Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates With Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

A Date Night Snack That Feels Like a Warm Hug

If you’re craving something sweet and savory that you can whip up in minutes, this little tray of bites delivers. The dates stay tender and glossy, the feta-parmesan filling stays creamy, and the honey-walnut crunch adds a surprising, irresistible snap with every bite. It’s the kind of snack you reach for when you want something celebratory but effortless.

When the oven starts to glow and the scent of toasted nuts fills the kitchen, you’ll realize these stuffed dates are more than a party-appetizer—they’re a friendly, cozy moment shared with someone you love to feed. You’ll pinch them between two fingers, lift, and bite into a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and nutty. Pinterest-worthy? Absolutely. Make-it-tonight? Absolutely.

Ingredients

• Medjool dates, pitted — soft, caramel-sweet bites that feel like a little hug. Tip: If you’re using smaller deglet dates, soak 5 minutes to soften, then pat dry before stuffing.
• Feta cheese, crumbled — tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the parmesan. Tip: Crumble just before mixing for the freshest texture.
• Parmesan cheese, grated — sharp, nutty bite that helps keep the filling savory. Tip: Finely grate so it blends smoothly with the feta.
• Cream cheese or ricotta (optional) — a touch to bind the filling if your feta is very crumbly. Tip: Use sparingly to avoid an overly loose filling.
• Fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped — herby brightness that echoes the crunch topping. Tip: a pinch of lemon zest brightens the mix as an alternative.
• Fresh rosemary, finely chopped — piney aroma that complements the honey-walnut crunch. Tip: Use sparingly or it can overpower the dates.
• Walnuts, finely chopped — the star of the crunch, toasty and honey-glazed. Tip: Toast lightly first for deeper flavor.
• Honey — for the glaze and to sweeten the crunch. Tip: A light floral honey adds a delicate note; dark honey gives more depth.
• Olive oil — helps roasting and binding. Tip: A little goes a long way; you just want a touch to help the stuffing come together.
• Salt and black pepper — to taste, mindful of feta’s saltiness. Tip: Start with a pinch, then adjust after mixing.
• Lemon zest (optional) — a bright finish that keeps the flavors from feeling heavy. Tip: If using, add just a touch to the filling.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. This keeps the tray tidy and the dates from sticking.
2. In a small bowl, mix the feta, parmesan, cream cheese (if using), thyme, rosemary, a pinch of lemon zest (if using), and a generous grind of pepper until smooth and cohesive. The mixture should be scoopable but not runny.
3. Carefully slit each date lengthwise or gently press the opening to create a pocket. Stuff each date with a rounded teaspoon of the cheese mixture, pressing to seal so it doesn’t spill.
4. In a separate bowl, toss the chopped walnuts with 1–2 teaspoons of honey and a tiny drizzle of olive oil. Spread the walnut mixture on the parchment-lined sheet and bake for 6–8 minutes, or until glossy and fragrant. This is your crunch moment—watch closely so the nuts don’t burn.
5. Roast the stuffed dates on the prepared tray for 8–12 minutes, until the cheese is melty and the dates plump and slightly glossy. They should hold their shape but give a little when you bite into them.
6. Remove the tray from the oven. Spoon the honey-walnut crunch over the warm stuffed dates and drizzle with a little extra honey if you like. Garnish with a few thyme leaves for color and aroma. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Smart swaps: Swap goat cheese or mascarpone for a slightly different tang if feta isn’t your jam. Use pecorino for a sharper bite instead of parmesan.
• Heat level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a subtle kick.
• Gluten-free and dairy-free options: All ingredients here are gluten-free; for dairy-free, use a dairy-free feta alternative and a plant-based parmesan substitute. The crunch remains delicious with toasted sesame seeds in place of nuts, if needed.
• Make-ahead: Prepare the cheese filling and walnut crunch up to 1 day ahead. Stuff dates just before baking to keep them from drying out.
• Storage & reheating: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until warm and melty; re-crisp the walnut topping for best texture.
• Texture tweaks: If you want a firmer bite, chill the stuffed dates for 15–20 minutes before baking so the filling sets a touch as it bakes.
• Garnish ideas: Finely chopped parsley or pistachio bits add color and a fresh contrast to the richness.

Serving Suggestions

• Plate as a tapas-style starter: arrange on a long wooden board with a sprinkle of lemon zest and fresh herb sprigs for color.
• Pair with a bright salad: arugula, fennel, orange segments, and a light citrus vinaigrette balance the richness.
• Make-it-a-meal: serve alongside roasted vegetables and a small herbed yogurt dip for dipping or a baguette slice.
• Garnish and presentation: Use toothpicks to serve for easy picking and a rustic, shareable vibe on Pinterest-ready platters.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead?

You can prepare the cheese filling and the honey-walnut crunch ahead of time. Stuff the dates shortly before baking to maintain the best texture. If you’re tight on time, you can stuff the dates a few hours in advance and refrigerate, but they’re best served soon after baking.

How do I reheat these without losing crunch?

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. If you already added the crunch, re-crisp it quickly by giving the tray a 1–2 minute blast under the broiler at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.

Can I substitute feta with another cheese?

Yes. If you don’t have feta, try goat cheese for a softer tang or a tangy cream cheese/ricotta blend. For a sharper bite, a bit of pecorino romano can be mixed in with parmesan.

What if I don’t have walnuts?

Try toasted almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for a different kind of crunch. If you’re allergic to nuts, seeds provide a similar texture and a nice contrast with the creamy filling.

Are these naturally gluten-free?

Yes. All ingredients listed are gluten-free. Just double-check the parmesan packaging to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives in production.

Should I eat them warm or can they be served at room temperature?

They’re delicious either way. Warmed or room temperature, the cheese stays creamy and the crunch remains crisp. If you’re serving them later, reheat briefly to re-melt the cheese before serving.

Final Thoughts

These feta-parmesan roasted stuffed dates with honey-walnut herb crunch are proof that simple ingredients can become truly special with a thoughtful crunch and a kiss of warmth from the oven. They’re snackable, shareable, and surprisingly versatile, making them perfect for a busy weeknight, a casual party, or a Pinterest-perfect bite to pin for later. When you bite into one, you’ll taste the creamy cheese, the delicate sweetness of the date, and the toasty, honeyed crunch all dancing together in harmony. Enjoy the process, then enjoy the plate—you earned it.