Dried dates are a pantry staple that’s often overlooked, but they’re incredibly versatile and packed with nutrients. From sweet treats like energy balls and bliss bars, to savory dishes like stuffed chicken and roasted carrots, dates can add natural sweetness and depth of flavor to any recipe. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the incredible potential of dried dates. Whether you’re a health-conscious foodie or just looking for new ways to get your daily dose of fiber and antioxidants, these delicious date pieces are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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Date and walnut energy balls
These bite-sized energy balls are a perfect pick-me-up snack made with wholesome ingredients like dates, walnuts, and oats. They’re easy to make and packed with nutrients to keep you going throughout the day.
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 walnuts and process until coarsely chopped.
3. In a large bowl, combine the date mixture, oats, honey, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture 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 before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are ready straight from the fridge.
Spiced date and almond granola
This sweet and crunchy granola is perfect for snacking or as a topping for your favorite yogurt or oatmeal. The combination of toasted almonds, caramelized dates, and warm spices will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, dates, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey and spices. Pour the mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Spread the granola mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the granola is lightly toasted and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Date and coconut bliss bars
These chewy bars combine the natural sweetness of dates with the tropical flavor of coconut, making them a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped dates, coconut, sugar, flour, and baking powder.
3. Add the melted butter, honey, and salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized date and pecan bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of caramelized dates with the crunch of toasted pecans, perfect for a satisfying snack or breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a small skillet, caramelize the dates over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until sticky and golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined.
5. Fold in the caramelized dates and chopped pecans.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Date and cinnamon oatmeal cookies
Savor the sweetness of dates and warmth of cinnamon in these chewy oatmeal cookies, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add chopped dates, baking powder, and salt; stir until well combined.
4. Stir in melted butter and egg until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate-dipped date truffles
Transform sweet dates into indulgent treats by coating them in rich chocolate and nuts. These bite-sized truffles make a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted Medjool dates
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend the dates with honey and salt until well combined.
2. Roll the date mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Dip each date ball into the melted chocolate, then roll in chopped nuts to coat. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Date and pistachio stuffed chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe, where tender chicken breasts are filled with a rich mixture of dates, pistachios, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dates
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together dates, pistachios, garlic, and parsley.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the date-pistachio mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Date and orange marmalade
This homemade marmalade recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the tanginess of oranges, creating a unique and delicious preserve perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup grated orange zest
Instructions:
1. Combine dates and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Add orange juice, sugar, and orange zest to the saucepan. Stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil again, then reduce heat and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until marmalade has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Date and ginger smoothie bowl
This refreshing smoothie bowl combines the natural sweetness of dates with the spicy warmth of ginger, topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruit. A perfect treat for a hot summer day!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe date, pitted
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Granola and your favorite toppings (e.g., sliced mango, kiwi, or shredded coconut)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine date, ginger, pineapple chunks, banana slices, and almond milk.
2. Blend until smooth, adding ice cubes if desired for a thicker consistency.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with granola and your preferred toppings.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Date and almond butter stuffed apples
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the creamy richness of almond butter, all wrapped up in a crunchy date package. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these stuffed apples are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith apples
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the apples and hollow out the centers, leaving about 1/4 inch of flesh.
3. In a bowl, mix together chopped dates, almond butter, honey, and salt until well combined.
4. Stuff each apple with the date mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
5. Place the stuffed apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Date and quinoa breakfast porridge
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast porridge infused with the natural sweetness of dates and the nutty flavor of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup quinoa
– 1 cup water or plant-based milk
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa to a boil with 1 cup of water or plant-based milk. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
3. Add the chopped dates, honey (if using), and salt to the cooked quinoa. Stir well to combine.
4. Serve warm, garnished with additional chopped dates if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Date and cardamom rice pudding
This aromatic pudding is a unique twist on traditional rice pudding, infused with the sweetness of dates and the warmth of cardamom. Perfect for a comforting dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup chopped dates
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, chopped dates, ground cardamom, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Date and tahini chocolate brownies
Date and Tahini Chocolate Brownies: A rich and fudgy treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty flavor of tahini, all wrapped up in a decadent chocolate package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups dark brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a blender or food processor, blend dates and tahini until smooth.
3. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add flour, baking powder, and salt to the saucepan. Whisk until just combined.
5. Fold in date-tahini mixture and chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Date and banana muffins
Moist and flavorful date and banana muffins that are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped dates
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, honey, yogurt, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add chopped dates to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.
5. Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Date and pumpkin seed energy bars
These chewy bars are packed with natural sweetness from dates and a crunchy texture from pumpkin seeds, making them the perfect on-the-go snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, dates, pumpkin seeds, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. In a small saucepan, heat honey, coconut oil, and vanilla extract over low heat, stirring until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms.
5. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Date and rosemary roasted carrots
This recipe transforms humble carrots into a sweet and savory masterpiece, perfect for a side dish or as a unique accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the carrots with the olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Add the chopped dates and rosemary to the bowl; toss to combine.
4. Spread the carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Date and balsamic glazed salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and tangy date and balsamic glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of dates, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar with the simplicity of pan-seared salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dates, balsamic glaze, brown sugar, and honey.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the date mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Date and dark chocolate trail mix
Elevate your snack game with this indulgent Date and dark chocolate trail mix. A perfect blend of crunchy, chewy, and rich flavors that’s sure to satisfy any craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and chopped dates.
3. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Pour melted chocolate over the oat mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with vanilla extract and sea salt.
6. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! This trail mix is ready in no time.
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