Aunt Sue'S Stuffed Dates
Sweet, creamy stuffed dates coated with a homemade fondant, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and elegant enough for special occasions or teatime treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Gradually add 4 cups of the sifted confectioners sugar to the sweetened condensed milk, blending well. Mix in salt and vanilla and almond extracts.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of confectioners sugar on a board and knead the fondant until smooth and creamy, working in the sugar.
- Wrap the fondant in aluminum foil and let ripen for 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Stuff the pitted dates with the prepared fondant, then top with walnut halves, coconut, or bits of candied cherries.
- Makes enough fondant to fill 9 to 10 dozen dates.
Tips & Substitutions
To make the fondant easier to handle, ensure your sweetened condensed milk is at room temperature. If you prefer a different flavor, try using maple extract instead of almond. For a nut-free option, omit the nuts and consider using dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a sweet twist. This recipe can also be adapted to create variations similar to Currant Ginger Shortbread.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed dates are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack. Serve them on a platter alongside cheese and crackers for a delightful appetizer spread. They also pair beautifully with Fresh Fruit With Maple-Vanilla Yogurt Dip(Makes 8 Servings) for a refreshing contrast. Consider adding a small bowl of honey or chocolate sauce for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Sue'S Stuffed Dates contains roughly 990 calories, with 21g protein, 154g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (59% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2091mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsweetened condensed milk instead of sweetened?
No, using unsweetened condensed milk will alter the flavor and texture of the fondant significantly. Sweetened condensed milk is essential for achieving the right level of sweetness and creaminess in the filling. Always stick to sweetened for the best results.
How do I know when the fondant is ready to use?
The fondant will be ready to use after it has ripened in the refrigerator for 24 hours. It should be smooth and pliable, making it easy to stuff into the dates. If it's too sticky, knead in a little more sifted confectioners sugar until the desired consistency is achieved.
Can I make these stuffed dates ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fondant and stuff the dates up to a week in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. For optimal freshness, serve them within a few days of preparation.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).