Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat with these 20 delicious date recipes! Whether you’re looking for a classic dessert or a healthier snack, dates are the perfect ingredient to satisfy your cravings. With their natural sweetness and versatility, it’s no wonder why dates have been a staple in many cuisines around the world.
From sticky puddings to savory tagines, we’ve rounded up some of the most mouth-watering date recipes that will take you on a culinary journey across cultures. In this article, we’ll explore the diverse ways to use dates in sweet and savory dishes, from breakfast treats to indulgent desserts and even snacks for on-the-go.
So go ahead, get creative with these 20 delicious date recipes, and discover the endless possibilities of this ancient fruit!
Sticky Date Pudding with Caramel Sauce
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic Australian dessert, featuring a moist and sticky date pudding topped with a rich and creamy caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dates, pitted
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine dates, brown sugar, flour, and baking powder. Stir until well combined.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over warm pudding. Serve with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Medjool Date Smoothie with Banana and Almond Butter
This creamy smoothie is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring the natural sweetness of Medjool dates, ripe bananas, and nutty almond butter. A healthy dose of protein and fiber makes it an ideal post-workout snack or quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup pitted Medjool dates
– 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, Medjool dates, and almond butter.
2. Add the almond milk and honey (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Date and Walnut Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are a perfect snack to keep you going throughout the day. Made with wholesome ingredients like dates, walnuts, and oats, they’re not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend the dates until smooth.
2. Add the chopped walnuts and process until well combined.
3. Add the oats, honey, and salt; process until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy balls are ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Date-Sweetened Oatmeal Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy oatmeal cookies, sweetened with dates for a natural and delicious alternative to refined sugars.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, soaked in water and blended until smooth
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and dates until smooth.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese: Sweet and Savory Perfection
These bite-sized treats combine the natural sweetness of dates with the smoky, savory flavor of bacon and creamy goat cheese. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Stuff each date with a small amount of goat cheese.
3. Wrap a piece of bacon around each date, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with honey.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Date and Orange Blossom Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the natural sweetness of dates with the delicate flavor of orange blossom water, creating a unique and exotic dessert perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons orange blossom water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in chopped dates, orange blossom water, and heavy cream.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate-Covered Dates with Sea Salt
Elevate your snacking game with this simple recipe for Chocolate-Covered Dates with Sea Salt. The combination of sweet dates, rich chocolate, and crunchy sea salt is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the pitted dates on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each date.
3. Melt the chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Dip each date into the melted chocolate, coating it completely, then place it back on the baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of each date.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Date and Tahini Stuffed Pastries
These flaky pastry pockets are filled with the perfect combination of sweet dates and nutty tahini, making for a unique and delicious snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dates, tahini, honey, lemon juice, and salt.
4. Place a tablespoon of the date-tahini mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pastries are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Date and Lamb Tagine
A rich and flavorful stew originating from Morocco, this tagine combines the tender lamb with sweet dates and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted dates, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or clay tagine over medium heat.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, dates, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth and honey. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer over low heat for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until lamb is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Date and Almond Milkshake
Rich and creamy, this milkshake combines the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty flavor of almonds, perfect for a warm day or as a pick-me-up treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe medjool dates, pitted
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Whipped cream and sliced almonds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine dates, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes to chill or top with whipped cream and sliced almonds.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Date and Coconut Granola Bars
These chewy bars are a perfect blend of natural sweetness from dates and the nutty flavor of coconut, all wrapped up in a crunchy granola coating. Perfect for a quick snack or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or seeds (walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, dates, and coconut. Mix until well combined.
3. In a small saucepan, heat honey, brown sugar, and peanut butter over low heat, stirring until smooth.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: 12-16 granola bars
Persian Date and Saffron Rice
This aromatic rice dish is a staple of Persian cuisine, infused with the sweetness of dates and the warmth of saffron. Perfect as a side dish or main course, it’s sure to transport your taste buds to the exotic bazaars of Iran.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dates (such as Medjool or Barhi)
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped dates and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re caramelized and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the soaked saffron and its liquid to the saucepan, followed by the rice. Stir well to combine.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Date-Sweetened Banana Bread
Sweeten your banana bread game with this Date-Sweetened Banana Bread recipe! This moist and delicious loaf combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of dates, creating a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, chopped dates, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and honey. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Date Chutney
This sweet and spicy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to Indian flatbreads, naan or rice dishes. With its warm flavors of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, it’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a pan, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for another minute.
3. Add the dates, cinnamon, cardamom, chili powder (if using), salt, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes or until the chutney thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Date and Pistachio Ice Cream
This rich and creamy ice cream combines the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty flavor of pistachios, creating a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes with the chopped dates.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container, discarding the dates.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chopped pistachios and vanilla extract.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time
Caramelized Onion and Date Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory flatbread, featuring caramelized onions and dates. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of dates, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread dough to desired thickness.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Top the flatbread with the cooked onions, chopped dates, and a drizzle of honey.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Stuffed Dates with Blue Cheese and Pecans
Elevate your appetizer game with these sweet and savory stuffed dates, featuring creamy blue cheese and crunchy pecans. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted dates
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut a slit down the center of each date, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Stuff each date with about 1/4 teaspoon of blue cheese and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
4. Drizzle the dates with honey and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dates are warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Date and Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Wake up to a delicious and nutritious breakfast with these Date and Cinnamon Overnight Oats. The combination of sweet dates, warm cinnamon, and creamy oats will start your day off right.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup chopped dates
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, chopped dates, honey, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the oats are fully coated with the mixture.
3. Cover the jar and refrigerate overnight for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
4. In the morning, give the oats a stir and add any toppings you like (e.g., sliced banana, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut).
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None – just refrigerate and serve in the morning!
Date and Apricot Compote
This luscious compote combines the natural sweetness of dates with the tanginess of apricots, creating a perfect blend for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a topping for ice cream or pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons orange juice (optional)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dates and apricots.
2. Add the honey, orange juice (if using), and water to the saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
This compote is perfect as a topping or mixed into your favorite recipe. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Dates and Feta
This sweet and savory recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the richness of dates and crumbled feta cheese. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, it’s a flavorful and nutritious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and halve the butternut squash lengthwise; scoop out seeds and pulp.
3. Place squash on a baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Toss dates with a pinch of salt and spread on the baking sheet with the squash for the last 10-15 minutes of roasting.
6. Remove from oven and top with crumbled feta cheese.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat with these 20 delicious date recipes! From classic desserts like sticky date pudding and date-sweetened oatmeal cookies, to savory dishes like Moroccan tagine and roasted butternut squash, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find sweet and salty treats like chocolate-covered dates and bacon-wrapped dates, as well as healthy snacks like date and walnut energy balls and date and almond milkshake. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
