Maple Nut Filled Dates

For a bite of something quick, rich, and sweet, try these cheese-filled dates, which make a great appetizer or après-ski snack.

10 Medjool dates
¼ cup soft cheese
1 Tbsp. butter
¼ cup walnuts, chopped
¼ cup pure maple syrup

Cut dates in half lengthwise and remove pits. Spoon about ½ tsp. cheese into the cavity of each date half. Arrange dates on a serving plate.

Melt butter in a 1-2-quart pan over low heat, then increase heat to medium and cook until butter is foamy and starting to brown. Add nuts and stir constantly for 1 minute. Add syrup and reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.

Lift nuts from the syrup with a slotted spoon and press a few pieces into the soft cheese in each date. Drizzle syrup over the dates and serve warm.