Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle will become your new favorite dessert:
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes, this dessert requires minimal prep and cook time, making it perfect for a last-minute treat.
- Naturally Sweet – The dates provide a naturally sweet base, while the mascarpone cheese offers a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the maple syrup.
- Clean-Eating Friendly – Made with wholesome ingredients like Medjool dates, mascarpone, and maple syrup, this dessert is a great choice for anyone following a clean-eating lifestyle.
- Decadent Yet Light – While the flavors are rich and indulgent, this dessert is lighter than traditional pecan pie, making it perfect for those craving a sweet treat without the heaviness.
- Customizable – You can add extra toppings like sea salt, cinnamon, or even a touch of dark chocolate to elevate the flavor profile.
This dessert is not only delicious but also quick and simple, making it an excellent addition to any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans
- 24 Medjool dates, pitted
- 6 oz mascarpone cheese
- 2 tablespoons Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup
Directions
1. Prepare the Dates:
- Preheat the oven broiler and move the oven rack to the top position.
- Slice the Medjool dates lengthwise to remove the pit, creating an opening for the filling.
2. Stuff the Dates:
- Fill each date with mascarpone cheese, making sure it’s generously stuffed but not overflowing.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of the mascarpone in each date.
3. Drizzle with Maple Syrup:
- Place the stuffed dates on a lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle each date with Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup for added sweetness and flavor.
4. Broil to Perfection:
- Broil the dates for 3 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Watch them carefully to avoid burning.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the dates to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
6. Store:
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 stuffed dates (serves 6-8)
- Preparation Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
This dessert is incredibly quick and easy to prepare, perfect for when you’re craving something sweet without much effort.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes! You can use cream cheese or goat cheese as an alternative to mascarpone for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed dates in advance, then broil them just before serving.
3. Can I add other toppings to the dates?
Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle a pinch of sea salt, cinnamon, or even drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top for extra richness.
4. Can I use a different nut besides pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used in place of pecans for a different flavor and texture.
5. Can I make these dates vegan?
For a vegan version, substitute mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese, and use maple syrup without honey.
6. Can I use regular syrup instead of maple syrup?
Yes, you can use regular syrup, but maple syrup adds a distinctive flavor that complements the mascarpone cheese beautifully.
7. Are Medjool dates the only kind of dates I can use?
Medjool dates are the best for this recipe due to their size and soft, sweet texture, but you can use other types of dates if you prefer.
8. How do I prevent the mascarpone from spilling out?
Stuff the dates gently but firmly. If necessary, you can slightly freeze the mascarpone before stuffing it to help it stay in place.
9. Can I serve these dates with something else?
These dates would pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
10. How long will these stuffed dates last?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, they will last up to 3 days, although they are best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle are a delightful dessert that blends the natural sweetness of dates with rich mascarpone cheese and the perfect hint of crunch from the pecans. With a quick 10-minute prep and cook time, these dates make for an impressive yet simple treat that’s sure to wow your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth experience!
Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle: A Heavenly, Sweet Treat
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 stuffed dates
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle is a simple yet decadent dessert featuring the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese, paired with the natural sweetness of Medjool dates and topped with warm maple syrup. This easy-to-make, clean-eating treat is reminiscent of pecan pie, making it a perfect indulgence without the heaviness.
Ingredients
1/4 cup finely chopped pecans
24 Medjool dates, pitted
6 oz mascarpone cheese
2 tablespoons Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: Preheat the oven broiler and move the oven rack to the top position. Slice the Medjool dates lengthwise to remove the pit, creating an opening for the filling.
- Stuff the Dates: Fill each date with mascarpone cheese, making sure it’s generously stuffed but not overflowing. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of the mascarpone in each date.
- Drizzle with Maple Syrup: Place the stuffed dates on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle each date with Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup for added sweetness and flavor.
- Broil to Perfection: Broil the dates for 3 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Watch them carefully to avoid burning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dates to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
- Store: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
You can swap mascarpone for cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor.
For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt, cinnamon, or drizzle dark chocolate over the dates.
These dates are great on their own or paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed date
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
