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Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Recipe

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4.7 from 21 reviews

Delight in the perfect balance of sweet and savory with these Feta-Parmesan Roasted Stuffed Dates topped with a luscious honey-walnut herb crunch. This easy appetizer features Medjool dates filled with a tangy cheese blend, baked to warm perfection, and finished with a crunchy, aromatic walnut topping sweetened with honey and fresh thyme.

Ingredients

Stuffed Dates

  • 12 large Medjool dates
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Honey-Walnut Herb Crunch

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dates: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice each Medjool date lengthwise and carefully remove the pits to create pockets for stuffing.
  2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly mixed. Spoon the cheese mixture into each date, pressing gently to fill fully.
  3. Prepare the Honey-Walnut Crunch: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and toast, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in the honey and chopped fresh thyme. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Arrange the stuffed dates on a baking sheet and drizzle the honey-walnut mixture evenly over them. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until the cheese is warm and slightly melted.
  5. Serve: Remove the dates from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm as an elegant appetizer perfect for sharing.

Notes

  • Use Medjool dates for their natural sweetness and soft texture, which complements the cheese filling perfectly.
  • For a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with toasted sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
  • To make this dish vegan, replace the cheeses with a plant-based feta alternative and choose maple syrup instead of honey.
  • Toast the walnuts carefully to avoid burning; stirring frequently ensures even toasting.
  • Fresh thyme adds a subtle earthiness, but you can substitute with rosemary or oregano depending on your preference.
  • Serve immediately after baking for the best texture and flavor, as the cheese will be creamy and the topping crisp.