Name: Delicious Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 13 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Medjool Dates (Pitted); 8 oz Mascarpone Cheese (Can substitute with cream cheese); 1/2 cup Pecans (Finely chopped, can substitute with walnuts or almonds); 1/4 cup Grade A Dark Amber Maple Syrup (Honey can be used as an alternative)

As I peeled open the plump Medjool dates, the sweet aroma wafted through my kitchen, inviting an unmistakable sense of comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my twist on a beloved classic: Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle. This delightfully healthy dessert combines the rich creaminess of mascarpone cheese with the chewy sweetness of dates, topped off with a luxurious maple drizzle that takes just four ingredients and 10 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for those hectic days when you crave something indulgent yet guilt-free. Not only is this treat gluten-free and paleo-friendly, but it also offers a fantastic way to impress your guests or satisfy a late-night sweet tooth without the fuss. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive in!

Why are you going to love these dates?

Simplicity at Its Finest: With only four ingredients and 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is a breeze, making it the perfect go-to for quick indulgence.
Decadence Meets Health: Enjoy the creamy mascarpone paired with sweet Medjool dates for a dessert that feels luxurious, yet is gluten-free and paleo-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These stuffed dates are visually impressive, making them ideal for gatherings or a refined cheese and charcuterie board.
Endless Variations: Want to mix it up? Try substituting pecans with pistachios, or drizzle with balsamic vinegar for an exciting savory twist. If you’re also in the mood for something warm and cheesy, check out my Chicken Stuffed Crescent or the creamy goodness of Seafood Stuffed Shells.
Irresistible Texture: Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures: chewy, creamy, and crunchy—your taste buds will thank you!

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Ingredients

For the Stuffing
• Medjool Dates – The star of the show, these dates provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture; choose pitted for easy stuffing.
• Mascarpone Cheese – Adds a rich and creamy texture; if you’re in a pinch, substitute with cream cheese for a different flavor.

For the Topping
• Pecans – Finely chopped to deliver a satisfying crunch, mimicking the essence of pecan pie; feel free to swap with walnuts or almonds if desired.
• Grade A Dark Amber Maple Syrup – This sweetener enhances the flavors beautifully; honey can be used as an alternative for a different sweet profile.

Elevate your dessert table with these Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle, ideal for impressing guests or satisfying your sweet tooth!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Broiler
Begin by preheating your oven to broil and adjusting the rack to the top position. This will ensure that your Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle receive the perfect amount of heat for a beautifully caramelized topping. Allow the oven to preheat for about 5 minutes while you prepare the dates.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise, creating an opening for the filling. Make sure to remove the pit if it hasn’t been already. The goal is to create a pocket to hold the creamy filling. You should see the luscious texture of the sticky dates as you open them up, ready to be filled.

Step 3: Stuff with Mascarpone
Generously spoon mascarpone cheese into each opened date, filling them until they are nicely packed. The smooth and creamy consistency of the mascarpone will contrast beautifully with the chewy dates. For a bit of texture, you can also add a sprinkle of chopped pecans between the layers of cheese.

Step 4: Add Pecans and Maple Syrup
Once all the dates are stuffed, sprinkle the finely chopped pecans on top of each filled date. This crunchy topping mimics the classic elements of pecan pie. Afterward, place the stuffed dates on a lined baking sheet and drizzle them generously with grade A dark amber maple syrup, letting it pool around for extra sweetness.

Step 5: Broil to Golden Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and broil for approximately 3 minutes. Keep a close watch, as you want the tops of the dates to turn a gorgeous golden brown without burning. The syrup should bubble lightly, giving off an inviting aroma as they cook.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
After broiling, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dates cool for a couple of minutes. This step allows the syrup to thicken slightly and everything to settle. Serve your warm Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle either warm or at room temperature for a delightful dessert experience.

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Variations

Feel free to make these stuffed dates your own with exciting twists and substitutions that awaken your taste buds!

Pistachios: Swap pecans for pistachios to add a unique flavor and a pop of color.
Honey Drizzle: Use honey in place of maple syrup for a different sweetness that shines through.
Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mascarpone for a warm, spiced surprise.
Savory Twist: Drizzle with aged balsamic vinegar instead of maple syrup for a savory-sweet contrast that’s unexpected and delightful.
Coconut Flakes: Top with toasted coconut flakes for an extra crunch and tropical flair.
Cream Cheese: If mascarpone is hard to find, consider using cream cheese instead for a slightly tangy alternative.
Chili Flakes: For those who love a kick, sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes over the dates before broiling for a subtle heat.
Chocolate Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an indulgent touch that adds elegance to your dessert.

Feeling inspired? While you’re at it, check out my Bacon Ranch Stuffed recipe for a heartier option, or satisfy your sweet tooth with my delightful Yogurt Peanut Butter treats!

How to Store and Freeze Mascarpone Stuffed Dates

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help keep your mascarpone stuffed dates fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze stuffed dates individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen dates, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.

Reheating: If desired, broil thawed dates for about 2 minutes to regain their warm, delicious texture before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle are perfect for meal prep and can save you so much time on busy days! You can prepare the dates by stuffing them with mascarpone and sprinkling the pecans on top up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dessert, just drizzle the maple syrup over the stuffed dates and broil them for about 3 minutes for that perfect golden finish. This approach ensures you’ll have a scrumptious, restaurant-quality treat with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!

What to Serve with Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle

Enhance your dessert experience with delightful pairings that create a well-rounded meal and impress every palate.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve alongside for a comforting contrast—rich, buttery, and smooth, these potatoes balance the sweetness of the dates.
Arugula Salad: This fresh, peppery salad with vinaigrette adds brightness, cutting through the dessert’s richness and elevating the meal’s elegance.
Cheese Board: Pair with a selection of creamy brie, sharp cheddar, and tangy goat cheese for a sophisticated appetizer that tantalizes the taste buds before dessert.
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Roasted sprouts drizzled in balsamic offer a savory note that complements the sweet mascarpone stuffed dates beautifully.
Pecan Pie Cocktail: This indulgent drink combines bourbon and pecans, echoing the flavors found in your sweet treat for a cocktail that’s perfect for celebrations.
Chocolate Drizzled Strawberries: Fresh berries dressed in dark chocolate make for a refreshing, sweet option that adds a pop of color and flavor alongside your dessert.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm dates, adding a delightful contrast in temperature and texture for a truly indulgent moment.

Expert Tips for Mascarpone Stuffed Dates

Watch the Broiler: Always keep an eye on the dates while broiling to prevent burning. They can quickly go from perfect to charred in seconds!
Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality mascarpone and pure maple syrup. The flavors will greatly enhance your Mascarpone Stuffed Dates.
Pecan Alternatives: If you prefer a different flavor or texture, try using walnuts or pistachios instead of pecans; both add a delightful crunch!
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed dates in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to broil. Just add the syrup right before cooking for optimal freshness.
Cleanup Made Easy: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup a breeze after broiling these delicious treats.

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Maple Drizzle Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Medjool dates?
Absolutely! Look for dates that are plump, shiny, and have a slightly sticky texture. They should be firm to the touch, with no dark spots all over, which indicate overripeness. Selecting pitted ones saves you the hassle of removing the pit yourself, making preparation much easier.

How should I store leftovers of Mascarpone Stuffed Dates?
Very simply! Place any leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful texture and taste, so you can enjoy them later!

Can I freeze Mascarpone Stuffed Dates?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them individually until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. This method prevents them from sticking together, making them easy to grab when you have a craving!

What is the best way to thaw and reheat frozen dates?
To thaw frozen dates, move them to the refrigerator and let them sit overnight. This gentle thawing process maintains their texture beautifully. If you’d like to enjoy them warm, reheat them gently in the microwave for just a few seconds or broil them for about 2 minutes. This step revives that warm, inviting contrast of textures and flavors!

Are there any dietary considerations when making this dessert?
Of course! This recipe is gluten-free and paleo-friendly, making it accessible to many dietary preferences. However, if you or your guests have a nut allergy, consider omitting the pecans or replacing them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially for pre-packaged items like mascarpone or syrup.

What should I do if my dates don’t seem to hold the mascarpone well?
If your dates are having trouble holding the mascarpone filling, you might need to adjust your stuffing method. After slicing the dates open, you can create a small “lid” by cutting a bit deeper without splitting them completely. This will give you more surface area to hold the cream. Additionally, make sure the mascarpone is soft and easily spreadable—if it’s cold, you might try letting it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using. Enjoy crafting your delicious treat!