Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect blend of textures and flavors—soft, chewy dates filled with creamy ricotta, topped with crunchy pistachios, and finished with a sweet honey drizzle. They are simple to prepare, requiring no cooking, and make for an impressive snack, appetizer, or dessert. Plus, they’re naturally sweet and can be made in under 10 minutes, making them a go-to for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Dates:
Slice each date lengthwise on one side and gently open it, being careful not to split the date completely in half. - Make the Ricotta Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with cinnamon, if using. - Stuff the Dates:
Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of ricotta cheese. - Add Pistachios:
Top the ricotta with chopped pistachios, gently pressing them into the ricotta. - Drizzle with Honey:
Drizzle each stuffed date with honey for a touch of sweetness. - Optional Garnish:
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top if desired, adding a savory contrast to the sweetness. - Serve or Chill:
Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 12 stuffed dates (2 per serving)
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 0 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based ricotta and agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
- Extra Flavor: Toast the pistachios lightly before chopping them to bring out a richer flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the ricotta for a warming, spiced flavor.
- Fruit Twist: Add a few slices of fresh pear or apple for a refreshing contrast.
Storage/reheating
- Storage: These stuffed dates can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- Refrigeration: Chilling the stuffed dates enhances their flavors, so feel free to make them ahead of time.
- Serving: Best served chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these can be made up to 1 day ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavors will meld together nicely after chilling.
Are these dates gluten-free?
Yes, Medjool dates are naturally gluten-free, and the other ingredients in this recipe are as well.
Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
Yes, you can substitute pistachios with chopped almonds, walnuts, or even pecans for a different flavor.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can substitute ricotta with mascarpone cheese, though it will change the texture slightly.
Are these dates suitable for kids?
Yes, they make a great snack for kids, as long as there are no nut allergies.
Conclusion
Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are a quick, easy, and elegant treat that will impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth. The creamy ricotta, crunchy pistachios, and sweet honey create a mouthwatering combination that’s perfect for any occasion, from a simple snack to a sophisticated appetizer or dessert.
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Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed dates (2 per serving)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are an elegant and easy appetizer or dessert bite. They combine creamy ricotta cheese, crunchy pistachios, and a drizzle of honey, making them the perfect sweet and savory treat.
Ingredients
12 Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of sea salt (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: Slice each date lengthwise on one side and gently open it, being careful not to split it completely in half.
- Make the Ricotta Filling: In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with cinnamon, if using.
- Stuff the Dates: Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of ricotta cheese.
- Add Pistachios: Top the ricotta with chopped pistachios, gently pressing them into the ricotta.
- Drizzle with Honey: Drizzle each stuffed date with honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top if desired, adding a savory contrast to the sweetness.
- Serve or Chill: Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
Notes
For a vegan version, use plant-based ricotta and agave syrup instead of honey.
Toast the pistachios lightly for a richer flavor.
Add cardamom or nutmeg to the ricotta for extra warmth and spice.
For a fruity twist, try adding slices of fresh pear or apple.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed date
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg