Surrender to indulgence with Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle, a treat that brings together creamy mascarpone, sweet and chewy Medjool dates, crunchy pecans, and a luscious cascade of maple syrup. This is a show-stopper appetizer or snack, perfect for wowing guests or treating yourself to a moment of everyday luxury. Each bite is an irresistible balance of rich, sweet, and toasty flavors, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly these disappear from the plate!

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s beauty in the simplicity of Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle. Every ingredient plays a star role; no corners are cut when it comes to flavor or wow-factor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need, and a tip for getting the very best out of each part.

Medjool Dates: Opt for fresh, plump dates as their soft texture and natural sweetness hold the filling perfectly and offer great bite.
Mascarpone Cheese: This Italian cream cheese has a pillowy texture and subtle richness that transforms ordinary dates into something decadent.
Pecans: Chop them finely—a quick toast in the oven or skillet beforehand intensifies their flavor and adds crunch.
Maple Syrup: Use a quality Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup for more robust caramel notes; this drizzle ties everything together with a golden, sticky finish.

How to Make Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare for Broiling

Begin by preheating your broiler and moving an oven rack to its highest setting. This ensures your dates will be kissed by just enough heat to toast them lightly and melt the filling ever so slightly. Lining your baking sheet with parchment or foil makes cleanup simple and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Slice and Stuff the Dates

Take each Medjool date and gently make a lengthwise slit, being careful not to cut all the way through. Remove the pit and open each date just enough to create a pocket. Next, use a small spoon or piping bag to generously stuff the centers with creamy mascarpone.

Step 3: Sprinkle with Pecans

Now for crunch! Scoop up your finely chopped pecans and sprinkle them onto the exposed mascarpone. The nuts add beautiful contrast, flavor, and a little rustic elegance to every date.

Step 4: Maple Drizzle and Broil

Place your filled dates onto the lined baking sheet, then let the show begin: Drizzle each date with a touch of maple syrup. Pop the tray under the broiler, keeping a close eye—they need just about three minutes to turn golden and caramelized, but can burn in seconds. Let them sit for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle and the cheese sets.

How to Serve Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle

Garnishes

Finish your Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle with an extra sprinkle of toasted pecans for crunch, and maybe a pinch of flaky sea salt to make each flavor pop. For festive occasions, a dusting of orange zest also adds a surprising, citrusy twist.

Side Dishes

These dates easily stand on their own as finger food or a sweet-savory appetizer, but they’re also fantastic alongside a crisp salad with bitter greens, or paired with a cheeseboard boasting aged cheddar and blue cheese. Even a platter with fresh apple or pear slices will add a wonderful, juicy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try threading the finished dates onto small skewers for an elegant party tray or nestling them in mini muffin liners for simple, hands-free serving. Want to elevate their appearance even more? Arrange them in a zigzag pattern on a long serving board and drizzle extra maple syrup across the whole lot right before they hit the table for a dramatic, glossy touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though this is rare!), simply store your Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to three days, and the flavors continue to meld and deepen.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy these fresh, you can freeze unbroiled, stuffed dates if you want to get ahead. Layer them in a single layer between sheets of parchment in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator and broil just before serving.

Reheating

To refresh chilled dates, give them a quick pop under the broiler or in a hot oven for a minute or two. This brings the mascarpone back to creamy, soft life and restores that toasty edge to the pecans.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mascarpone is classic for Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle, you can experiment with whipped ricotta, goat cheese, or even cream cheese for a tangier profile. Each option gives the dates a slightly different personality.

What if I can’t find Medjool dates?

Medjool dates are prized for their size and sweetness, but if you can only find smaller Deglet Noor dates, simply use more of them. Keep in mind they’re firmer, so you may want to soak them in warm water for ten minutes to soften before stuffing.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Of course! Swap in your favorite plant-based cream cheese or whipped coconut cream for the mascarpone, and make sure your maple syrup is vegan-certified. The results will still be a hit at any gathering.

Can I add spices to the filling?

Yes, and it’s delightful. Stir a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or even a bit of orange zest into the mascarpone before stuffing the dates for an aromatic and festive twist on Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle.

How do I prevent the dates from burning under the broiler?

The broiler’s intense heat can scorch dates quickly, so keep a close watch and never leave them unattended. Broil for just two to three minutes and check frequently—it’s better to err on the side of caution for perfect results.

Final Thoughts

No matter the season or the occasion, there’s always a good reason to make Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle. They strike the perfect chord between sweet and savory, and with so little effort, you’ll have a memorable treat sure to spark joy with every bite. Give these a try and watch them become a new favorite at your table!

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 19 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 24 stuffed dates 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle are a delightful sweet treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with creamy mascarpone cheese, crunchy pecans, and a rich maple syrup drizzle. Perfect for a quick and elegant dessert or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Pecan Crumbs:

1/4 cup finely chopped pecans

Stuffed Dates:

24 Medjool Dates (pitted)
6 oz Mascarpone cheese
2 tbsp Grade A Dark Amber Maple Syrup

Instructions

Preheat Broiler: Turn on oven broiler and adjust rack to the top position.
Prepare Dates: Slice dates lengthwise, remove pits, and fill with mascarpone cheese. Top with pecan crumbs.
Drizzle: Place stuffed dates on a baking sheet, drizzle with maple syrup.
Broil: Broil for about 3 minutes until golden, watching carefully.
Serve: Allow to cool slightly before enjoying warm or at room temperature.
Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.