These warm, roasted Boursin Cheese Stuffed Dates with a crunchy brown butter walnut topping are the ultimate appetizer. Savory, sweet, and full of the perfect balance of textures, they’re super easy to make… and enjoy!

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 20-24 large medjool dates, pitted
• 1 package (150g) Boursin cheese (garlic and fine herbs)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup pomegranate arils, for topping
• 1/4 cup chives, finely chopped, for topping

Directions

1. Brown the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until it deepens in color and emits a nutty aroma.
2. Prepare the Topping: Once the butter has browned, reduce heat to low and add the chopped walnuts and panko bread crumbs. Stir for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and let the mixture thicken in the pan.
3. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Stuff the Dates: Remove the pits from the dates, making a small slit lengthwise without cutting completely through. Fill each date with approximately 1 tablespoon of Boursin cheese and press gently to close.
5. Arrange for Baking: Place the stuffed dates closely together in an 8×8-inch baking dish. The number of dates may vary based on their size.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes.
7. Add Topping: Remove from the oven and spoon a generous amount of the brown butter mixture over each date.
8. Garnish and Serve: Top with pomegranate arils and chopped chives. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 150-200 kcal
• Fat: 10-15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5-8 g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 g
• Sugars: 12-16 g
• Protein: 2-4 g
• Sodium: 100-150 mg
• Fiber: 1-2 g

The Perfect Balance of Sweet, Savory, and Crunchy

Brown Butter Crispy Boursin Cheese Stuffed Dates are a gourmet appetizer that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors with a delightful crunch. These stuffed dates are an elegant yet simple dish that will impress any guest at your gathering. The combination of warm, melted Boursin cheese inside the naturally sweet Medjool dates, topped with a rich brown butter walnut mixture, creates a flavor explosion that is both indulgent and satisfying. This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also about texture. The softness of the baked dates contrasts beautifully with the creamy, herbed cheese and the crispy, buttery walnut-panko topping. With every bite, you experience a medley of flavors that is truly unforgettable.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you love trying unique and gourmet appetizers, this recipe is for you. Here’s why it’s worth making:

• Simple Yet Elegant: Despite its impressive appearance and flavor complexity, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients, you get a rich, multi-layered taste experience.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or preparing a holiday spread, these stuffed dates fit in perfectly.
• Perfect for Cheese Lovers: Boursin cheese has a rich, creamy texture with a subtle garlic and herb flavor, making it a fantastic complement to the natural sweetness of dates.

The Magic of Brown Butter

One of the standout components of this recipe is the brown butter. Browning butter enhances its flavor, giving it a nutty, caramelized aroma that adds depth to any dish. When combined with walnuts and panko, it creates a crispy, buttery topping that elevates these stuffed dates from good to extraordinary. Brown butter is made by gently cooking unsalted butter over low heat until the milk solids begin to brown. The process requires attention to prevent burning, but the reward is a golden, fragrant butter that enhances both sweet and savory dishes. In this recipe, it not only deepens the flavor but also provides the perfect crispy contrast to the creamy cheese filling.

The Health Benefits of Dates, Walnuts, and Cheese

Beyond their delicious taste, these stuffed dates offer some surprising health benefits:

• Medjool Dates: Naturally rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. They are a natural energy booster and provide a satisfying sweetness without refined sugar.
• Walnuts: Packed with healthy fats, omega-3s, and protein, walnuts contribute to brain health and heart health. They also add a wonderful crunch to this dish.
• Boursin Cheese: While creamy and indulgent, Boursin cheese also provides protein and calcium. Opting for a lower-fat version can make this dish slightly lighter.

Customizing This Recipe to Suit Your Taste

While this recipe is already a showstopper, you can customize it in several ways to suit your dietary preferences and flavor preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Add Protein: Wrap each stuffed date with a thin slice of crispy bacon or prosciutto for an extra savory element.
• Try Different Cheeses: While Boursin cheese is an excellent choice, you can experiment with goat cheese, blue cheese, or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Vegan: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and swap the butter for a vegan butter substitute.
• Enhance the Sweetness: Drizzle the finished dates with honey or a balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and complexity.
• Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.

How to Serve and Store

These stuffed dates are best served warm, straight out of the oven. However, if you need to prepare them in advance, you can stuff the dates and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

For storing leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezing: While not recommended for optimal texture, you can freeze them before baking and then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Brown Butter Crispy Boursin Cheese Stuffed Dates are a must-try appetizer that brings together sweet, savory, and crunchy elements in one bite-sized package. They are simple to make yet sophisticated enough to impress guests at any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a unique holiday dish, a party snack, or an elegant appetizer, these stuffed dates are sure to become a favorite.