Maple-Pecan Stuffed Dates
Sweet, chewy dates filled with toasted pecans and maple glaze for a simple dessert. This american-inspired desserts ready in about 10 minutes layers medjool dates, pecan pieces, maple syrup into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 60 calories and feeds 12, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 12 medjool dates
- 1/4 cup pecan pieces
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup pecan pieces, 2 tbsp maple syrup, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 2: Gently stuff each pitted medjool date with 1 teaspoon of the pecan mixture, pressing lightly to fill.
- Step 3: Place the stuffed dates on a serving plate and drizzle any remaining mixture over the top.
- Step 4: Serve immediately for the best texture.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Maple-Pecan Stuffed Dates take to make?
Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Maple-Pecan Stuffed Dates?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Maple-Pecan Stuffed Dates?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Maple-Pecan Stuffed Dates for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 12 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 12). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Maple-Pecan Stuffed Dates?
American desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.