Spiced Apricot and Walnut Stuffed Dates with Honey Drizzle
Sweet, plump Medjool dates are filled with a savory and slightly spicy mixture of ground walnuts, dried apricots, and warming Turkish spices. This appetizer offers a delightful contrast of textures and a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.
Prep Time
30 min
Difficulty
Medium
Servings
12
Calories
180 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
~5 min - 2
Pit the dates by making a slit lengthwise and carefully removing the seed. Leave the date intact on one side.
~5 min - 3
In a food processor, pulse the walnuts and dried apricots until they form a coarse meal.
~2 min - 4
Transfer the walnut and apricot mixture to a small bowl. Stir in the honey, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne pepper, and salt.
~3 min - 5
Gently fill each pitted date with the apricot-walnut mixture. Press lightly to secure.
~5 min - 6
Arrange the stuffed dates on the prepared baking sheet.
~1 min - 7
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the dates are slightly softened and the filling is fragrant.
~12 min - 8
Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
~1 min
Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet before chopping them.
- These can be served at room temperature as well, making them convenient for make-ahead entertaining.
Featured Collections
Popular Recipes
HalalHoney-Glazed Fig and Walnut Kofta
These sweet and sour kofta are a delightful twist on traditional Turkish flavors, featuring plump figs and crunchy walnuts. Pan-fried to perfection and coated in a fragrant honey-lemon glaze, they make for a surprisingly satisfying and elegant dinner.
HalalSour Cherry and Walnut Molasses Tartlets
These tartlets offer a delightful balance of tartness from the sour cherries and a rich, slightly bitter sweetness from the grape molasses, complemented by the earthy crunch of walnuts. They are a perfect sophisticated end to a meal, combining unexpected flavors for a memorable dessert experience.
HalalSpicy Umami Baklava with Candied Chili Pepitas
A bold twist on a classic, this baklava features layers of crisp phyllo dough filled with a savory-spicy nut mixture enhanced with a hint of umami. The sweet, crunchy top layer of candied chili pepitas provides a surprising yet delightful textural and flavor contrast.
HalalStuffed Pomegranate Lamb with Sour Cherry Glaze
Tender lamb shoulder is slowly braised with aromatic spices, then stuffed with a vibrant mixture of rice, herbs, and pomegranate seeds. It's finished with a sweet and tangy sour cherry glaze, creating a visually stunning and deeply flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion.