Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe

Introduction

Mascarpone stuffed dates with a maple drizzle make an elegant and easy-to-prepare appetizer or dessert. This sweet and creamy treat combines the rich flavor of mascarpone cheese with the natural sweetness of Medjool dates, crunchy nuts, and a touch of maple syrup. Perfect for entertaining or a simple indulgence.

Ingredients

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for the filling)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (pistachios, walnuts, or pecans)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for drizzling)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt flakes (optional)
• Fresh thyme or mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Use a small knife to make a lengthwise slit in each date and carefully remove the pit without cutting all the way through.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of the mascarpone mixture.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the stuffed dates for added texture and flavor.
5. Step 5: Lightly drizzle the maple syrup over the dates to add sweetness and shine.
6. Step 6: If desired, finish with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes and garnish with fresh thyme or mint leaves for a fresh, decorative touch.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute cream cheese for mascarpone if unavailable, but mascarpone provides a silkier texture.
• Use different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a unique crunch and flavor.
• Try a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg in the mascarpone mixture for a warm spice note.
• For an extra indulgence, wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of prosciutto before serving.

Storage

Store the stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Drizzle with maple syrup and garnish just before serving for the freshest presentation. These are best enjoyed the same day but can be gently reheated to room temperature if preferred.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these stuffed dates in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dates up to 1 day ahead and keep them refrigerated. Add the maple drizzle and garnish just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Are these dates suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely. All ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe

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4.5 from 112 reviews

These Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle are a delightful blend of creamy mascarpone cheese sweetened with honey and vanilla, stuffed inside naturally sweet Medjool dates. Topped with crunchy nuts and a drizzle of pure maple syrup, this elegant appetizer offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, finished with optional sea salt flakes and fresh herbs for an extra layer of taste and presentation.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 stuffed dates (serves 4 as appetizer) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dates

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted

Mascarpone Filling

• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings and Garnish

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (pistachios, walnuts, or pecans)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for drizzling)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt flakes (optional)
• Fresh thyme or mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dates: Use a small knife to carefully make a lengthwise slit in each Medjool date and remove the pit without cutting all the way through, creating a pocket for the filling.
2. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened mascarpone cheese with honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Stuff the Dates: Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each pitted date with about one teaspoon of the mascarpone mixture, ensuring each date is fully stuffed without overfilling.
4. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the stuffed dates with chopped nuts of your choice, such as pistachios, walnuts, or pecans, to add a crunchy texture and complementary flavor.
5. Drizzle Maple Syrup: Lightly drizzle the prepared stuffed dates with maple syrup to add a subtle sweetness and glossy finish.
6. Garnish (Optional): For an enhanced flavor and attractive presentation, sprinkle sea salt flakes over the dates and garnish with fresh thyme or mint leaves.

Notes

• Medjool dates are preferred for their large size and natural sweetness, which balances well with the creamy filling.
• Ensure mascarpone cheese is softened to make mixing and stuffing easier.
• Feel free to swap honey for maple syrup in the filling depending on your preference for natural sweetness.
• Chopped nuts add texture, but you can omit if nut-free is required or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
• This recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature.
• Sea salt flakes enhance the flavor contrast but are optional for those who prefer a sweeter taste.

Keywords: stuffed dates, mascarpone cheese, maple syrup drizzle, healthy appetizer, no-cook recipe, sweet and savory appetizer