Savory Spiced Date and Goat Cheese Bites

These Savory Spiced Date and Goat Cheese Bites are a delightful fusion of sweet, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors. The combination of plump dates stuffed with tangy goat cheese, rolled in crushed nuts, and seasoned with aromatic spices creates a bite-sized treat that is sure to impress.

Perfect as an appetizer or a party snack, these bites are not only easy to prepare but also beautifully presentable. The contrasting textures of the chewy dates and creamy cheese, along with the crunchy nut coating, make each bite a satisfying experience.

Savory Spiced Date and Goat Cheese Bites

Serves: 12 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes 10 minutes

Nutrition facts: 120 calories 8g fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

INGREDIENTS

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted
• 4 oz goat cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice each date lengthwise to create an opening, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Stuff each date with a generous amount of the spiced goat cheese mixture.
5. In a plate, combine the finely chopped walnuts and pecans. Roll each stuffed date in the nut mixture until fully coated.
6. Place the coated dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the dates are warm and the nuts are slightly toasted.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Storage: Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or warmed up in the oven.

For an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the goat cheese mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the nuts with seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds. These bites can be made ahead of time; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and serve them chilled or at room temperature.

Try pairing these bites with a sweet balsamic reduction for dipping; it enhances the flavor profile beautifully!