These Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle are an elegant yet simple appetizer that perfectly balances sweet and creamy flavors. The natural caramel-like sweetness of Medjool dates pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery mascarpone cheese, while the maple drizzle and toasted pecans add complexity and texture. This sophisticated treat works equally well as a dinner party starter or an indulgent afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare with just 4 ingredients and ready in under 15 minutes
• Perfect balance of textures with chewy dates, creamy mascarpone, and crunchy pecans
• Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, dessert, or elegant snack
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly
• Impressive presentation with minimal effort—looks like it came from a high-end restaurant

Ingredients

• Medjool Dates: These larger, softer dates provide the perfect sweetness and tender chewiness. Their natural caramel flavor makes them ideal for this recipe, but you could substitute Deglet Noor dates if necessary.
• Mascarpone Cheese: This Italian cream cheese has a rich, buttery texture that works beautifully as a filling. Its mild flavor allows the other ingredients to shine.
• Pecans: Finely chopped pecans add a wonderful textural contrast and nutty flavor. You can toast them lightly beforehand for enhanced flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Use real Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup for the richest flavor. The depth and complexity of real maple syrup cannot be substituted with artificial alternatives.

Variations

Savory-Sweet Version

Add a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each date after broiling. The salt contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the dates and maple syrup, creating a more complex flavor profile that’s perfect for sophisticated palates.

Spiced Holiday Option

Mix a small amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom into the mascarpone before stuffing the dates. This warm spice blend transforms these treats into perfect holiday appetizers that pair wonderfully with mulled wine or spiced cider.

Blue Cheese Alternative

Replace the mascarpone with a mild blue cheese for a more sophisticated flavor profile. The tangy, savory notes of the blue cheese create a stunning contrast with the sweet dates and maple syrup. This version pairs exceptionally well with port or dessert wines.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

Start by slicing each Medjool date lengthwise, creating a pocket for the filling while being careful not to cut all the way through. Remove the pits and gently open the dates to form a small cavity for the mascarpone filling.

Step 2: Fill the Dates

Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each date cavity with mascarpone cheese. Don’t overfill them – leave a small space at the top for the pecans. Once filled, sprinkle the finely chopped pecans on top of the mascarpone, gently pressing them in so they adhere.

Step 3: Broil and Finish

Arrange the stuffed dates on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Drizzle each date with maple syrup, then place under the broiler for approximately 3 minutes. Watch them carefully, as they can quickly go from perfectly golden to burnt. Once they’re lightly golden on top, remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Choose soft, plump Medjool dates for the best texture and flavor
• Bring the mascarpone to room temperature for easier filling
• For extra flavor, lightly toast the pecans before chopping
• Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
• Watch the dates constantly while broiling – they can burn in seconds
• For a more elegant presentation, use a piping bag to fill the dates with mascarpone

How to Serve

These mascarpone stuffed dates are best served slightly warm or at room temperature when the mascarpone is soft and creamy. Arrange them on a wooden board or elegant serving platter for an impressive presentation. They pair beautifully with sparkling wine, champagne, or dessert wines like port or sherry. Consider serving them alongside other small bites for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer spread, or as part of a cheese board with complementary flavors like fresh figs, honey, and marcona almonds.

Make Ahead

These stuffed dates can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making them perfect for entertaining. Prepare the dates through the filling stage, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring them to room temperature, drizzle with maple syrup, and broil according to the recipe instructions.

If you need to store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving, or gently warm them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to soften the mascarpone.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates for this recipe?

Yes, while Medjool dates are preferred for their size and softness, you can substitute other varieties like Deglet Noor. Just be aware that smaller dates will be more challenging to fill and may require less mascarpone.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to mascarpone cheese?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, you can use cashew cream cheese or coconut cream that’s been refrigerated and thickened. While the flavor profile will be slightly different, these alternatives still create a delicious contrast with the sweet dates.

Can I make these without nuts for allergy concerns?

Yes, the pecans can be omitted entirely or replaced with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies. You could also use granola or toasted breadcrumbs for a similar textural contrast.

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

Position your oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler element rather than at the very top position. Also, leave the oven door slightly ajar while broiling and watch the dates constantly, rotating the pan if necessary for even browning.

Conclusion

These Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle represent the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. With just a handful of quality ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create an impressive appetizer or dessert that will have your guests asking for the recipe. The contrast between the sweet, chewy dates, creamy mascarpone, crunchy pecans, and rich maple syrup creates a flavor experience that feels indulgent yet surprisingly balanced. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to something special, these stuffed dates are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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