Ingredients
Dates and Basic Fillings
- 10 Medjool dates
- 3 tablespoons almond butter
- 3 tablespoons vegan cream cheese
- 2-3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 3-4 tablespoons almond ricotta
- 3 tablespoons vegan cream cheese
Nuts and Toppings
- 5-6 pistachio nuts (toasted and crushed)
- 10 pecan nuts (toasted)
- 5-6 almonds (lightly toasted, crushed)
- 5-6 walnuts (toasted and crushed)
- 10 almonds (lightly toasted)
- 5-6 walnuts (toasted and crushed)
- 1 almond (for each Snickers date)
Herbs, Spices and Flavorings
- 2 teaspoons desiccated coconut
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 sundried tomato (finely diced)
- 2-3 fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary (chopped)
- ⅓ teaspoon coarse salt (plus extra to sprinkle)
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup (to drizzle)
Chocolate
- 1 oz dark chocolate (chopped, 28 g)
- 2.5 oz dark chocolate (melted, 70 g)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: Cut the Medjool dates open lengthwise and remove the pits carefully to avoid breaking the dates. Arrange them in a single layer on a large plate to prepare for stuffing.
- Fill the Dates: Using a spoon, fill each date with your chosen filling, whether it’s almond butter, peanut butter, vegan cream cheese mixed with herbs and crushed nuts, or almond ricotta. Make sure each date is generously stuffed for the best taste.
- Prepare Snickers Dates: For the Snickers-style dates, stuff each one with a single almond. Then dip each stuffed date into melted dark chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Place them on a cooling rack to allow any excess chocolate to drip off for a neat finish.
- Season and Chill: Lightly sprinkle the stuffed dates with coarse salt if desired to enhance the flavors. Place the dates in the refrigerator and chill for at least one hour so the fillings set and the chocolate firms up.
- Add Final Toppings: Just before serving, garnish the stuffed dates with fresh herbs like chopped basil, rosemary, or thyme, additional crushed nuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Ensure the dates are fresh and soft for easy filling.
- To toast nuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant.
- Use melted chocolate at a moderate temperature to avoid burning and ensure smooth coating.
- Store stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegan option, confirm the dark chocolate used is dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegan