🧀 Stuffed Dates Appetizers; Sweet, Salty, and Super Easy!

Hi friends! If you’re looking for a quick, tasty snack that feels fancy but takes almost no effort this is the recipe for you. These stuffed dates appetizers are one of my favorite holiday bites. They’re soft, sweet, salty, and a little bit crunchy all in one perfect bite. I love how they look like something you’d get at a fancy party, but you only need three simple ingredients!

You can bake them in the oven or even pop them in the air fryer. They’re ready in minutes, and kids and adults both love them. Whether you’re having a holiday party, a cozy night in, or just want a fun treat, these little bites are sure to please.

Method

Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer

Start by warming up your cooking appliance. If you’re using an oven, preheat it to 180°C (350°F). If you’re using an air fryer, set it to the same temperature. Preheating makes sure everything cooks evenly and the cheese melts just right.

Prepare the Dates

Next, take your Medjool dates and slice them in half lengthwise. Be sure to remove the pits if they’re still inside. You’ll end up with 10 date halves that are perfect for stuffing. Try to keep the halves neat and slightly open so you have space for the filling.

Assemble on a Tray

Place each date half on a baking tray or into the air fryer basket, cut side facing up. If you’re using an oven, you can line the tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Add the Fillings

Now it’s time to stuff! On each date half, place a small slice of cheddar cheese right in the center. Then, press a pecan half gently on top of the cheese. Make sure everything is centered so it melts and browns nicely without slipping off during baking.

Bake or Air Fry

If you’re using the oven, bake the stuffed dates for 5 to 6 minutes, just until the cheese starts to melt and the pecans get a little toasty. If you’re using an air fryer, cook them for 4 minutes at 180°C. Be careful not to overcook they should be warm and gooey, not dried out or too soft.

Let Cool Slightly and Serve

After cooking, take the tray out and let the stuffed dates cool for 1 to 2 minutes. This helps the cheese set a little and makes them easier to pick up and eat. Then, serve them warm while the cheese is still soft and delicious!

Necessary Tools

• Baking tray or air fryer basket
• Knife (for cutting dates)
• Oven or air fryer
• Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)

Serving Suggestions

• Serve them warm right out of the oven with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• These are great on a party platter with fruits, nuts, and cheese cubes.
• You can even drizzle a little honey or balsamic glaze on top for extra flavor.

Fun Fact

Dates come from the date palm tree and have been eaten for thousands of years! They’re super sweet and packed with fiber and energy, which makes them a great natural treat.

Conclusion

These stuffed dates appetizers are proof that something small and simple can be totally delicious. They’re a sweet and savory snack that looks impressive, but takes almost no time. If you’ve never had warm dates with melty cheese and crunchy nuts now’s your chance! I love making these for guests or even as a quick snack for myself. Try them out and let me know how it goes!