Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Maple

Featured in Sweet Treats and Baked Goods.

Sweeten your day with mascarpone-stuffed medjool dates, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup and crunchy nuts. These easy-to-make treats combine creamy mascarpone filling with a hint of honey or maple syrup, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for parties or quick indulgent snacks, they can also be garnished with fresh thyme, mint, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added sophistication. Ready in just 15 minutes, this no-bake appetizer is both elegant and effortless.

Fatiha
Updated on Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:55:58 GMT
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A plate of food with nuts on top. | zestplate.com

This mascarpone stuffed dates recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant treat that's perfect for entertaining or satisfying sweet cravings. The creamy mascarpone filling balances beautifully with the natural caramel notes of medjool dates, while the maple drizzle adds just the right touch of sophisticated sweetness.

I first made these for a holiday gathering when I needed something impressive but was short on time. My guests thought I had spent hours in the kitchen, and now these stuffed dates have become my signature party trick when company drops by unexpectedly.

Ingredients

  • Medjool dates: larger dates work best as they provide more room for filling
  • Mascarpone cheese: brings a delicate creaminess that's less tangy than cream cheese
  • Honey or maple syrup: adds sweetness to the filling while keeping it smooth
  • Vanilla extract: enhances the flavor complexity without overpowering
  • Chopped nuts: provides essential textural contrast to the soft date and creamy filling
  • Maple syrup for drizzling: creates a glossy finish and extra layer of flavor
  • Sea salt flakes: optional but highly recommended for that sweet salty balance
  • Fresh herbs: adds a pop of color and subtle aromatic element

How To Make Mascarpone Stuffed Dates With Maple Drizzle

Prepare the dates:
Carefully slit each medjool date lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Gently remove the pit while keeping the date intact. The goal is to create a little pocket for the filling while maintaining the date's shape.
Mix the filling:
Combine softened mascarpone cheese with honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir until completely smooth with no lumps. The mixture should be soft enough to spoon but firm enough to hold its shape. If your mascarpone is too cold, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before mixing.
Fill the dates:
Using either a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each prepared date with the mascarpone mixture. For a more refined presentation, use a piping bag with a star tip. Fill generously but avoid overfilling as the cheese might spill out when topped.
Add finishing touches:
Sprinkle the chopped nuts over each stuffed date, gently pressing them into the mascarpone to secure. Drizzle with maple syrup using a small spoon or squeeze bottle for better control. If using salt flakes, add just a few crystals to each date. Garnish with tiny herb leaves if desired.
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A plate of food with a sauce. | zestplate.com

The first time I served these at a dinner party, my neighbor insisted I share the recipe immediately. The contrast between the sweet dates and slightly tangy mascarpone creates such a perfect balance that even those who claim not to like dates have been completely won over.

Make Ahead Options

These stuffed dates can be fully prepared up to one day in advance. Simply cover them loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the best texture and flavor, remove them from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. The mascarpone filling will be quite firm when cold but will soften to the perfect creamy consistency at room temperature. If making far in advance, consider waiting to add the maple drizzle and salt until just before serving for the freshest presentation.

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A plate of food with a sauce on it. | zestplate.com

Flavor Variations

The basic recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different flavor profiles. For a citrusy version, add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the mascarpone mixture. Consider incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warming spice note. You can also experiment with different nuts like pistachios for color, almonds for crunch, or hazelnuts for richness. For an adult version, try adding a small splash of bourbon or rum to the mascarpone mixture or replace the maple drizzle with a reduction of port wine for sophisticated depth.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed dates work beautifully as part of a larger cheese board alongside fresh and dried fruits, various cheeses, crackers, and honey. They make an elegant addition to a dessert platter or can stand alone as passed hors d'oeuvres. For a stunning presentation, arrange them on a white platter and scatter a few fresh herb leaves around the plate. These dates also complement a traditional afternoon tea service or can provide a sweet ending to a Mediterranean inspired meal.

The Cultural Significance

Dates have been a treasured food in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures for thousands of years. Often referred to as nature's candy, they're traditionally served as a welcoming gesture to guests in many cultures. This recipe brings together Italian mascarpone with these ancient fruits, creating a cross cultural delight that honors both traditions. In many Middle Eastern households, stuffed dates are particularly popular during Ramadan for breaking the fast, though typically with different fillings like nuts or tahini.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of dates should I use?

Medjool dates are recommended for their large size, sweetness, and soft texture, which makes them ideal for stuffing.

→ Can I use other fillings besides mascarpone?

Absolutely! You can try cream cheese, ricotta, or even nut butter as alternative fillings for different flavors and textures.

→ What nuts work best for topping the dates?

Pistachios, walnuts, or pecans provide excellent crunch and pair wonderfully with the sweet filling. Chop them finely for better adhesion.

→ How should I store the stuffed dates?

Store the stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for best taste.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day ahead. Keep the nuts and drizzle separate until just before serving to maintain the best texture.

→ What additional garnishes can I add?

Fresh thyme or mint leaves and a sprinkle of sea salt flakes can enhance both the flavor and presentation of the stuffed dates.

Mascarpone Stuffed Dates Maple

Sweet, creamy dates with mascarpone, maple, and nuts. A simple yet elegant treat.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
15 Minutes
By: Fatiha

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Global

Yield: 12 Servings (12 stuffed dates)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 12 Medjool dates, pitted
02 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
03 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
04 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 1/4 cup chopped nuts (pistachios, walnuts, or pecans)
06 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for drizzling)
07 1/2 teaspoon sea salt flakes (optional)
08 Fresh thyme or mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 01

Use a small knife to make a slit in each date lengthwise and remove the pit. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 02

In a small bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 03

Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully stuff each date with about 1 teaspoon of the mascarpone mixture.

Step 04

Top each stuffed date with chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.

Step 05

Lightly drizzle the maple syrup over the stuffed dates for a touch of sweetness. Add a sprinkle of sea salt flakes and fresh thyme or mint leaves for a decorative and flavor-enhancing finish.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Nuts
  • Dairy

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 95
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: 1 g