Stuffed Dates with Ricotta

These honey pistachio ricotta stuffed dates are my go to for last minute gatherings and sweet cravings They deliver a gorgeous bite sized treat that looks straight out of a dessert cafe but comes together with barely any effort

The first time I served these at a family movie night they disappeared in under ten minutes and everyone asked for the recipe

Ingredients

• Medjool dates: The large soft kind is key for easy stuffing and the richest caramel flavor Choose shiny plump dates not dried out ones
• Ricotta cheese: This provides luscious creaminess Opt for whole milk ricotta for a richer taste If you find fresh local ricotta at the market it makes a real difference
• Pistachios: These add crunch and a pop of color Shelled unsalted pistachios keep things from getting too salty The greener the nut the fresher it tastes
• Honey: Brings floral sweetness A local raw honey will lend more complexity Drizzle a little extra on top for a glossy finish
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and makes the filling taste almost like cheesecake Pure vanilla extract is best Avoid artificial flavors
• Cinnamon: A pinch is optional but adds gentle spice and depth Use a fragrant Ceylon cinnamon when possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dates:

Slice each Medjool date lengthwise with a sharp knife gently so you do not cut all the way through Remove the pit and softly pry the date open just enough to form a pocket for stuffing Try to keep each date as intact as possible

Make the Ricotta Filling:

Combine ricotta cheese honey vanilla extract and a pinch of cinnamon in a small bowl Mix until the filling is smooth creamy and well blended Taste and adjust the honey or vanilla for your sweetness preference If your ricotta seems watery let it drain over a fine mesh sieve for fifteen minutes before mixing

Stuff the Dates:

Using a spoon or a piping bag carefully fill each date pocket with the ricotta mixture Do not overstuff so the dates still close slightly If you want neater presentation use a piping bag with a round tip Gently press the filled dates closed so the filling slightly peeks out

Garnish:

Sprinkle chopped pistachios all over the stuffed dates for crunch and color Drizzle lightly with extra honey for shine and sweetness Serve immediately or chill for firmer filling and bolder flavor

Pin it

Pistachios have always made me think of spring holidays My grandpa used to crack open fresh ones for us at the kitchen table and the bright green is a happy memory every time I garnish a tray of these

Storage Tips

Store any leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container in the fridge They will stay fresh and creamy for up to three days For best texture let them sit at room temperature for ten minutes before serving so the filling softens

Ingredient Substitutions

Mascarpone cheese works if you do not have ricotta Just add a tiny splash of milk to loosen it You can swap pistachios with chopped walnuts or almonds for a twist If honey is not available try a drizzle of maple syrup

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed dates serve beautifully on a cheese board alongside sharp cheeses grapes and crackers For a more elegant dessert dust with cocoa powder or arrange on a pretty platter with edible flowers They pair well with espresso or after dinner drinks

Cultural Touch

Dates stuffed with nuts and cheese have roots across the Mediterranean and Middle East Sweet and savory versions are served during holidays and celebrations and I love bringing that festive spirit to everyday occasions

Pin it

Prepare these delightful dates to add a touch of elegance and sweetness to any occasion Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these stuffed dates ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these stuffed dates up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture and flavor, add the final honey drizzle just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt (strained) can substitute for ricotta. Each will provide a different texture and tanginess level, but all work well with the honey and pistachios.

→ Are these stuffed dates suitable for freezing?

These stuffed dates don't freeze well as the texture of the ricotta filling can become grainy when thawed. They're best enjoyed fresh or within a few days when refrigerated.

→ What other nuts can I use instead of pistachios?

Chopped walnuts, almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts all make excellent substitutions for pistachios. Each nut variety will bring its own unique flavor profile to complement the sweet dates.

→ How can I make these stuffed dates vegan?

Replace the ricotta with a plant-based alternative like vegan cream cheese or a thick coconut yogurt. The honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar for a fully vegan treat.

→ What can I serve with these stuffed dates?

These stuffed dates work beautifully on a cheese board alongside fresh and dried fruits, various cheeses, crackers, and nuts. They also pair well with coffee or dessert wines for an elegant ending to a meal.