Savory Blue Cheese & Date Delights
Indulge in these delightful Savory Blue Cheese & Date Delights, a recipe sure to impress your guests at any gathering. Adapted from the *Finger Food* cookbook by the Australian Women's Weekly, this finger food marries the rich, tangy flavor of blue cheese with the sweet, chewy texture of dates. The addition of creamy cheese and the subtle kick of brandy creates a bold, savory spread that complements the crispness of water crackers perfectly. Each bite delivers a harmonious balance of sweet and savory that will have everyone asking for more. Prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time for a quick assembly just before serving. Garnished with fresh parsley, these bites are not only delicious but also a beautiful addition to your appetizer spread. *Enjoy* every exquisite mouthful!
25
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Blue cheese
5 ounces (crumbled)
Cream cheese
3 ounces (softened)
Brandy
1 teaspoon
Fresh chives
1 teaspoon (chopped)
Dates
4 (pitted and sliced into fine strips)
Water crackers
25
Fresh parsley sprig
for garnish
Instructions
1
In a small mixing bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, softened cream cheese, brandy, and chopped chives.
2
Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until well blended and creamy.
3
Prepare the dates by pitting and slicing them into very fine strips.
4
Cover and refrigerate the cheese mixture for at least one hour, or up to two days for best flavor.
5
Just before serving, take the cheese mixture out of the refrigerator. Spread or pipe the mixture onto each water cracker.
6
Top each cracker with a few strips of sliced dates and a sprig of fresh parsley for garnish.
7
Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Blue Cheese & Date Delights?
It is a savory finger food appetizer that combines the tangy flavor of blue cheese with the sweetness of dates on crisp water crackers.
What kind of blue cheese is best for this recipe?
A creamy blue cheese like Gorgonzola or a mild Roquefort works best to achieve a smooth and spreadable consistency.
Can I substitute the brandy?
Yes, you can substitute brandy with sherry or cognac, or use apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
How do I soften cream cheese quickly?
You can leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it on low power for 15-20 seconds.
What can I use instead of water crackers?
Baguette slices, crostini, or even sliced apples and pears are excellent alternatives to water crackers.
Can I make the cheese mixture ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese mixture can be prepared and refrigerated up to two days before you plan to serve it.
How long does the cheese mixture need to chill?
The mixture should be refrigerated for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I freeze the Savory Blue Cheese & Date mixture?
Freezing is not recommended as it can negatively affect the texture of the cream cheese and blue cheese.
What types of dates are recommended?
Medjool dates are ideal because they are large, sweet, and have a soft texture that is easy to slice.
How do I slice the dates into fine strips?
First pit the dates, then use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to cut them lengthwise into very thin pieces.
Can I use dried chives instead of fresh?
Fresh chives are preferred for flavor, but you can use about 1/3 teaspoon of dried chives if necessary.
Is there a substitute for the parsley garnish?
Fresh thyme sprigs or a small bit of watercress can be used as an alternative garnish.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make approximately 25 individual appetizers.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
Is this appetizer gluten-free?
The spread is gluten-free, but you must use gluten-free crackers instead of standard water crackers.
Can I use a different type of alcohol besides brandy?
Port wine or bourbon can be used to provide a different but equally sophisticated flavor profile.
What if I want to omit the alcohol entirely?
You can simply omit the brandy or replace it with a teaspoon of milk or cream to maintain the texture.
What if I do not have an electric mixer?
You can use a sturdy whisk or a fork to blend the ingredients, though it will require more manual effort to get it creamy.
Can I pipe the cheese mixture onto the crackers?
Yes, using a piping bag with a star tip creates a more decorative and professional look for your appetizers.
How do I prevent the crackers from getting soggy?
Assemble the crackers just before serving to ensure the base remains crisp.
Are there other toppings that pair well with this?
A drizzle of honey or crushed toasted walnuts would complement the sweet and savory flavors well.
Can I serve this as a dip?
Yes, you can place the cheese mixture in a bowl and serve it alongside the crackers and date strips for a DIY approach.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Some children may find the blue cheese and brandy flavors too strong; you might consider a milder cheese version for them.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any remaining cheese mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, though the final spread may be slightly less rich and less firm than the full-fat version.
What other herbs can be used in the mixture?
Finely chopped fresh parsley or a hint of rosemary can be used in place of or in addition to chives.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely, adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the mixture or as a topping adds a nice crunch.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This recipe is adapted from the Australian Women's Weekly Finger Food cookbook.
Can I use goat cheese instead of blue cheese?
Yes, goat cheese is a great substitute if you want a tangy flavor without the specific punch of blue cheese.
How do I pit a date?
Slice the date lengthwise until you hit the pit, then pull the sides apart and remove the hard stone with your fingers.