on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them individually. Once frozen solid, I transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. When it’s time to bake, I can cook them directly from frozen. I preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy. This method ensures that the dates stay fresh and ready to be baked to perfection whenever I need a quick and impressive appetizer.

Special Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush for egg wash

FAQ Section

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! I prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. I just bake them right before serving.

Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Yes! Cream cheese, brie, or blue cheese are great alternatives to goat cheese for different flavor profiles.

Q: How do I keep the puff pastry crispy?
A: I make sure the puff pastry is well sealed around the dates to prevent any filling from leaking out, and I bake them immediately after assembling.

Conclusion

Indulge in a savory-sweet treat with Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese in Puff Pastry. These delightful bites combine the natural sweetness of dates with the creamy richness of goat cheese, all wrapped in a golden, flaky puff pastry. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or part of a festive spread, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The contrast between the sweet and tangy flavors, combined with the crisp pastry, creates a sophisticated yet simple dish. You can also get creative by adding herbs or nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Bake them up, enjoy the delicious results, and share the experience with friends and family. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share it online! mind to tag me! so we can celebrate your culinary success together!

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