Brie stuffed dates are a sweet and cheesy treat that combines soft, creamy brie with the natural sweetness of dates. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing!
These bites are like little flavor bombs! I like to serve them warm, so the cheese melts just right. Trust me, once you start, you won’t want to stop eating them! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: Medjool dates are the star here! They’re large, sweet, and easy to open for stuffing. If you can’t find Medjool, you can use other types, but make sure they’re soft, like Deglet Noor.
Brie Cheese: I love using creamy Brie for its rich flavor. You can also substitute with Camembert if you prefer a slightly stronger taste. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese that melts well!
Walnuts: The candied walnuts add crunch and sweetness. Pecans make a great swap if you’re not a walnut fan. For a nut-free version, consider toasting some sunflower seeds instead.
How Do You Get the Brie to Melt Perfectly?
Melting Brie is all about timing! To get it perfectly gooey, preheat your oven properly. Here’s how:
- Cut the Brie into small pieces to help it melt faster.
- Bake the stuffed dates for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cheese should be soft but not runny.
- Serve them immediately for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
By following these tips, your Brie stuffed dates will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy the contrast of flavors and textures in each bite!
Brie Stuffed Dates with Candied Walnuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup walnut halves
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh thyme or parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need approximately 25 minutes to make this delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure the Brie melts perfectly when the dates are baked.
2. Prepare the Candied Walnuts:
In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add in the brown sugar. Stir it until the sugar is fully dissolved and bubbling. This will be your sweet coating for the walnuts!
3. Coat the Walnuts:
Add the walnut halves to the skillet, stirring continuously to coat them evenly with the butter and sugar mixture. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the walnuts are nicely toasted and caramelized. Once done, remove them from heat and let them cool.
4. Prepare the Dates:
While the walnuts cool, slice each Medjool date lengthwise on one side. Be careful not to cut all the way through; just create an opening to take out the pit if needed.
5. Stuff the Dates:
Take a small piece of Brie cheese and stuff it into each opened date. The creaminess of the Brie will complement the sweetness of the dates beautifully!
6. Arrange for Baking:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the stuffed dates on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each date.
7. Bake the Dates:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the Brie is softened and slightly melting.
8. Top with Candied Walnuts:
Once out of the oven, immediately top each stuffed date with a candied walnut half. This adds a delightful crunch!
9. Garnish:
Finish off by sprinkling finely chopped fresh thyme or parsley over the dates for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Brie stuffed dates warm as an elegant appetizer or a delicious party snack. Get ready for oohs and aahs from your guests!
Enjoy this perfect combination of sweet dates, creamy Brie, and crunchy candied walnuts!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie is delicious, you can also try Camembert for a stronger flavor or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the stuffed dates in advance and store them in the fridge. Just assemble them without baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, bake them as instructed!
Can I Substitute the Walnuts?
Yes! If you prefer a different nut, pecans work wonderfully. For nut-free options, try using sunflower seeds or even skipping the nuts for a simpler bite.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave until just heated through, being careful not to overcook the Brie.
