Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates are a delightful combination of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors wrapped in a luscious, creamy filling. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a festive snack, these bite-sized treats are simple to prepare yet impressively delicious.

Ingredients

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
3. Step 3: Carefully slice each pitted date lengthwise to create a small pocket, making sure not to cut all the way through.
4. Step 4: Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each date with the cream cheese mixture until nicely stuffed.
5. Step 5: Arrange the stuffed dates on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Step 6: Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the dates are warm and the cream cheese is slightly softened.
7. Step 7: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and mixing.
• Try substituting dried cherries or apricots for cranberries for a different fruity twist.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a warm spice note.
• Use goat cheese instead of cream cheese for a tangier flavor.

Storage

Store the stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature or enjoy chilled. They are best served warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these stuffed dates in advance?

Yes, you can stuff the dates ahead of time and keep them refrigerated. Bake them just before serving to ensure they are warm and the cream cheese is soft.

What if I can’t find Medjool dates?

Medjool dates are preferred for their size and softness, but you can use other large, soft dates. Just make sure to pit them and handle gently to avoid breaking.

Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 52 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 12 stuffed dates 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightfully sweet and creamy, these Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates are the perfect bite-sized appetizer or snack. Soft Medjool dates are filled with a luscious blend of cream cheese, dried cranberries, and pecans, lightly sweetened with honey and infused with vanilla. Baked until warm and slightly softened, they make an elegant addition to any gathering or a special treat anytime.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dates

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted

Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are fully combined, creating a flavorful and creamy filling.
3. Slice Dates: Carefully slice each pitted date lengthwise to create a small pocket for the filling, taking care not to cut all the way through to keep the dates intact for stuffing.
4. Stuff Dates: Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each date pocket with the prepared cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are nicely and evenly stuffed for the best flavor balance.
5. Arrange for Baking: Place the stuffed dates evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet, allowing heat to circulate for even warming.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the dates are warm and the cream cheese filling softens slightly, bringing out the rich flavors.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dates cool for a few minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delicious, elegant appetizer or snack.

Notes

• Use Medjool dates for their large size and natural sweetness, which works best for stuffing.
• If you prefer a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
• For a vegan alternative, use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute and maple syrup instead of honey.
• These stuffed dates can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
• Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; warm briefly before serving.
• Ensure to finely chop pecans and cranberries to fit well inside the dates.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: stuffed dates, cream cheese, cranberries, pecans, appetizer, baked dates, holiday snack, easy appetizer, sweet and savory bites