Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are an elegant, naturally sweet appetizer or dessert that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat. Combining creamy ricotta, crunchy pistachios, and luscious honey inside tender Medjool dates, this recipe is perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to a guilt-free indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No cooking required—just mix, stuff, and drizzle
- Made with wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients
- Naturally sweetened with dates and honey
- Can be made ahead for convenience
- Beautiful presentation for parties or charcuterie boards
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/3 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon or orange zest
directions
- Prep the dates: Slice each Medjool date lengthwise on one side and remove the pit, if not already pitted.
- Mix the filling: In a small bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, honey, and cinnamon or zest if using.
- Stuff the dates: Fill each date with about a teaspoon of the ricotta mixture using a small spoon or piping bag.
- Top with pistachios: Sprinkle chopped pistachios generously over the ricotta filling.
- Drizzle with honey: Arrange stuffed dates on a serving plate and lightly drizzle with additional honey before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 20 stuffed dates
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Cheese options: Swap ricotta for goat cheese or cream cheese for a tangier or richer flavor
- Nut substitutions: Try almonds, walnuts, or pecans if pistachios aren’t available
- Vegan version: Use plant-based ricotta and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave
- Savory twist: Add a tiny pinch of sea salt or a sliver of prosciutto on top
- Spiced version: Mix in a dash of cardamom or nutmeg with the filling for a warm spice note
storage/reheating
- Storage: Keep stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Not recommended; serve chilled or at room temperature for best texture and flavor
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them a day in advance and store covered in the fridge. Drizzle honey just before serving.
What kind of dates should I use?
Medjool dates are ideal because they’re large, soft, and naturally sweet.
Can I use flavored ricotta?
Absolutely—lemon or herb-infused ricotta can add a unique twist.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I freeze them?
Not recommended, as freezing affects the texture of the ricotta and dates.
What kind of honey works best?
Use a mild, floral honey like clover or orange blossom for best flavor.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use a vegan ricotta and swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Do I need to toast the pistachios?
You don’t have to, but toasting brings out a richer flavor.
Can I serve these with other foods?
Yes, they pair well with cheese boards, salads, or light wines.
How do I keep them from sticking together?
Use parchment paper on your serving plate and avoid stacking them.
Conclusion
Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are a stunning and tasty addition to any snack platter, dessert tray, or holiday spread. With a balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet elements, they deliver gourmet flavor with minimal effort. Whether served as a party bite or a wholesome treat, these stuffed dates are sure to impress.
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Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed dates 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet, creamy, and crunchy, these Honey Pistachio Ricotta Stuffed Dates are an elegant and easy appetizer or dessert bite, combining rich ricotta, crunchy pistachios, and a drizzle of honey.
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Slice each date lengthwise on one side and gently open without splitting completely.
- In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese with cinnamon if using.
- Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of ricotta cheese.
- Top with chopped pistachios, gently pressing them into the ricotta.
- Drizzle each stuffed date with honey.
- Sprinkle with a tiny pinch of sea salt if desired. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use a plant-based ricotta and agave syrup instead of honey.
- Can be made up to 1 day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Try toasting pistachios lightly for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 dates
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg