If you’ve ever dreamed of a quick, elegant treat that tastes like pure luxury but is stunningly effortless, these Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle are about to become your new go-to. Sweet, sticky Medjool dates nestle a velvety mascarpone-vanilla filling, topped with crunchy toasted nuts and kissed with golden maple syrup. The flavor combo is out of this world and, best of all, you can have these bite-sized delights on your party platter (or evening snack plate) in minutes. Whether you serve them as a sophisticated appetizer or a poppable dessert, I promise you’ll fall in love at first bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle comes from the perfect harmony of just a few ingredients. Each one not only brings its own unique flavor or texture but also ensures that these treats are rich, satisfying, and utterly crave-worthy.
- Medjool dates (20, pitted): These naturally sweet, sticky gems are the heart of the recipe, offering a caramel-like chewiness you can’t resist.
- Mascarpone cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Lusciously smooth with a gentle flavor, mascarpone is the key to that creamy, dreamy filling.
- Vanilla extract (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch elevates the filling with warm, fragrant notes that pair perfectly with dates and maple.
- Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (1/4 cup): Toasting the nuts adds crunch and a toasted depth that balances all the sweetness.
- Pure maple syrup (2 tablespoons): This isn’t just for show! A generous drizzle brings mellow, woodsy sweetness to finish each bite.
- Flaky sea salt (pinch, optional): Just a tiny sprinkle makes the flavors pop and creates beautiful balance—especially if your sweet tooth likes a little contrast.
How to Make Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Start by taking each Medjool date and slicing it lengthwise on just one side—think of creating a little pocket. If your dates aren’t already pitted, gently remove the pit with your fingers. This little step creates the perfect nook for all that creamy mascarpone to come.
Step 2: Mix the Mascarpone Vanilla Filling
In a small bowl, combine your softened mascarpone cheese with the vanilla extract. Stir until perfectly smooth. This mixture is absolute magic—think of it as a fluffy, sweet cloud just waiting to cuddle inside the dates.
Step 3: Fill the Dates
Using a small spoon (or a piping bag if you’re feeling fancy), scoop about a teaspoon of the mascarpone mixture and stuff it right into each open date. Don’t worry if things get a little messy—this is part of the fun, and those little overflows look charming on a serve platter.
Step 4: Add Crunchy Nut Topping
Sprinkle each stuffed date with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts. This step adds richness and crunch for contrast—you’ll love the crisp bite alongside the smoothing filling.
Step 5: Arrange and Drizzle
Place your stuffed dates on a pretty serving platter. Just before serving, take your pure maple syrup and drizzle it generously over the dates. If you like things extra special, finish with a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt to set off all the sweet flavors.
How to Serve Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle
Garnishes
Don’t hesitate to have fun with finishing touches! A hint of orange zest or a light sprinkle of cinnamon can bring extra pop to your Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle. You can also try chopped dried rose petals or edible gold flakes for a show-stopping look fit for special occasions.
Side Dishes
These little morsels are wonderful on an elegant cheese board next to sharp cheeses, fresh grapes, or figs. For dessert spreads, serve them with dark chocolate squares or alongside a bowl of fresh berries for added color and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider threading the stuffed dates onto decorative skewers for fun party bites or nestle them in little paper cups for an upscale touch at showers and celebrations. For a seated dinner, place two dates on each guest’s bread plate as a sweet welcome or final treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle (which isn’t common!), simply place them in a single layer in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 days and are just as delicious served cold.
Freezing
While you technically can freeze these dates, the mascarpone filling may lose some of its smooth texture when thawed. If you need to make them well in advance, freeze the pitted dates and nuts separately, then assemble fresh for the best taste and creaminess.
Reheating
These bites don’t require any reheating! If you’ve chilled them, just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving so the mascarpone softens up and the flavors come alive.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese if I can’t find mascarpone?
Absolutely! Cream cheese is a good substitute, though it’s tangier than mascarpone. For a sweeter, even richer filling, try mixing ricotta with a bit of honey or extra vanilla.
Are these dates suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle are naturally gluten-free, making them an ideal treat for anyone avoiding gluten without having to tweak the recipe.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Definitely! You can prepare the dates (stuff them and add nuts) up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Drizzle with maple syrup right before serving for best texture and presentation.
Is there a way to make these vegan?
You can experiment with a non-dairy cream cheese or a thick whipped coconut cream instead of mascarpone, and ensure your maple syrup is vegan. The result will be different but still super tasty!
How do I toast the nuts for the topping?
Simply spread your nuts on a dry skillet over medium-low heat and stir frequently until fragrant and golden, about 3 to 5 minutes. Let them cool before chopping and sprinkling atop your dates.
Final Thoughts
Give these Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle a whirl next time you crave a crowd-pleasing treat that looks gorgeous but requires nearly zero effort. Whether for a special gathering or a personal indulgence, these little bites are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and your guests!
Print
Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 stuffed dates
- Category: Appetizer, Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in these sweet and creamy Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with a delightful maple drizzle – an easy and elegant appetizer or dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates (pitted)
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese (softened)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)
Ingredients:
Instructions
- Slice and Pit Dates: Slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit.
- Mascarpone Filling: Mix mascarpone and vanilla until smooth. Fill dates with mixture.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of filled dates.
- Arrange and Drizzle: Place dates on a platter and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
- Optional Salt: Sprinkle sea salt for extra flavor.
Notes
- You can prepare these up to a day ahead and refrigerate, then drizzle with maple syrup right before serving.
- Enhance with cinnamon or orange zest for added taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed date
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
