Are you a sucker for sweet treats? Do you find yourself reaching for dates whenever you’re craving something indulgent? You’re not alone! Dates are a natural source of sweetness, packed with nutrients and antioxidants that make them a great alternative to refined sugars. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast option or a decadent dessert, dates can be used in a variety of creative ways.
From classic date-based desserts like sticky puddings and truffles, to savory dishes like tagines and glazed hams, we’ve rounded up 18 delicious date recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a foodie looking for inspiration or just trying to get out of your culinary comfort zone, these recipes will show you the versatility and deliciousness of dates in all their forms.
Sticky Date Pudding with Caramel Sauce
A classic Australian dessert, Sticky Date Pudding is a warm and comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of year. This recipe combines the rich flavors of dates, caramel sauce, and creamy whipped cream to create a delightful dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine dates, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Serve warm with caramel sauce and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Medjool Date and Walnut Energy Balls
A sweet and satisfying snack that’s packed with natural energy boosters, these Medjool date and walnut energy balls are a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted Medjool dates
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine dates and process until coarsely chopped.
2. Add walnuts, oats, and honey to the processor. Process until well combined and slightly sticky.
3. Roll mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Place energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are no-bake and ready to enjoy in just a few minutes.
Date and Banana Smoothie Bowl
Get ready to start your day with a deliciously healthy treat! This Date and Banana Smoothie Bowl combines the natural sweetness of dates and bananas with the creaminess of Greek yogurt, topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– Fresh berries or sliced almonds for topping
Instructions:
1. Add the bananas, dates, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with Greek yogurt, granola, and your choice of fresh berries or sliced almonds.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your nutritious Date and Banana Smoothie Bowl!
Date-Sweetened Chocolate Truffles
Rich and indulgent, these truffles combine the natural sweetness of dates with the deep flavor of dark chocolate. Perfect for a special treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine dates and 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Blend until smooth.
2. Melt the butter and vanilla extract in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the date mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Roll the cooled date mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly.
6. Place the truffles on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Moroccan Date and Almond Tagine
This sweet and savory tagine is a classic Moroccan dish that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch of almonds, all wrapped up in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup almonds, slivered
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large clay or ceramic tagine or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, dates, almonds, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook over low heat for 30-40 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Date and Oat Breakfast Bars
Start your day with a wholesome and delicious breakfast bar packed with dates and oats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
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, brown sugar, honey, and almonds. Mix until well combined.
3. Add baking powder and salt; mix again.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Cut into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Elevate your appetizer game with this surprisingly simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the rich flavor of goat cheese and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into 1-inch pieces and wrap each date with a piece of bacon.
3. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and top each date with crumbled goat cheese.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Date and Coconut Bliss Balls
A sweet and satisfying treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the creamy richness of coconut, perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend the dates until smooth.
2. Add the coconut, oats, honey, and salt. Process until well combined.
3. If using chocolate chips, fold them into the mixture.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the bliss balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None required! Just refrigerate and enjoy.
Persian Date and Cardamom Shake
Experience the sweet and aromatic flavors of Persian cuisine with this refreshing shake. This unique blend combines the natural sweetness of dates, the warmth of cardamom, and the creaminess of milk to create a delicious and rejuvenating drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the dates, cardamom, and ice cream.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding honey if desired.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Date and Pecan Stuffed Apples
A sweet and crunchy twist on traditional apples, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty flavor of pecans for a delicious fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety, but firmer apples like Granny Smith work best)
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Core the apples, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
3. In a bowl, mix together chopped dates, pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Stuff each apple with the date-pecan mixture, dividing it evenly among the apples.
5. Place the stuffed apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Date-Sweetened Banana Bread
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this moist and delicious Date-Sweetened Banana Bread recipe. With the natural sweetness of dates and ripe bananas, you won’t need to add refined sugars.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, soaked in water and chopped
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
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 coconut oil, egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Let cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Date Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to naan bread, crackers, or even as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. The combination of dates, spices, and vinegar creates a complex flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine dates, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the dates are tender.
3. Stir in grated ginger, cinnamon, cumin, and salt.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Date and Dark Chocolate Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and indulgent tart, featuring sweet dates and velvety dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)
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. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dates and honey until well combined. Spread date mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Pour melted chocolate over the date mixture.
5. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg for glaze. Fold edges of pastry up to form a crust around the filling.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is warm and bubbly.
7. Let cool completely before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Date and Almond Butter Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a twist on classic French toast by incorporating the natural sweetness of dates and the nutty flavor of almond butter. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or brioche work well)
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– Pinch of salt
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. While the French toast is cooking, mix together chopped dates and almond butter in a small bowl.
6. Once the French toast is cooked, spread one-quarter of the date-almond butter mixture on each slice.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup or honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Date and Ginger Glazed Ham
Date and Ginger Glazed Ham Recipe
Elevate your holiday meal with this sweet and savory date and ginger glazed ham, perfect for special occasions or everyday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine dates, brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and grated ginger. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer with a sharp knife.
4. Brush the date glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including 1 hour of covered cooking)
Date and Tahini Energy Bars
A sweet and satisfying snack that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty flavor of tahini, perfect for a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend the dates and oats until well combined.
2. Add the tahini, honey, and salt. Process until smooth.
3. If desired, stir in the chopped almonds.
4. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: None required – these bars are no-bake!
Date and Orange Marmalade
This sweet and tangy marmalade is a perfect combination of dates and orange zest, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 2 cups water
– 4 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup orange zest (grated)
– 1 lemon slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the dates and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add the sugar, orange juice, and orange zest to the saucepan. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the marmalade has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Date and Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Start your day with a sweet and comforting breakfast that’s packed with fiber and flavor. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the warmth of cinnamon, all in a creamy oat bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 date, pitted and chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: sliced banana or nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and chopped date.
2. Add cinnamon and salt, stirring until well combined.
3. Cover the jar and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
4. In the morning, give the mixture a stir and add any desired toppings (such as sliced banana or nuts).
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 18 mouthwatering date recipes! From classic sticky puddings to healthy energy balls and decadent truffles, there’s something for every craving. Try pairing dates with caramel sauce, walnuts, or bananas, or get creative with Moroccan tagines, breakfast bars, and stuffed apples. You’ll also find sweet treats like chocolate tarts, French toast, and glazed ham. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and indulgent or healthy and wholesome, these date recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
