Looking for the perfect bite-sized treat that’s both sweet and savory? These Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are here to steal the spotlight. With their naturally sweet, caramel-like dates paired with creamy ricotta and a crunchy pistachio topping, every bite is like a little burst of flavor heaven. The smooth, rich ricotta balances perfectly with the honey’s sweetness, and the pistachios add just the right amount of crunch and nuttiness. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a snack, these little morsels are bound to make you the star of the show. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one!
Why You’ll Love Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates
Here’s why these Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are destined to be your new favorite snack:
- Simple Yet Elegant: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a snack that feels fancy enough for a dinner party or celebration.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of the dates, creaminess of the ricotta, and crunch of the pistachios make this the ultimate flavor combo. It’s a mix of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy that’s simply irresistible.
- Healthy-ish Indulgence: Dates are naturally sweet and packed with fiber, while ricotta offers a creamy texture without being overly rich. Add in the pistachios for a boost of healthy fats, and you’ve got a treat that’s both delicious and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: These little bites come together in no time—perfect for when you want something impressive without the hassle.
- Customizable: Want to change things up? Swap the pistachios for almonds or walnuts, or drizzle some chocolate over the top. The options are endless!
Ingredients
Let’s gather the goodies for these Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates:
- Medjool Dates: The star of the show. Their natural sweetness and soft texture make them the perfect vessel for stuffing.
- Ricotta Cheese: Smooth, creamy, and mild, ricotta is the perfect filling that complements the sweet dates without overpowering them.
- Honey: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and a touch of floral flavor to the ricotta filling.
- Pistachios: Chopped pistachios bring a satisfying crunch and a nutty, slightly salty contrast to the sweetness of the dates.
- Vanilla Extract (optional): A splash of vanilla adds a warm, aromatic touch to the ricotta filling.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are available in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s get to making these sweet and savory bites!
Prepare the Dates:
Start by carefully slicing each Medjool date lengthwise and removing the pit. Be gentle with the dates, as they’re soft and can easily tear.
Make the Ricotta Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with honey and a splash of vanilla extract (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You want a creamy, slightly sweet filling that’s easy to pipe into the dates.
Stuff the Dates:
Spoon the ricotta mixture into each date, filling the center generously. You can also use a piping bag to make this step easier if you want to keep everything neat and tidy.
Top with Pistachios:
Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top of each stuffed date. The pistachios will give these treats a beautiful crunch and a nice pop of color.
Drizzle with Honey:
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little more honey over the top of each date.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once all the dates are stuffed and topped, they’re ready to serve! These bite-sized treats are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even as a sweet ending to a meal.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 12 stuffed dates
- Calories per serving: 140
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 19g
- Protein: 3g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
How to Serve Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates
These stuffed dates are super versatile and can be served in many different ways:
- As an Appetizer: Serve them on a platter as an elegant and simple appetizer for guests. They pair wonderfully with a glass of wine or champagne.
- For a Sweet Snack: Pop these in the fridge and grab one when you need a quick snack. They’re the perfect combination of sweet and satisfying.
- On a Cheese Board: Add them to your next cheese board for a sweet contrast to the savory cheeses and meats.
- As a Dessert: Serve them after dinner with a light dessert wine or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun, fresh take on dessert.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Dates: If you can, try to use fresh Medjool dates, as they’re plump and soft, making them easier to stuff. Dried dates can work too, but they’ll be a bit firmer.
- Chill the Dates: These stuffed dates can be refrigerated for about 30 minutes before serving. Chilling them makes the ricotta filling firm up slightly and adds a refreshing touch.
- Make Them Ahead: These dates are perfect for prepping ahead of time. Stuff and store them in the fridge for up to a day before serving—just add the pistachios and drizzle right before serving to keep them fresh.
- Vegan Variation: For a dairy-free version, swap the ricotta with a plant-based ricotta (such as cashew ricotta) and use maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey.
- Other Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings—chopped almonds, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of sea salt would all add delicious variety.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A1: Yes! These stuffed dates can be prepared a day in advance. Just refrigerate them and add the pistachios and honey drizzle just before serving.
Q2: Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios?
A2: Absolutely! You can substitute the pistachios with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans—whatever you prefer.
Q3: Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
A3: Yes! Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives if you want to keep these treats vegan or prefer a different sweetness.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll stay fresh, but the texture is best when eaten within a day or two.
Q5: Can I freeze these stuffed dates?
A5: While dates freeze well, these stuffed dates are best enjoyed fresh, as the ricotta filling may change texture after freezing.
Q6: How do I make sure the dates don’t tear when I slice them?
A6: Use a sharp knife and slice gently along the seam. If you’re worried about tearing, try to make the incision just deep enough to remove the pit without cutting all the way through.
Q7: Can I use regular ricotta cheese instead of part-skim?
A7: Yes, full-fat ricotta will work just fine! It will be a bit creamier, which is perfect if you prefer a richer filling.
Q8: How do I know if my pistachios are fresh?
A8: Fresh pistachios should have a vibrant green color and should smell nutty, not stale. If they’re too soft or smell off, they may have gone bad.
Q9: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A9: Yes! Swap out the ricotta for a plant-based ricotta and use maple syrup or agave in place of honey.
Q10: Can I make these stuffed dates into a dessert?
A10: Absolutely! Add a dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of dark chocolate, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to turn these into a dessert-worthy treat.
Conclusion
These Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are the perfect little bite of flavor that’ll leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick snack, adding them to a party spread, or serving them as a fancy appetizer, they’re sure to impress. With the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and nutty, these stuffed dates are destined to become a favorite. Enjoy!
Print
Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are a sweet and savory treat that combines the richness of ricotta, the crunch of pistachios, and the natural sweetness of dates. Perfect for a quick appetizer, snack, or light dessert!
Ingredients
- 12 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese (or mascarpone for a richer flavor)
- 2 tbsp honey, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 tbsp pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates:
- Slice the dates lengthwise and remove the pits.
- If the dates are a bit stiff, you can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them, making them easier to work with.
- Make the Ricotta Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and 2 tbsp of honey. Mix until smooth and creamy. If you like a touch of spice, add the ground cinnamon and mix again.
- Stuff the Dates:
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully stuff each date with the ricotta mixture, ensuring it’s filled generously but not overflowing.
- Top with Pistachios:
- Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the stuffed dates, pressing lightly so they adhere to the ricotta filling.
- Drizzle with Honey:
- Drizzle a little extra honey over the stuffed dates for added sweetness. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving for a chilled treat.
Notes
- Storage: These stuffed dates are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- Customization: For a twist, you can add a touch of orange zest to the ricotta filling or use another nut, like almonds or walnuts, instead of pistachios.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make the filling dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free ricotta alternative or cashew cream as a substitute.
- Flavor Variations: You could add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon to the ricotta for extra flavor or top the dates with other dried fruits like cranberries.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern/Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed date
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Ingredients
Let’s gather the goodies for these Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates:
- Medjool Dates: The star of the show. Their natural sweetness and soft texture make them the perfect vessel for stuffing.
- Ricotta Cheese: Smooth, creamy, and mild, ricotta is the perfect filling that complements the sweet dates without overpowering them.
- Honey: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and a touch of floral flavor to the ricotta filling.
- Pistachios: Chopped pistachios bring a satisfying crunch and a nutty, slightly salty contrast to the sweetness of the dates.
- Vanilla Extract (optional): A splash of vanilla adds a warm, aromatic touch to the ricotta filling.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are available in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s get to making these sweet and savory bites!
Prepare the Dates:
Start by carefully slicing each Medjool date lengthwise and removing the pit. Be gentle with the dates, as they’re soft and can easily tear.
Make the Ricotta Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with honey and a splash of vanilla extract (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You want a creamy, slightly sweet filling that’s easy to pipe into the dates.
Stuff the Dates:
Spoon the ricotta mixture into each date, filling the center generously. You can also use a piping bag to make this step easier if you want to keep everything neat and tidy.
Top with Pistachios:
Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top of each stuffed date. The pistachios will give these treats a beautiful crunch and a nice pop of color.
Drizzle with Honey:
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little more honey over the top of each date.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once all the dates are stuffed and topped, they’re ready to serve! These bite-sized treats are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even as a sweet ending to a meal.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 12 stuffed dates
- Calories per serving: 140
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 19g
- Protein: 3g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
How to Serve Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates
These stuffed dates are super versatile and can be served in many different ways:
- As an Appetizer: Serve them on a platter as an elegant and simple appetizer for guests. They pair wonderfully with a glass of wine or champagne.
- For a Sweet Snack: Pop these in the fridge and grab one when you need a quick snack. They’re the perfect combination of sweet and satisfying.
- On a Cheese Board: Add them to your next cheese board for a sweet contrast to the savory cheeses and meats.
- As a Dessert: Serve them after dinner with a light dessert wine or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun, fresh take on dessert.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Dates: If you can, try to use fresh Medjool dates, as they’re plump and soft, making them easier to stuff. Dried dates can work too, but they’ll be a bit firmer.
- Chill the Dates: These stuffed dates can be refrigerated for about 30 minutes before serving. Chilling them makes the ricotta filling firm up slightly and adds a refreshing touch.
- Make Them Ahead: These dates are perfect for prepping ahead of time. Stuff and store them in the fridge for up to a day before serving—just add the pistachios and drizzle right before serving to keep them fresh.
- Vegan Variation: For a dairy-free version, swap the ricotta with a plant-based ricotta (such as cashew ricotta) and use maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey.
- Other Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings—chopped almonds, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of sea salt would all add delicious variety.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A1: Yes! These stuffed dates can be prepared a day in advance. Just refrigerate them and add the pistachios and honey drizzle just before serving.
Q2: Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios?
A2: Absolutely! You can substitute the pistachios with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans—whatever you prefer.
Q3: Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
A3: Yes! Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives if you want to keep these treats vegan or prefer a different sweetness.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll stay fresh, but the texture is best when eaten within a day or two.
Q5: Can I freeze these stuffed dates?
A5: While dates freeze well, these stuffed dates are best enjoyed fresh, as the ricotta filling may change texture after freezing.
Q6: How do I make sure the dates don’t tear when I slice them?
A6: Use a sharp knife and slice gently along the seam. If you’re worried about tearing, try to make the incision just deep enough to remove the pit without cutting all the way through.
Q7: Can I use regular ricotta cheese instead of part-skim?
A7: Yes, full-fat ricotta will work just fine! It will be a bit creamier, which is perfect if you prefer a richer filling.
Q8: How do I know if my pistachios are fresh?
A8: Fresh pistachios should have a vibrant green color and should smell nutty, not stale. If they’re too soft or smell off, they may have gone bad.
Q9: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A9: Yes! Swap out the ricotta for a plant-based ricotta and use maple syrup or agave in place of honey.
Q10: Can I make these stuffed dates into a dessert?
A10: Absolutely! Add a dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of dark chocolate, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to turn these into a dessert-worthy treat.
Conclusion
These Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are the perfect little bite of flavor that’ll leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick snack, adding them to a party spread, or serving them as a fancy appetizer, they’re sure to impress. With the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and nutty, these stuffed dates are destined to become a favorite. Enjoy!