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Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Orange, Pistachio, and Pomegranate Recipe


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4.2 from 74 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 19 minutes
  • Yield: 16-18 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Mascarpone Stuffed Dates with Orange, Pistachio, and Pomegranate are a delightful and elegant appetizer or dessert perfect for any occasion. Soft, sweet Medjool dates are filled with a creamy mascarpone cheese mixture enhanced with honey, orange zest, and crunchy pistachios, then gently warmed and topped with juicy pomegranate arils and flaky sea salt for a burst of flavor and texture.


Ingredients

Filling

  • 4 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon roasted, salted pistachios, chopped
  • Pinch of salt

Dates and Garnish

  • 16-18 large Medjool dates
  • 1-2 tablespoons pomegranate arils, for garnish
  • Flaky sea salt, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prep the dates and filling: Preheat your oven to 375℉. Carefully remove the pits from the Medjool dates, being sure to keep one side intact to create a pocket for stuffing. In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, honey, orange zest, chopped pistachios, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  2. Stuff and chill the dates: Using a small spoon, fill each pitted date with about two teaspoons of the mascarpone mixture, adjusting based on the size of your dates. Arrange the stuffed dates on a plate and place them in the freezer for 10 minutes. This chilling step helps the filling firm up so it won’t ooze out during baking.
  3. Bake and garnish: Transfer the chilled stuffed dates onto a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 3-4 minutes, just until the dates are warmed through and the filling is slightly soft but still intact. Remove from the oven and immediately garnish with fresh pomegranate arils and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Serve these elegant bites warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the mascarpone cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.
  • Freezing the stuffed dates before baking is key to prevent the filling from melting out.
  • Use high-quality Medjool dates for the best natural sweetness and softness.
  • These can be served as a sophisticated appetizer or a light dessert.
  • For a nut-free version, omit pistachios and consider toasted coconut flakes as a substitute.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean