If you’re after a quick, crowd-pleasing appetiser that looks impressive but takes no time at all, these 3-ingredient stuffed dates are the answer. Sweet, salty, creamy and crunchy – every bite is a flavour bomb. Perfect for festive gatherings, last-minute nibbles, or even a special snack, these baked dates combine natural sweetness from the fruit with melty cheddar and a satisfying walnut crunch on top.
You only need a handful of simple ingredients and about 10 minutes to bring it all together, making it a go-to recipe when you’re short on time but still want something ‘buonissimo.’ Whether you’re hosting, heading to a party, or just treating yourself to something delicious, this one ticks all the boxes – it’s easy, balanced and full of flavour.
Ways To Enjoy It
- Party platter hero: Add these to your festive platter with olives, crudités, and nuts for a balanced spread.
- Quick canapé: Serve as elegant bite-sized starters at dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
- Sweet & savoury snack: Enjoy a couple as a satisfying afternoon snack with a cup of tea.
- Post-dinner treat: A lovely alternative to dessert – naturally sweet but with a savoury twist.
- Picnic-friendly: Pack them for picnics or outdoor lunches – no need to keep warm!
Dates Are Better For You
Dates are naturally sweet, which makes them a brilliant whole-food alternative to refined sugar in healthier desserts and snacks. Yes, they do contain sugar—but unlike processed sweets, dates come packed with fibre, vitamins, and minerals. That fibre helps slow down the release of sugar into your bloodstream, giving you more steady energy and keeping you feeling satisfied for longer. Plus, they’re a good source of potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants. So while they are sweet, they’re also a nourishing choice that brings a lot more to the table than just sugar.
Tips
- Use soft Medjool dates: These are sweeter and have the perfect gooey texture after baking. If yours are firm, soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes.
- Slice carefully: Cut the dates just enough to remove the pit and stuff – don’t cut all the way through or the cheese may slide out.
- Experiment with cheese: Cheddar works brilliantly, but goat cheese or blue cheese adds a delicious tang.
- Watch the bake time: Keep an eye on them, especially in the air fryer – they only need a few minutes to warm through and melt.
- Serve warm or at room temp: Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but still tasty once cooled.
Swaps
Cheddar cheese: Brie, blue cheese, or goat’s cheese can be used instead if you prefer a softer, tangier filling.
Walnuts: Pecans also work well and offer a similar texture and sweetness.
Dates: If you don’t have Medjool dates, Deglet Noor dates are a smaller alternative, but may be trickier to stuff.
Storage
Fridge: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer.
Freezer: Not recommended, as dates and cheese change texture when frozen.
More Dates Recipes
- 3 Ingredients Date Bark
- 4-Ingredient Bounty Dates
- Dates & Butter Beans Salad
- 2-Ingredient Gut-Friendly Fudge
Savoury Stuffed Dates
Ingredients
- Dates
- Cheddar cheese
- Walnuts
Instructions
- Cut dates in a half and put onto a baking tray.
- Add the sliced cheddar and a pecan on top of each date.
- Bake for 5-6 mins at 180C in a pre-heat oven or 4 mins at 180C in the air fryer.