Stuffed Dates with Almonds Recipe – Simple, Sweet, and Nutritious
1. Introduction
Looking for a quick, nutritious, and irresistibly delicious snack? Stuffed Dates with Almonds are the perfect choice. These bite-sized treats are packed with natural sweetness from the dates, and the almonds inside add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, this snack can be whipped up in no time, making it a perfect choice for a healthy, on-the-go treat or a delightful addition to your party platter.
What makes this recipe even better? It’s customizable! You can add a little extra flavor by drizzling honey, sprinkling cinnamon, or even dipping them in chocolate. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack to curb your sugar cravings, a quick post-workout boost, or a simple dessert to impress your guests, these stuffed dates with almonds check all the boxes. Let’s dive into this simple, yet satisfying, recipe.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
For this Stuffed Dates with Almonds recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Medjool Dates – Medjool dates are the star ingredient here, known for their large size, soft texture, and rich, caramel-like sweetness. They make the perfect base for stuffing. You can find them at most grocery stores, and they add a delightful chewy texture to every bite.
- Almonds – Raw, unsalted almonds are the best choice for stuffing inside the dates. The nutty, crunchy almonds provide a lovely contrast to the soft, chewy dates. You can also use roasted almonds for a bit more flavor, but raw almonds are preferred for their natural, mild taste.
- Honey (Optional) – A drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness of the dates. It adds a bit of extra moisture and makes the treat even more indulgent. You can skip this step if you prefer a lower-sugar snack or if the dates are sweet enough for your taste.
- Cinnamon (Optional) – A pinch of ground cinnamon can be sprinkled on top of the stuffed dates for an extra burst of flavor. Cinnamon pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the dates and the nutty almonds, creating a warm, comforting flavor profile.
Common Substitutions:
- Almonds: If you’re allergic to almonds or want a different flavor, you can substitute with other nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or cashews.
- Honey: For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Dates: If you can’t find Medjool dates, you can use any type of large, soft date. Just be sure to remove the pits before stuffing.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, here’s how you can make Stuffed Dates with Almonds:
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Start by carefully slicing each date lengthwise. Use a sharp knife to make a small slit along the center of the date. Gently remove the pit by pulling it out with your fingers. Be careful not to tear the date open completely—just make a slit large enough to stuff the almond inside.
Step 2: Stuff with Almonds
Once the pit is removed, place a single almond inside each date. Press the almond gently into the date so it sits securely, but don’t force it too hard, as you don’t want to break the date.
Step 3: Drizzle with Honey (Optional)
For extra sweetness, drizzle a small amount of honey over the stuffed dates. This will give them a beautiful shine and an added layer of flavor. If you’re using a vegan substitute, drizzle maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey.
Step 4: Sprinkle with Cinnamon (Optional)
If you’d like to add a little spice, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the stuffed dates. This step is optional, but it adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the dates and the crunch of the almonds.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your stuffed dates are ready, arrange them on a plate or serving tray. They’re now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or a sweet treat after a meal. They’re also perfect for holiday gatherings or as a homemade gift.
4. Tips and Variations
- For a Chocolate Twist: If you’re a chocolate lover, consider dipping the stuffed dates in dark or milk chocolate. After dipping, let the chocolate harden in the fridge for an extra indulgent treat.
- Make Them Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, but if you use honey, make sure it’s from a brand that supports ethical sourcing if you’re aiming for a vegan treat.
- Stuff with More Than One Nut: If you love variety, try mixing almonds with other nuts, like cashews or pecans, for different textures and flavors.
- Add Dried Fruit: For an extra burst of flavor, stuff the dates with dried fruit, like raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots, along with the almonds.
- Make a Nut Butter Filling: For a creamy twist, replace the almonds with a spoonful of almond butter or peanut butter. This variation adds a smooth, rich texture to each bite.
5. Serving Suggestions
Stuffed Dates with Almonds are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:
- As a Snack or Appetizer: These stuffed dates are perfect for serving as an easy and elegant appetizer at a party or a snack to satisfy a sweet craving.
- Pair with Cheese: For a savory twist, serve these stuffed dates with a variety of cheeses, such as goat cheese, cream cheese, or Brie. The combination of sweet and savory is always a hit.
- Serve with Fresh Fruit: Pair these stuffed dates with fresh fruit like grapes, apples, or citrus slices for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dates.
- Add to a Charcuterie Board: These dates make a beautiful addition to a charcuterie or cheese board. They pair wonderfully with cured meats and a variety of cheeses.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers:
Store any leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. If you’re planning to store them for longer, place them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keep in mind that the honey may make the dates sticky, so be sure to store them properly to avoid any mess.
Freezing:
Stuffed dates can be frozen for up to 2 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating:
These stuffed dates are best served at room temperature, so simply let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving. If you prefer them warm, gently heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead of Time: These stuffed dates are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge.
- Customize the Stuffing: Feel free to experiment with different fillings. You can use roasted pistachios, cashews, or even a dollop of nut butter for a unique twist.
- Serving Tip: To make your dates look even more elegant, serve them on a decorative platter with fresh mint or edible flowers as garnish.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Carbs | 16g |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 1mg |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Calcium | 20mg |
| Iron | 0.5mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
- Course: Snack, Appetizer
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern / Mediterranean
- Servings: 12 stuffed dates
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates
- 12 raw almonds
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Slice each date and remove the pit.
- Stuff each date with an almond.
- Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired.
- Serve immediately or store for later.
Notes
- Can be prepped ahead of time.
- Best served at room temperature.
Nutrition
See above.
🏷️ Diet Tags: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Vegan (if using maple syrup instead of honey)
🌿 Health Benefits: High in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
10. FAQs
1. Can I use other nuts besides almonds?
Yes! You can use any nut you like, such as cashews, pecans, or walnuts. Just be sure to choose nuts that are similar in size to almonds to ensure a good fit inside the dates.
2. How do I prevent the honey from making a mess?
To avoid the honey from making the dates too sticky, drizzle the honey sparingly, or store the stuffed dates in a container with a lid to prevent any sticky residue from transferring.
3. Can I make these stuffed dates ahead of time?
Absolutely! Stuffed dates can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
4. Can I freeze stuffed dates?
Yes, stuffed dates can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
5. How do I serve stuffed dates at a party?
Stuffed dates are perfect for a party platter! Serve them alongside cheese, nuts, and other bite-sized treats for a fun and elegant appetizer.
11. Final Thoughts or Conclusion
These Stuffed Dates with Almonds are a simple yet impressive snack or appetizer that will leave your guests craving more. They’re quick to make, customizable, and bursting with natural sweetness and texture. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a snack for yourself, or looking for a healthy treat, these stuffed dates are sure to be a hit. Let me know how they turn out for you in the comments below – I’d love to hear your thoughts!