Feta-Parmesan Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Crunch Recipe
These Feta-Parmesan Stuffed Dates with Honey-Walnut Crunch offer a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors. Medjool dates are filled with a creamy, tangy mixture of feta and Parmesan cheeses, then topped with a warm honey and toasted walnut mixture enhanced by fresh thyme. Baked until the cheese is slightly melted, this elegant appetizer combines a delightful crunch with rich, sweet notes, perfect for entertaining or a sophisticated snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed dates, serves 4 as appetizer 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Dates and Cheese Filling
- 12 large Medjool dates
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Honey-Walnut Crunch
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise and remove the pit to create a pocket for the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix together the crumbled feta and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Spoon the cheese mixture into each pitted date, pressing gently to fill.
- Prepare the Honey-Walnut Crunch: Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and toast for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become golden and fragrant. Remove from heat, then stir in the honey and chopped fresh thyme. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Bake: Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet and drizzle the warm honey-walnut mixture evenly over each. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to warm through and slightly melt.
- Serve: Remove the dates from the oven, let them cool slightly, then serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use large Medjool dates for best stuffing results—they’re sweet and soft.
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds based on preference.
- For a stronger herb flavor, add a bit more fresh thyme or try rosemary.
- This appetizer is best served warm but can be served at room temperature.
- To make ahead, stuff the dates and toast nuts in advance, assemble just before baking.
Keywords: stuffed dates, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, honey walnut crunch, appetizer, Mediterranean appetizer, baked stuffed dates, easy party snack
