Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe
Delightful Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates combine the natural sweetness of Medjool dates with a creamy, tangy filling enriched with dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, honey, and vanilla. This easy-to-make appetizer or snack is baked to warm the flavors and soften the cream cheese, perfect for entertaining or a special treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed dates
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Stuffed Dates
- 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
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the stuffed dates.
- Prepare the 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 fully combined, creating a creamy and flavorful filling.
- Prep the dates: Carefully slice each pitted Medjool date lengthwise to create a small pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through so the filling can be stuffed inside without the date falling apart.
- Stuff the dates: Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each date’s pocket with the cream cheese mixture until nicely stuffed, ensuring each date is evenly filled.
- Arrange and bake: Place the stuffed dates evenly on the lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the dates are warmed through and the cream cheese is slightly softened but not melted.
- Cool and serve: Remove the stuffed dates from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy their sweet, creamy, and nutty flavors.
Notes
- Use Medjool dates for their large size and natural sweetness, perfect for stuffing.
- For easier filling, soften cream cheese at room temperature before mixing.
- Chop nuts and dried cranberries finely to ensure a smooth, easy-to-stuff mixture.
- These stuffed dates can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- Optionally, drizzle additional honey over the dates before serving for extra sweetness.
- For a different twist, try substituting pecans with walnuts or almonds.
