Name: Irresistible Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Medjool Dates (Pitted for easy filling); 8 oz Mascarpone Cheese (Cream cheese can be used for a tangy twist); 1/2 cup Pecans (Finely chopped; substitute with walnuts for a different flavor profile); 2 tbsp Grade A Dark Amber Maple Syrup (Honey can be a great alternative)

In the quiet moments of a bustling kitchen, the warm aroma of roasted pecans drifts through the air, beckoning me to create something special. Today, I’m excited to share my Quick Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle—a dessert that elevates simplicity to an art form. With just four ingredients, this gluten-free and Paleo-friendly treat can be prepped in under 10 minutes, making it a delightful option for unexpected guests or a sweet finish to a busy day. Imagine the creamy mascarpone melding perfectly with chewy Medjool dates and crunchy pecans—all kissed with a hint of luscious maple syrup. It’s a healthier homage to pecan pie that’s sure to impress! Ready to indulge in a quick and guilt-free dessert that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat? Let’s dive in!

Why Try Mascarpone Stuffed Dates?

Indulgent and guilt-free, these mascarpone stuffed dates are a dessert lover’s dream. Quick to whip up, with only four ingredients, they are perfect for spontaneous gatherings or a sweet treat at home. Versatile for any occasion, you can serve them as a festive appetizer or a delightful dessert. Flavor-packed, the contrast of creamy mascarpone, chewy dates, and crunchy pecans drizzled with maple syrup creates a symphony of taste reminiscent of pecan pie. Looking for more easy recipes? Check out my Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies or Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers for quick, savory options!

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Ingredients

• Whip up this luscious treat with just four simple ingredients!

For the Dates

Medjool Dates – Naturally sweet and chewy, these are the star of your dish; choose pitted for easy filling.

For the Filling

Mascarpone Cheese – This rich, creamy delight serves as the perfect filling; cream cheese can be used for a tangy twist.

For the Topping

Pecans – Finely chopped, they add a delightful crunch; substitute with walnuts for a different flavor profile.
Grade A Dark Amber Maple Syrup – A naturally sweet drizzle that elevates the flavor; honey can be a great alternative.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to broil, adjusting the rack to the top position. This step is crucial for achieving that beautifully golden finish on your Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle. Once the oven is hot, gather your ingredients and prepare for the next steps, ensuring everything is within reach for a smooth workflow.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates
Take your pitted Medjool dates and slice them lengthwise down the middle, creating a pocket for the filling. Make sure to carefully remove any lingering pits if your dates are not pre-pitted. Visually, you want the dates to open up just enough to hold a generous spoonful of mascarpone cheese.

Step 3: Fill with Mascarpone
Using a small spoon or a piping bag, generously fill each date with rich mascarpone cheese. This creamy texture will complement the sweetness of the dates perfectly. After filling, sprinkle a handful of finely chopped pecans over each stuffed date, allowing the nuts to nestle into the mascarpone for added crunch and flavor.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the filled dates onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange them spaced apart so they can broil evenly. Drizzle a touch of Grade A Dark Amber Maple Syrup over the stuffed dates, enhancing their sweetness and ensuring a delightful caramel-like richness once they are broiled.

Step 5: Broil the Dates
Carefully slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and broil the dates for about 3 minutes. Keep a close watch, as broiling can quickly go from golden to burnt. You want the tops to be lightly browned and bubbly, creating that enticing golden hue indicative of perfectly broiled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once broiled, remove the dates from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for about 2 minutes. This brief cooling time lets the flavors meld beautifully while preventing any burning from hot cheese. Serve the dates warm or at room temperature, displaying them on a lovely platter for an inviting presentation.

Expert Tips for Mascarpone Stuffed Dates

Quality Ingredients: Use the freshest Medjool dates and high-quality mascarpone for the best flavor. Store brands sometimes lack that creamy richness.
Watch the Broiling: Keep an eye on the dates while broiling—3 minutes is all it takes! Too long, and they can burn quickly.
Chill Before Serving: Let the stuffed dates sit for a few minutes after broiling. This allows flavors to meld and helps avoid potential burns from the hot cheese.
Experiment with Nuts: While pecans add great flavor, don’t hesitate to try walnuts or even almonds for a unique twist. Each nut brings its own character to the dish!
Sweetness Control: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup drizzled based on your sweetness preference. You could also use honey for a different sweetness profile.

Make Ahead Options

These Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the dates by filling them with mascarpone cheese and chopped pecans up to 24 hours in advance—simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. To prevent the pecans from losing their crunch, add them right before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, arrange the stuffed dates on a baking sheet, drizzle with maple syrup, and broil for about 3 minutes until golden. This simple make-ahead strategy ensures you’ll have a delightful dessert or appetizer without the added last-minute stress, allowing you to focus on what really matters—enjoying time with loved ones!

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Variations

Feel free to let your imagination run wild as you customize these delightful treats! Transform them into your own masterpiece with just a few simple swaps.

Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone with a vegan cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free option that’s still rich and creamy.
Nut-Free: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of pecans for those with nut allergies. They add a nice crunch too!
Balsamic Drizzle: Swap maple syrup with a rich balsamic glaze for a tangy, savory twist that brightens the sweetness of the dates.
Spiced Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mascarpone for a warm spice that complements the sweet ingredients beautifully.
Vanilla Boost: Enhance the mascarpone with a splash of vanilla extract for an aromatic depth that lingers with every bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: Finish with a dark chocolate drizzle for an indulgent touch that pairs exquisitely with the sweetness of the dates.
Stuffing Twist: Fill your dates with a mixture of mascarpone and a hint of orange zest for a vibrant citrus pop!
Savory Touch: For an unexpected savory option, consider mixing in crumbled feta cheese with the mascarpone for a deliciously unique flavor profile.

No matter how you choose to tweak this recipe, each variation will take these Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle to a new level of deliciousness—so dive in and enjoy creating! And for more delightful recipes, don’t miss my Pumpkin Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting or Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting.

What to Serve with Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle

Elevate your gathering with delightful accompaniments that perfectly balance the sweet, creamy flavors of your delicious treats.

Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of berries and citrus adds a refreshing burst that complements the richness of the dates.
Honey Yogurt Dip: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey provides a luscious contrast, enhancing the sweet and nutty flavors within each stuffed date.
Charcuterie Board: Pair with assorted cheeses and cured meats for a savory touch, creating an exciting balance between sweet and salty bites.
Herbed Cheese Spread: A tangy, herb-infused cheese spread will introduce a savory note, harmonizing beautifully with the sweetness of the mascarpone and dates.
Dark Chocolate Fondue: Rich, melted chocolate allows for a decadent dipping experience, adding indulgence to your dessert while beautifully accentuating the flavors.
Chai Tea or Coffee: Sip on spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee to elevate the experience, with warmth and hints of spice that beautifully round out the dish’s sweetness.

Each of these pairings not only enhances the flavors of the Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle but also creates a memorable dining experience that your guests will love.

How to Store and Freeze Mascarpone Stuffed Dates

Fridge: Keep any leftover mascarpone stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their creamy texture and flavor.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for stuffed dates, if you must, wrap each date individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 1 month, but may lose some texture.

Reheating: If enjoying leftovers, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore warmth without compromising the filling’s creaminess.

Room Temperature: For serving, these delicious treats can be left at room temperature for up to 2 hours, making them perfect for gatherings or parties.

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe FAQs

What type of dates should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely go for Medjool dates! They’re known for their natural sweetness and chewy texture, making them the perfect base for your mascarpone filling. If you can find pre-pitted dates, that’s a big time-saver, but if not, simply slice them lengthwise and remove the pit before filling.

How should I store leftovers?
Very easily! Store any leftover mascarpone stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their creamy texture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply let them sit at room temperature for a little while or give them a brief warm-up in the oven.

Can I freeze mascarpone stuffed dates?
While I recommend enjoying them fresh, you can freeze them if necessary. To do this, wrap each stuffed date individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, and if you’d like, gently reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.

What if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?
Not a problem at all! You can easily substitute the mascarpone with cream cheese for a tangier flavor or even goat cheese for something a bit more adventurous. Just make sure to soften it a little before filling the dates to keep that lovely creamy texture.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
Feeling flexible? You can adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preference! Drizzle just a little for a light touch of sweetness, or go all out for a more decadent treat. You could also switch maple syrup for honey if you prefer that flavor profile.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
These mascarpone stuffed dates are gluten-free and Paleo-friendly, making them suitable for many dietary preferences. However, if you’re serving them to guests, be mindful of potential nut allergies since they contain pecans. You might offer a nut-free version using seeds or leave the nuts out altogether—it’s still delightful!