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    Home » Appetizers » Best Ricotta Stuffed Dates Recipe

    Best Ricotta Stuffed Dates Recipe

    November 27, 2022 , Updated April 6, 2024 Maria 2 Comments

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    Ricotta stuffed dates garnished with orange zest and finely chopped walnuts.

    Wholesome. Naturally sweet. Delicious. These words come to mind when describing this easy recipe for the best ricotta Stuffed Dates. Whether preparing them as appetizers or as a snack for the kids, nothing can be healthier or easier to make.

    Ricotta Stuffed Medjool Dates

    Whether you’re looking for a sweet and satisfying snack, an elegant appetizer to serve at your next party, or a homemade gift for your loved ones, these stuffed dates with ricotta are the perfect choice – easy to make, delicious, and sure to impress.

    You only need two simple ingredients -walnuts and homemade ricotta cheese to create the perfect flavor combination in each little bite!

    Adding chopped walnuts and orange zest adds a crunchy, citrusy twist that elevates the flavor profile!

    I’ve been making these treats for decades, and they’re always the first appetizers to disappear.

    Get ready to learn how to make these delicious no-bake treats – your taste buds are in for a surprise!

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients
    • How to make ricotta stuffed dates
    • Variations
    • Tips
    • FAQ
    • More date recipes
    • Recipe origins
    • Ricotta cheese recipes
    • Recipe
    Ingredients to make stuffed dates with ricotta on a wooden board.

    Ingredients

    • Medjool dates: These are large, sweet, and sticky dates that will serve as the delicious, natural wrapper for the filling.
    • Walnut halves: Each date will be stuffed with a walnut half to add a nutty and crunchy element.
    • Ricotta cheese: The creamy and slightly tangy ricotta cheese will be the delightful filling for the dates, adding a creamy contrast to the sweetness of the dates.
    • Walnuts finely chopped: These will garnish the stuffed dates, providing an extra crunch and flavor.
    • Orange zest to garnish: A sprinkle of orange zest on top of the stuffed dates will offer a bright and zesty note, enhancing the overall flavor and presentation.
    Process shots of how to stuff dates with ricotta.

    How to make ricotta stuffed dates

    To prepare the dates, use a sharp paring knife to slit lengthwise down the center and remove the pit. Next, gently press a walnut piece in the center of each pitted date. Then, with a small spoon, cover the walnut with fresh ricotta cheese, as shown in the photo above. 

    Repeat with the rest of the dates.

    Next, we are going to top the ricotta with finely chopped walnuts.

    Photo collage of finely chopped walnuts and orange zest garnishing a ricotta studded date.

    To do so, press the ricotta-stuffed dates, one at a time, into a small bowl of finely chopped walnuts and gently roll so that the ricotta cheese is completely coated with the nuts, as shown in the above photo. Refer to the video located on the recipe card to see how this is done. 

    Garnish with grated orange zest, and enjoy! 

    A closeup photo of a ricotta stuffed date garnished with nuts and orange zest.

    Variations

    This recipe is versatile and can be modified in a variety of ways. For example:

    • You can use different kinds of nuts or dried fruits to customize the recipe.
    • You could replace the ricotta with different cheeses, such as soft goat cheese, cream cheese, mascarpone, or blue cheese.
    • For a vegan variation, you can use your favorite nut butter, almond butter, or vegan cream cheese.
    • For a different flavor, add fresh herbs, garlic powder, and/or pepper to the ricotta instead of the orange zest.
    The creamy interior of a ricotta stuffed date.

    Tips

    • Use fresh, soft dates for this recipe. Avoid dry or hard dates, as they may be difficult to stuff.
    • The large Medjool dates are great to use in this simple recipe because they’re fleshier; not only can you fit the walnut half inside, but there’s also room for ricotta cheese.
    • Make sure to finely chop the walnuts before topping the stuffed dates. This will ensure that each piece is evenly coated with the nutty flavor.
    • Stuffed dates are best enjoyed at room temperature.
    • Toasting the walnuts before stuffing the dates adds a nice crunch and extra flavor.
    • This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled based on your needed amount.

    FAQ

    Can I make these dates ahead of time?

    Yes, stuffed dates with ricotta can be prepared up to 1 day in advance. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Letting them warm up to room temperature before serving will enhance their taste.

    Do I have to use Medjool dates for this recipe?

    I would suggest using Medjool dates for best results. You can undoubtedly opt for other varieties if you prefer. Just remember that the size and texture of the dates might impact the taste and texture of the stuffed dates. If you choose another type of date, I recommend selecting one that’s fresh, tender, and sweet.

    What is the best way to serve these stuffed dates with ricotta?

    Stuffed dates are great served as an easy appetizer or delicious snack. They can also be served over a bed of greens for a light lunch or dinner.

    Are dates stuffed with ricotta healthier than other snacks?

    Yes! Stuffed dates are packed with nutrients and offer a healthy alternative to processed snack foods. They provide carbohydrates for energy, fiber for digestion, and protein from the ricotta cheese. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened by the dates – no added sugar required!

    Ricotta Stuffed Medjool Dates

    More date recipes

    Dates are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, ranging from appetizers to desserts, and even as a healthy snack like these date energy balls – a go-to option that’s packed with nutrients and perfect for satisfying hunger cravings any time of day!

    Two date and almond biscotti next to a mug of coffee.

    Date Biscotti with Almonds

    This delicious Italian date biscotti recipe is packed with almonds, dates, and orange flavors, making it perfect for a delicious treat.

    If you’re looking for a quick and healthy breakfast, try my recipe for orange date muffins – in less than half an hour, you could be enjoying a warm and delicious muffin perfect for starting your day on the right foot.

    For a moist and naturally sweet bran muffin, look no further than our recipe for a delicious date bran muffin – made with natural bran and dates; these muffins are a good source of fiber and a guilt-free treat that tastes amazing!

    And for a classic dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for Christmas, try my recipe for date squares – these sweet and chewy treats are the perfect addition to a platter of Christmas cookies!

    Ricotta stuffed dates garnished with orange zest and finely chopped walnuts.

    Recipe origins

    My mom would love to experiment with new recipes, especially easy Italian appetizer recipes. This simple and tasty recipe was one of her most requested.

    I remember the first time she made these stuffed dates with ricotta and walnuts -it was my grandfather’s birthday. I was so intrigued by this decadent and delicious appetizer. 

    Over the years, I have modified the appearance of my mom’s recipe by placing the walnut half in the date, covering it with ricotta, and then garnishing it with chopped walnuts and orange or lemon zest. 

    If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer, look no further than this recipe for stuffed dates. Once you taste them, you will make them part of your regular appetizer repertoire. Enjoy!

    THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community, where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.

    Ciao for now,

    Maria 

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    ★★★★★ If you have made this recipe for stuffed dates with ricotta, I would love to hear about it in the comments below and be sure to rate the recipe!

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      Italian Stuffed Shells Recipe with Meat and Cheese
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      Lemon Ricotta Cookies: Eggless Recipe
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    • Italian Easter Grain Pie on a cake stand.
      Pastiera Napoletana: Italian Easter Grain Pie

    Recipe

    Ricotta and walnut stuffed dates on a marble board.

    Easy Ricotta Stuffed Dates Recipe

    Wholesome. Naturally sweet. Delicious. Those are the words that come to mind when I think of this easy recipe for Ricotta Stuffed Dates.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Save RecipeSaved! Pin Rate
    Course: Appetizer
    Cuisine: Italian
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Servings: 6 servings
    Calories: 119kcal
    Author: Maria Vannelli RD
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    Ingredients

    • 6 Medjool dates
    • 6 walnut halves
    • ¼ cup ricotta cheese
    • 2 tablespoons walnuts finely chopped
    • orange zest to garnish

    Instructions

    • To prepare the dates, use a sharp knife to slit lengthwise down the center and remove the pit.
    • Gently press a walnut half in the center of each date. Repeat with the rest of the dates.
    • Cover the walnut with a heaping teaspoon of fresh ricotta cheese. Repeat with the rest of the dates.
    • Top the ricotta with finely chopped walnuts. To do so, press the ricotta-stuffed dates, one at a time, into the finely chopped walnuts and gently roll so that the ricotta cheese is completely coated with the nuts.
    • Garnish with grated orange zest and enjoy!
    Enhance Your Cooking Experience!SCROLL UP for essential step-by-step photos embedded in the article above. When available, videos can be found in the next section. These visuals are designed to help you achieve perfect results every time. Happy cooking!

    Video

    Notes

    • Use fresh, soft dates for this recipe. Avoid dry or hard dates, as they may be difficult to stuff.
    • The large Medjool dates are great to use in this simple recipe because they’re fleshier; not only can you fit the walnut half inside, but there’s also room for ricotta cheese.
    • Make sure to finely chop the walnuts before topping the stuffed dates. This will ensure that each piece is evenly coated with the nutty flavor.
    • Stuffed dates are best enjoyed at room temperature.
    • Toasting the walnuts before stuffing the dates adds a nice crunch and extra flavor.
    • This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled based on your needed amount.
    Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 9mg | Potassium: 201mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 82IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 0.4mg
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    I originally published this post on November 5, 2015 and republished on November 27, 2022, with updated photos, content and a video. Thanks for sharing.

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    Filed Under: Appetizers, Breakfast and Brunch, Ricotta Cheese, Vegetarian

    About Maria

    Maria Vannelli is a retired dietitian who lives in a suburb just outside Montreal, Canada. She's the founder of the food blog She Loves Biscotti. Maria hopes to inspire you and bring you and your loved ones closer together at meal times enabling you to create some memorable moments.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. anna maria

      November 15, 2015 at 7:38 am

      5 stars
      hi Mary, i love this recipe, my guests enjoy them too. i’ve also filled them up with mascarpone cheese, they taste good too. take care Anna.

      Reply
      • Maria

        November 15, 2015 at 6:48 pm

        Hi Anna, I totally agree!!! Thanks for taking the time to comment 🙂

        Reply

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    Maria from She loves biscotti

    Hi, I'm Maria! a dietitian (retired) and full-time content creator. Join me as I share traditional Italian recipes from my youth to modern twists on classics using fresh and seasonal ingredients.

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