Brie-Stuffed Dates with Almonds and Honey are a luxurious yet simple appetizer that blends sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy elements into one elegant bite. Warmed in the oven until the brie is just melted, these dates are finished with a drizzle of honey and optional fresh thyme, making them a sophisticated choice for gatherings or refined snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is the epitome of minimal effort and maximum reward. Each date offers a rich, gooey center from the brie, a crunchy almond core, and a subtle sweetness from honey. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or need a quick hors d’oeuvre, these bites are crowd-pleasing, gluten-free, and easily adaptable. They strike the perfect balance of flavors and textures — making them both memorable and addictive.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz brie cheese, cut into 12 small cubes
- 12 whole roasted almonds
- 2 teaspoons honey
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice each Medjool date open lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Insert a cube of brie into each date, pressing the sides gently to close.
- Arrange the stuffed dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Place one roasted almond on top of each stuffed date.
- Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the brie is melted and begins to bubble.
- Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle each date with a little honey.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if using, and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 pieces, typically serving 4 to 6 people as an appetizer. It requires about 10 minutes of preparation and 8 minutes of baking, for a total time of under 20 minutes.
Variations
- Nut-Free: Omit the almonds or replace them with pumpkin seeds for a crunch without nuts.
- Cheese Options: Substitute goat cheese or blue cheese for a tangier flavor profile.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based brie alternatives and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the stuffed dates in a half slice of bacon before baking for a savory upgrade.
- Spiced Honey: Infuse your honey with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a subtle kick.
storage/reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until warm. These are best enjoyed fresh, as the texture of the brie changes once chilled.
FAQs
Can I make these in advance?
You can prepare the stuffed dates a few hours ahead and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving.
Do I need to remove the brie rind?
No, the rind is edible and adds flavor. However, you can trim it if preferred.
Can I use a different type of date?
Medjool dates are best for their size and sweetness, but other varieties like Deglet Noor can work if larger.
What’s the best brie to use?
Choose a soft, creamy brie that melts well. Double-cream varieties work especially well.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use honey alternatives?
Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used in place of honey.
What if I don’t have almonds?
Pecans, walnuts, or pistachios are great alternatives for the topping.
How do I keep the cheese from oozing out?
Be sure to close the dates gently around the brie and avoid overstuffing.
Can these be served at room temperature?
They are best served warm, but they can be enjoyed at room temperature shortly after baking.
Are they suitable for kids?
Yes, the sweet and mild flavor makes them kid-friendly, though you may wish to skip the thyme.
Conclusion
Brie-Stuffed Dates with Almonds and Honey offer a quick yet elegant solution for entertaining or treating yourself to something special. Their perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and creamy textures ensures they’ll be a hit on any table. Whether served as a party appetizer or a refined snack, this recipe proves that a handful of quality ingredients can create something truly memorable.
Print
Brie-Stuffed Dates with Almonds and Honey
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These warm, gooey brie-stuffed dates are crowned with crunchy almonds and a drizzle of golden honey — an irresistible sweet-and-savory bite perfect for elegant entertaining or effortless snacking.
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz brie cheese, cut into 12 small cubes
- 12 whole roasted almonds
- 2 teaspoons honey
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully slice each date open lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff each date with a cube of brie, pressing gently to close the sides around the cheese.
- Place stuffed dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Top each with a whole almond and bake for 6–8 minutes, or until brie is just melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and drizzle lightly with honey while warm.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use blue cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute walnuts or pecans for almonds if preferred.
- Great served with sparkling wine or champagne.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed date
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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