Post: Erin

Sweet and gooey Medjool dates are unbelievably versatile and find themselves in a number of my recipes (for appetizers and desserts!) They can add an unexpected note of sweetness to an otherwise savory bite, or be the sweet surprise inside a crispy bacon-wrapped bundle. But sometimes, you just can't beat simple elegance. This no bake no fuss recipe celebrates dates as the perfect vehicle for your favorite filling. Stuff them with goat cheese, top with a walnut half, and add them to your next cheese board. Or, fill them with peanut butter and drizzle with dark chocolate for an easy but elegant dessert.

Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

12 Medjool dates
2–3 ounces goat cheese
12 walnut halves

Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates with Chocolate

12 Medjool dates
2–3 ounces peanut butter
2 ounces dark chocolate chips*
Ground pistachios or sea salt for sprinkling

First Things First. Pit each date by making a lengthwise slit down the center of the date; remove the pit. This will leave an opening perfect for stuffing.

Filling the Dates. Using a butter knife, scoop up a heaping teaspoon of filling and smooth it into the date.

The Toppers. For goat cheese stuffed dates, top each with a walnut half.

For peanut butter stuffed dates, drizzle with melted chocolate. NOTE: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate, stirring every 30 seconds, for 90 seconds or until melted. Use a fork to drizzle. Finish with a ground pistachios or a sprinkle of sea salt.

*substitute your favorite chocolate (milk, semi-sweet, etc.)