Growing up in a small town in Vermont, Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates were a staple at every holiday gathering and community potluck. I can still remember the warm, comforting aroma of maple syrup and the rich, creamy filling as my grandma would bring out a platter of these Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates. It was like a little taste of heaven in each bite! Whenever I’d visit her, I’d always make sure to sneak a few extra from the tray before they disappeared. These Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates were the talk of the town – everyone raved about them and begged Grandma for the recipe. Now, as an experienced home cook, I’m excited to share my own take on this beloved classic.
Why This Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates
What makes this Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates recipe so special is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The cool, creamy mascarpone filling is the perfect complement to the sticky-sweet maple glaze. And the chewy, caramelized dates provide a delightful contrast in texture. Plus, this recipe is incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Trust me, once you try these Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates, they’ll become your go-to entertaining dish or anytime snack.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Medjool dates
- Mascarpone cheese
- Maple syrup
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Sea salt
Step-by-Step Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Instructions
Preparing Your Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates
This Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates recipe is incredibly easy to make, with just a handful of ingredients and a total time of under 30 minutes. All you’ll need is a small bowl, a spoon, and a baking sheet. Let’s get started!
1- First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2- Slice each Medjool date down the center, being careful not to cut all the way through. Use your fingers to gently open up the date and remove the pit.
3- In a small bowl, mix together the mascarpone cheese, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon and sea salt until well combined.
4- Spoon a small amount of the mascarpone mixture into the center of each pitted date, about 1-2 teaspoons per date.
5- Arrange the stuffed dates on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle the remaining maple syrup over the top.
6- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the dates are slightly softened and the mascarpone is warmed through. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates is using high-quality, soft Medjool dates. Avoid dates that are too dry or shriveled, as they won’t be as plump and juicy. Also, be sure not to overstuff the dates – a small amount of the creamy mascarpone filling is all you need. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the flavors! Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts on top.
Serving and Storing Your Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates
Perfect Pairings for Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates
These Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates make a fantastic appetizer or dessert. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or a warm cup of coffee. For a more substantial pairing, try serving them alongside a cheese board, charcuterie platter, or mixed green salad.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. You can also make the stuffed dates in advance and bake them just before serving. The mascarpone filling can be prepared up to 3 days ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to assemble.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates
Creative Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Variations
For a festive twist, try rolling the stuffed dates in finely chopped pistachios or drizzling them with a balsamic glaze. You could also experiment with different fillings, like goat cheese, cream cheese, or even a savory herb-infused mixture. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, you could top the Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with a sprinkle of crumbled bacon or a pinch of sea salt flakes.
Making Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply ensure that the mascarpone cheese and maple syrup you’re using are certified gluten-free. For a vegan version, you can substitute the mascarpone with a cashew-based cream cheese or a plant-based ricotta. And for a lower-carb option, you can use a sugar-free maple syrup or swap the dates for fresh figs or apricots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mascarpone?
A: Absolutely! Cream cheese or ricotta cheese would also work well as a filling for these Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates.
Q: How do I know when the dates are done baking?
A: The dates are ready when they’re slightly softened and the mascarpone filling is warmed through, about 10-12 minutes in the oven. You’ll also see the maple syrup bubbling and caramelizing around the edges.
Q: Can I make these Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed dates up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to keep the mascarpone filling and the dates separate until you’re ready to assemble.
Q: How many Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates should I serve per person?
A: As an appetizer, plan for 2-3 Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates per person. If serving them as a dessert or alongside other dishes, 1-2 per person should be sufficient.
Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 24
Description
Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and savory with these Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates – a quick and irresistible appetizer or dessert!
Ingredients
– 12 Medjool dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup, plus more for drizzling
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
1. – Slice the dates in half lengthwise and carefully remove the pits.
2. – In a small bowl, mix together the mascarpone cheese and 2 tablespoons of maple syrup until well combined.
3. – Spoon or pipe the mascarpone mixture into the center of each date half.
4. – Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving plate and drizzle with additional maple syrup.
5. – Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For a festive touch, you can sprinkle the stuffed dates with chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon. These are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer, Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates are a true crowd-pleaser, combining the sweetness of maple syrup, the creaminess of mascarpone, and the chewy, caramelized texture of the dates. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, entertaining guests, or simply looking for a delicious snack, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So what are you waiting for? Give these Maple-Drizzled Mascarpone Stuffed Dates a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!
