6 ways with stuffed dates

Christmas is a time for indulgence, and what better way to treat your taste buds than with stuffed dates? These bite-sized delights are not only incredibly delicious but also make for an elegant addition to your holiday spread. Whether you're hosting a grand soirée or a cozy gathering, stuffed dates are sure to steal the show. In this blog post, we'll explore the world of stuffed dates, from flavor combinations to presentation ideas, making your Christmas entertaining a memorable experience.

1. The Allure of Stuffed Dates: Stuffed dates are a delightful combination of sweet and savory, offering a burst of flavors and textures in every bite. These little gems are not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile. They can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even dessert, making them a perfect fit for any course in your Christmas menu.

2. Flavorful Combinations: The key to creating a memorable stuffed date dish lies in the choice of fillings. Here are a few other crowd-pleasing combinations to consider:

   1. Goat Cheese and Honey: The creamy tanginess of goat cheese pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of dates, and a drizzle of honey adds a touch of elegance.

   2. Bacon-Wrapped Dates: A classic favorite, these dates combine the richness of bacon with the sweetness of dates, offering a tantalizing contrast in flavors.

   3. Almonds and Blue Cheese: The crunch of almonds and the boldness of blue cheese create a flavor explosion that's hard to resist.

   4. Prosciutto and Mascarpone: The saltiness of prosciutto complements the creaminess of mascarpone cheese, resulting in a delightful balance of flavors.

3. Presentation Matters: When it comes to stuffed dates, presentation plays a significant role in elevating the dining experience. Consider serving them on a decorative platter with garnishes like fresh herbs, pomegranate seeds, or chopped pistachios. The contrast of colors and textures will not only make the dish visually appealing but also entice your guests to reach for more.

4. Making Stuffed Dates Ahead of Time: One of the advantages of stuffed dates is their convenience. You can prepare them ahead of time, reducing stress on the day of your Christmas gathering. Simply stuff the dates, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and bring them out when your guests arrive!

5. Dietary Considerations: For guests with dietary restrictions, it's easy to accommodate their needs when making stuffed dates. There are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options available, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delectable treats without worry.

This Christmas, add a touch of elegance and flavor to your entertaining with stuffed dates. Whether you opt for sweet or savory fillings, your guests are in for a treat. With endless possibilities for flavor combinations and stunning presentation ideas, stuffed dates are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. So, get creative, and let the joy of the season shine through your culinary delights. Happy holidays and happy stuffing!

Enjoy! 
The Steens Team x



DATE ONE - Blue cheese, honey and pistachio

• Stuff with Blue cheese
• drizzle of manuka honey
• sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios
  
  

DATE TWO - Peanut butter and jam

• Stuff with Peanut butter and Chia Jam 
• Sprinkle with Buckwheat
• Sprinkle with Dark chocolate chopped into chunky crumbs

DATE THREE – Snickers

• Stuff with 3-4 tablespoons peanut butter
• Sprinkle with toasted almonds, chopped into chunky crumbs
• Drizzle with metled dark chocolate)
• Drizzle with Manuka Honey
• Sprinkle with ⅓ teaspoon coarse salt
  
  

DATE FOUR - Pecan and Boursin

• Stuff with boursin
• Top with a pecan
• Top with a small leaf of thyme

DATE FIVE – Mascarpone and Pomegranate

• Stuff date with mascarpone
• Press date into bowl of pomegranate seeds so they stick to the mascarpone
• Sprinkle with chopped walnuts
• Drizzle with Honey
  
  

DATE SIX - Chai Spice

• Mix 1 tsp of chai spice with ½ cup of almond butter
• Stuff dates with almond butter mix and refrigerate
• Melt 1 1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1 tbsp manuka honey and 1-2 tbsp coconut oil until melted and combined
• Dip stuffed dates into chocolate
• Dust with cinnamon powder or icing sugar