15+ With Dates Recipes to Sweeten Your Meals

Dates are a versatile and healthy ingredient that can add sweetness and texture to various dishes. From snacks to desserts, incorporating dates into your recipes can enhance flavor while providing nutritional benefits. These fruits are naturally sweet and can be used in many ways, from energy bites to salads and baked goods.

Exploring recipes with dates opens up a world of culinary creativity. Whether you enjoy them as a quick treat or part of a more complex dish, dates can be a delightful addition to your kitchen endeavors. Start experimenting with these recipes to discover delicious ways to enjoy this nutritious fruit.

1) Date Rolls

Date rolls are a delicious and healthy snack. They are easy to make and require just a few ingredients. You can enjoy them as a sweet treat or a quick energy boost.

To make date rolls, start with pitted dates. Combine them with nuts, like cashews or almonds. You can also add coconut and a bit of vanilla for extra flavor.

Once mixed, form the mixture into small rolls. You can coat them in powdered sugar or shredded coconut for a nice finish. These bites are perfect for on-the-go snacks or dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pitted dates
• 1 cup nuts (cashews, almonds, or mixed)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: shredded coconut or powdered sugar for coating

Cooking Instructions

1. In a food processor, blend the pitted dates until smooth.
2. Add nuts, coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls or logs.
4. Coat with shredded coconut or powdered sugar if desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

2) Date Shakes

Date shakes are a delicious and healthy treat that you can easily make at home. They are creamy, sweet, and packed with nutrients. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a refreshing drink perfect for breakfast or a snack.

To make a classic date shake, you will need Medjool dates, milk, and ice cream. This combination creates a rich and satisfying flavor. You can also add cinnamon or vanilla for extra taste.

Ingredients

• 5 Medjool dates, pitted
• 1 cup milk (250 ml)
• 1 cup vanilla ice cream (250 ml)
• Optional: 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Cooking Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the Medjool dates and milk. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the ice cream and blend again until well mixed.
3. If using, add cinnamon and blend for a few seconds.
4. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

3) Broccoli Date Crunch Salad

This Broccoli Date Crunch Salad is a tasty and healthy option. The mix of fresh broccoli and sweet dates creates a delightful contrast. Add some crunchy nuts for texture and flavor.

You’ll need to toss the broccoli with cabbage and a bit of salt. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to soften. Then, add the chopped dates and nuts to the mix.

For a delicious dressing, combine your favorite ingredients and toss everything together gently. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 cup peanuts or cashews
• Salt, to taste
• Dressing of your choice

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli and cabbage with salt.
2. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
3. Add dates and nuts to the bowl.
4. Toss in your favorite dressing gently.
5. Serve and enjoy!

4) Date Cookies

Date cookies are a tasty treat that you can easily make at home. They are flavorful, chewy, and offer a nice sweetness thanks to the dates. You can add nuts for extra crunch, making them perfect for snacks or dessert.

To make these cookies, start by mixing your ingredients together. The soft dates blend well with butter and spices, creating a delightful flavor. These cookies are also great for sharing during gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, and spices.
3. Add chopped dates and nuts, then stir in flour, salt, and baking powder.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden. Let cool before serving.

5) Date Bars

Date bars are a sweet treat that combines flavors and textures perfectly. They often have a chewy filling made mainly from dates, making them naturally sweet. You can enjoy these as a snack or dessert.

To make date bars, you generally need oats, butter, and of course, dates. Some recipes add nuts or chocolate for extra flavor. They are easy to prepare and very satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1 cup oatmeal
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the melted butter, oatmeal, and brown sugar.
3. Press half the mixture into a baking dish.
4. Spread the chopped dates evenly over the base.
5. Crumble the remaining mixture on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before cutting into squares.

6) Stuffed Dates with Peanut Butter

Stuffed dates with peanut butter are a delicious and healthy snack. They are quick to make and satisfy your sweet cravings without being too heavy.

To prepare, simply choose fresh Medjool dates. Carefully slice them open to remove the pit. Then, fill each date with creamy peanut butter. You can also choose to sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for extra crunch.

These treats are naturally vegan and gluten-free. They make for an excellent dessert or a pick-me-up snack any time of the day.

Ingredients

• 10 Medjool dates
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• Chopped nuts (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you want to warm the stuffed dates.
2. Slice each date open and remove the pit.
3. Fill each date with peanut butter.
4. (Optional) Sprinkle chopped nuts on top.
5. Serve as is, or place in the oven for 5 minutes to warm. Enjoy!

7) Date Bark with Chocolate and Peanuts

Date bark is a delicious and healthy snack you can easily make at home. This recipe combines sweet medjool dates with creamy peanut butter, smooth chocolate, and crunchy peanuts. The result is a treat that tastes like a candy bar but is filled with nutritious ingredients.

Start by melting your chocolate. You can use dark or milk chocolate based on your preference. Next, spread peanut butter over the dates and sprinkle chopped peanuts on top before drizzling with melted chocolate. Let it cool and harden, then cut into pieces for a tasty snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup medjool dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk)
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Cooking Instructions

1. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Spread peanut butter on each date.
3. Place chopped peanuts on top of the peanut butter.
4. Drizzle melted chocolate over the dates.
5. Refrigerate until set, then cut into pieces.

8) 15-Minute Date Balls

Making date balls is quick and easy. You can have a tasty snack ready in just 15 minutes. These little bites are naturally sweetened and full of nutrition.

To make date balls, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. You can use dates, nuts, and oats. A bit of nut butter adds creaminess and flavor.

Start by mixing everything in a food processor. Blend until the mixture sticks together. Then, roll it into small balls. You can keep them in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients

• 14 dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup oats
• 16 nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
• 2 tablespoons nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)

Cooking Instructions

1. Place dates, oats, nuts, and nut butter in a food processor.
2. Blend until the mixture is sticky.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls.
4. Store in the fridge. Enjoy!

9) Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

Goat cheese stuffed dates are a delicious and simple appetizer. You can make them for a party or just for yourself. The sweetness of the dates pairs perfectly with the creamy goat cheese.

To start, slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit. Then, stuff them with your desired amount of goat cheese. You can add other toppings, like nuts or herbs, for extra flavor.

Once they’re stuffed, lay them on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This will warm the cheese and enhance the flavors.

Enjoy these tasty bites as a sweet and salty treat!

Ingredients

• Medjool dates
• Goat cheese
• Pine nuts or chopped herbs (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit.
3. Stuff each date with goat cheese.
4. Top with pine nuts or herbs, if using.
5. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes.

10) Ice Cream with Olive Oil and Dates

This recipe combines creamy vanilla ice cream with the rich taste of olive oil and sweet dates. It’s a simple yet delightful treat. You can use store-bought ice cream to save time.

Start by lightly caramelizing pitted dates in a pan. This adds a nice texture and flavor. Drizzle high-quality olive oil over the ice cream. It brings a unique taste that enhances the sweetness of the dates.

Serve the ice cream with the warm dates on top. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the flavors even further. This dish is perfect for a hot day or as a fancy dessert for guests.

Ingredients

• Vanilla ice cream
• Pitted dates
• High-quality olive oil
• Sea salt (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a small pan over medium heat.
2. Add pitted dates and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Scoop ice cream into bowls.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the ice cream.
5. Top with warm, caramelized dates.
6. Add a sprinkle of sea salt if desired. Enjoy!

11) Roasted Fennel and Farro Salad with Dates

This Roasted Fennel and Farro Salad with dates is a delicious blend of flavors. The sweetness of the dates pairs perfectly with the savory roasted fennel. You’ll also enjoy the crunch of olives and the warm spice from red pepper flakes.

It’s a colorful dish that looks great on any table. The nutty farro adds a hearty texture, making it a filling salad. You can serve it warm or cold, depending on your preference.

Ingredients

• 1 cup farro
• 1 large fennel bulb, sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 1/2 cup olives, sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley), for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sliced fennel with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden.
4. Cook farro according to package instructions and drain.
5. In a bowl, combine farro, roasted fennel, dates, olives, and red pepper flakes.
6. Mix well and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

12) Pan-Seared Chicken with Dates and Citrus

This dish features juicy chicken thighs cooked to perfection with a mix of dates and citrus. The sweetness of the caramelized dates pairs nicely with the tangy citrus for a balanced flavor.

You’ll start by searing the chicken until golden brown. Then, add a mix of harissa, honey, and citrus juice for a tasty sauce. The result is a vibrant meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken thighs
• ¼ cup harissa
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 navel oranges, juiced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Sear chicken in the skillet for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. In a bowl, mix harissa, honey, cumin, and orange juice.
5. Add the garlic and sauce to the skillet.
6. Cook for an additional 5-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

13) Pork Chops with Kale and Dates

Pork chops with kale and dates is a delicious dish that combines savory and sweet flavors. The pork chops are juicy and tender, served over a bed of sautéed kale and sweet dates. This meal is not only tasty but also offers good nutrition.

To make this dish, you will need fresh ingredients for the best flavor. The kale adds a nice texture, while the dates bring a hint of sweetness to balance the savory pork.

Ingredients

• 4 pork chops
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Cook pork chops for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (145°F or 63°C).
4. Remove pork chops and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add garlic, kale, and dates. Sauté until the kale wilts.
6. Add vinegar and stir well.
7. Serve the pork chops on a bed of kale and dates. Enjoy!

14) Sweet and Nutty Date Cookies

Sweet and nutty date cookies are a delightful treat you can easily make at home. The combination of dates and nuts brings a rich flavor and chewy texture that you’ll love. These cookies are a perfect snack alongside your favorite beverage.

You can create these cookies by mixing chopped dates with nuts like pecans or walnuts. The natural sweetness from the dates means you might not need much added sugar. Enjoy these cookies fresh from the oven for a warm, comforting bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix butter and brown sugar until creamy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Combine flour, baking soda, and salt in another bowl.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture.
6. Fold in chopped dates and nuts.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden.

15) Chunky Date Mash

Chunky Date Mash is a simple and delicious treat. It’s perfect for spreading on toast or adding to smoothies. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of dates.

To make your Chunky Date Mash, start with some pitted Medjool dates. They have a wonderful flavor and are soft enough to mash easily. Add a bit of water for a smoother texture.

You can mix it with nuts, peanut butter, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor. It’s versatile and can fit into various diets, like vegan or paleo.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pitted Medjool dates
• 2 tablespoons water
• Optional: nuts, peanut butter, or sea salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Place the dates in a bowl.
2. Add the water. Then, microwave for 30 seconds.
3. Mash the dates with a fork until chunky.
4. Mix in any additional ingredients you like.