Tea And Party Pick-Up
Delightful tea party treats featuring cheesy, buttery bites filled with dates and pecans, perfect for elegant gatherings or afternoon snacks with a savory-sweet flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the butter and cream it with the grated cheese.
- Add sifted flour, salt, and red pepper; knead the mixture into a dough.
- Pinch off a heaping tablespoon of dough and mold it in the palm of your hand around a date stuffed with a pecan half.
- Place the formed bites on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, until lightly brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother dough, ensure the butter is fully softened but not melted. If sharp cheese is too strong for your palate, consider using a mild cheddar. You can also experiment with nuts—try walnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor. For a bit of crunch, add some crushed crackers to the dough. Remember to keep the dates pitted and stuffed as they can be challenging to work with otherwise.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful bites are perfect for tea parties or casual gatherings, pairing beautifully with light beverages such as iced tea or sparkling water. For a more substantial offering, serve them alongside a fresh salad or fruit platter. They also complement sweet treats like Berries 'N Biscuits Shortcake for a well-rounded dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they are warmed through without losing their texture. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds if you're in a hurry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea And Party Pick-Up contains roughly 239 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 17g fat.
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 a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes! While sharp cheese gives a nice flavor, you can substitute it with gouda or even cream cheese for a milder taste. Just ensure the cheese is easily spreadable to mix well with the butter, maintaining the dough's consistency.
What if I don't have dates on hand?
If dates are unavailable, you can use dried apricots or figs as an alternative. Both will provide a chewy texture and sweetness that complements the cheese and nuts beautifully, though the final flavor may differ slightly.
How can I make these bites vegan?
To adapt this recipe for a vegan diet, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan cheese product. Make sure to check that any nuts and dates you use are also vegan-friendly, as some may have added ingredients.
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).