Mascarpone Dates with Maple

This sweet and decadent recipe transforms simple dates into an elegant dessert that's surprisingly easy to prepare. The combination of creamy mascarpone, crunchy pecans, and rich maple syrup creates a sophisticated treat that's perfect for entertaining or satisfying sweet cravings without processed sugar.

I first created these stuffed dates for a holiday gathering when I needed a last-minute dessert. The combination reminded me so much of pecan pie that they've become my go-to impressive treat when time is short but I want something that looks and tastes gourmet.

Ingredients

• Medjool dates chosen for their soft texture and natural caramel flavor. Look for plump dates without crystallized sugar on the outside
• Mascarpone cheese provides a silky rich filling that balances the sweetness. Ensure it's at room temperature for easy piping
• Pecans add essential crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them lightly before chopping for enhanced flavor
• Grade A Dark Amber Maple Syrup brings depth and complex sweetness. Always use pure maple syrup not pancake syrup for authentic flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven

Turn the broiler to high and position your oven rack at the top. This quick high heat will caramelize the maple syrup and slightly toast the pecans without overcooking the delicate mascarpone.

Prepare The Dates

Slice each Medjool date lengthwise being careful not to cut all the way through. Remove the pit and create a small cavity for the filling. The natural stickiness of the dates will help them stay partially closed around the filling.

Fill The Dates

Spoon or pipe mascarpone cheese into each date cavity filling them generously. The creamy cheese should contrast with the sweet chewy texture of the dates. Sprinkle the finely chopped pecans over each stuffed date pressing gently so they adhere to the cheese.

Broil To Perfection

Arrange the stuffed dates on a lined baking sheet ensuring they're not touching. Drizzle each with maple syrup allowing it to coat both the filling and the exterior of the date. Broil for exactly 3 minutes watching constantly as they can burn quickly. The perfect result has slightly golden pecans and bubbly maple syrup.

Bookmark

The mascarpone cheese is truly the star ingredient here. Unlike cream cheese which has a tangy profile mascarpone offers a pure creamy richness that melts beautifully against the warm date. My grandmother always said a good dessert needs contrast and these dates deliver that principle perfectly.

Make-Ahead Options

These elegant bites can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Simply stuff the dates with mascarpone and store covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve allow them to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes add the pecans and maple drizzle then broil as directed. This makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute preparation.

Delicious Variations

While this classic version is hard to improve upon you can customize these dates in several ways. Try using goat cheese instead of mascarpone for a tangier flavor profile. Substitute walnuts or pistachios for pecans each bringing their unique character. For a sophisticated twist add a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top after broiling to enhance all the flavors with a subtle salty contrast.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed dates shine as part of a dessert platter alongside fresh berries and dark chocolate pieces. They also work beautifully as an elegant appetizer paired with sparkling wine or prosecco the bubbles help cleanse the palate between bites. For a beautiful presentation arrange them on a wooden board with fresh mint leaves for color contrast.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I substitute the mascarpone cheese with something else?

Yes, you can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese, ricotta, or goat cheese. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile, with goat cheese offering a tangier taste that complements the sweet dates wonderfully.

→ How do I store leftover stuffed dates?

Store any leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving again, or gently warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

→ Can I make these stuffed dates ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the dates with the mascarpone and pecans, store them in the refrigerator, and then drizzle with maple syrup and broil just before serving.

→ What can I serve with these stuffed dates?

These stuffed dates work beautifully as part of a cheese board, alongside fresh fruits, nuts, and crackers. They also pair wonderfully with sparkling wine, dessert wine, or coffee when served as a dessert.

→ Are there any variations I can try?

Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mascarpone, using honey instead of maple syrup, or incorporating different nuts like walnuts or pistachios. For a savory-sweet version, wrap each date with a small piece of prosciutto before broiling.

→ How do I prevent the dates from burning under the broiler?

Keep a close eye on the dates while broiling, as they can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt in seconds. Position the oven rack 6-8 inches from the broiler element and consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.