Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe

Quick & Sweet Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe

Mascarpone stuffed dates capture the essence of indulgent yet effortless entertaining.

Luxurious soft cheese enhances ordinary dried fruit into an extraordinary snack that whispers gourmet sophistication.

These delectable morsels blend sweet and creamy textures in one irresistible bite.

Elegant ingredients work together harmoniously, creating a balance between richness and subtle complexity.

Small details elevate simple components into something truly memorable and impressive.

Minimal preparation ensures maximum flavor, making these little treats a secret weapon for culinary success.

Pairing Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Wine

  • Create a Wine Wonderland: Pair these decadent dates with a crisp, sweet Riesling or a light Moscato to complement the maple's richness and balance the creamy mascarpone.
  • Craft a Cocktail Companion: Mix a bourbon-based old fashioned or a maple whiskey cocktail that echoes the sweet maple notes and provides a warming contrast to the cool mascarpone.
  • Design a Cheese Board Harmony: Serve alongside a soft blue cheese, aged gouda, or tangy chèvre to create a sophisticated appetizer spread that highlights the dates' sweet and creamy profile.
  • Build a Nutty Beverage Boost: Enjoy with a hazelnut or almond milk latte, which will enhance the pecan crunch and provide a complementary nutty undertone to the dessert.

Fun Variations of Mascarpone Stuffed Dates

  • Nutty Chocolate Drizzle: Replace maple syrup with melted dark chocolate and sprinkle chopped almonds instead of pecans for a rich, decadent version.
  • Honey Goat Cheese Edition: Swap mascarpone with creamy goat cheese and drizzle local honey over the dates for a tangy, sweet alternative.
  • Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the mascarpone filling and use pistachios as a crunchy topping for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.
  • Spiced Caramel Crunch: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the mascarpone and top with caramel sauce and toasted walnuts for a warm, aromatic experience.

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle: A Sweet Indulgence

  • Quick Sweet Indulgence: Elevate simple dates into a luxurious dessert with minimal effort, creating an elegant treat that looks impressive but takes just minutes to prepare.
  • Rich Flavor Contrast: Combine creamy mascarpone's smooth texture with sweet dates and crunchy pecans, delivering a delightful multi-layered taste experience that surprises the palate.
  • Versatile Party Pleaser: Perfect for entertaining, these stuffed dates work brilliantly as appetizers, desserts, or sophisticated snacks that can be prepared ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature.
  • Healthier Decadence: Offer a relatively low-calorie dessert option packed with natural sugars, healthy fats from pecans, and a touch of maple sweetness without excessive guilt.

Key Ingredients for Mascarpone Stuffed Dates

Fruit Base:
  • Medjool Dates: Sweet, plump dates that create the perfect vessel for stuffing with soft cheese and provide a natural caramel-like flavor.
Cheese and Filling:
  • Mascarpone Cheese: Creamy Italian cheese that offers a rich, smooth texture for stuffing the dates.
Topping and Drizzle:
  • Pecans, Chopped: Crunchy nuts that add texture and nutty depth to the stuffed dates.
  • Maple Syrup: Sweet, golden syrup that provides a rich caramelized finish and enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Make Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare Oven for Broiling

Set the oven broiler to high and position the rack at the top level. This ensures perfect golden-brown edges on your delightful stuffed dates.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates

Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise, gently removing the pit to create a cozy space for filling. Use a sharp knife for clean, precise cuts.

Step 3: Fill with Creamy Mascarpone

Grab a small spoon or piping bag and generously fill each date with smooth mascarpone cheese. Ensure the cheese reaches into every nook and cranny.

Step 4: Add Nutty Crunch

Sprinkle finely chopped pecans over the stuffed dates, creating a delightful textural contrast between the creamy cheese and crunchy nuts.

Step 5: Arrange and Drizzle

Place the stuffed dates on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle maple syrup generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides.

Step 6: Broil to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Broil for exactly 3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Look for a light golden color that promises delicious caramelization.

Step 7: Serve and Store

Let the dates cool slightly for a few minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature for maximum flavor. Store any remaining treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips for Perfect Mascarpone Stuffed Dates

  • Pit Perfectly: Carefully slice dates lengthwise, ensuring a clean opening for smooth mascarpone filling without tearing the delicate fruit.
  • Cheese Consistency: Bring mascarpone to room temperature for easier spreading and a creamy, velvety texture that fills dates effortlessly.
  • Toasting Technique: Watch dates closely under the broiler to achieve a golden-brown caramelization without burning, which can happen quickly.
  • Nut Crunch Trick: Finely chop pecans to distribute evenly, creating a balanced texture and preventing large chunks from falling off.
  • Serve Smart: Allow dates to cool slightly after broiling to let flavors meld and prevent burning your mouth while maintaining a warm, inviting temperature.

Storing and Reheating Mascarpone Stuffed Dates

  • Refrigeration: Carefully transfer the stuffed dates into an airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Seal the container tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping the delicate flavors and texture intact.
  • Reheating: Gently warm the dates in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring even heating. Watch carefully to prevent overcooking and maintain the mascarpone's creamy consistency.
  • Serving Tip: Remove the dates from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to allow them to come to room temperature. This helps restore their original softness and allows the maple drizzle and mascarpone to reach their most delicious state.
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Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe


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4.8 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Sweet Italian mascarpone stuffed dates offer a luxurious dessert experience that balances creamy richness with natural fruit sweetness. Maple syrup glazes these elegant morsels, creating an irresistible treat you can savor in just one delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 24 Medjool dates, pitted
  • 6 ounces (170 grams) mascarpone cheese

Garnish:

  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) finely chopped pecans

Drizzle:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Position the oven broiler rack at the highest setting, ensuring optimal heat distribution for caramelization.
  2. Carefully split each Medjool date lengthwise, gently removing the pit to create a delicate pocket for filling.
  3. Delicately spoon or pipe creamy mascarpone cheese into the opened date cavities, ensuring a generous but not overflowing fill.
  4. Finely chop raw pecans and generously sprinkle the nutty pieces over the cheese-filled dates, adding a delightful textural contrast.
  5. Arrange the stuffed dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet, maintaining slight separation between each piece.
  6. Drizzle pure maple syrup over the dates, allowing the sweet liquid to cascade gently across the surface.
  7. Place the baking sheet under the broiler, watching intently for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges turn a light golden brown and the maple syrup begins to caramelize.
  8. Remove from the oven and allow the dates to rest for 2-3 minutes, letting the filling slightly cool and flavors meld together.
  9. Serve immediately while warm, or allow to cool to room temperature for a different textural experience.
  10. Store any remaining dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, gently rewarming before serving if desired.

Notes

  • Elevate your appetizer game with these luxurious bite-sized delights that combine creamy mascarpone, sweet dates, and a nutty crunch.
  • Medjool dates serve as the perfect vessel for rich, smooth mascarpone cheese, creating a decadent treat that balances sweetness and texture.
  • Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor, transforming these simple stuffed dates into an elegant party favorite.
  • Maple syrup drizzle brings a golden caramelized finish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the dates and creating a glossy, irresistible appearance.
  • Quick broiling method creates a light caramelization without compromising the delicate texture of the dates, ensuring a perfect balance of warmth and softness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Broiling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 133
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 5 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 1.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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