Pin this A stunning and festive platter featuring dates shaped into moons and stars, filled with nuts and citrus, and elegantly garnished for special occasions.
This platter always impresses guests at special gatherings and brings a touch of Middle Eastern sweetness to the table.
Ingredients
- Dates & Fillings: 20 large Medjool dates pitted, 50 g blanched almonds, 50 g pistachios shelled and unsalted, 40 g unsweetened shredded coconut, 1 orange zest only, 2 tbsp orange blossom water
- Decoration: Edible gold leaf optional, 1 tbsp sesame seeds, 2 tbsp honey for brushing
Instructions
- Slice Dates:
- Slice each date lengthwise on one side and remove the pit keeping the date as whole as possible
- Shape Dates:
- Using small cookie cutters shape half the dates into crescents moons and the other half into stars by gently pressing and trimming the fruit
- Prepare Filling:
- Lightly crush the almonds and pistachios then mix with the orange zest coconut and orange blossom water until combined
- Fill Dates:
- Carefully spoon or press the nut filling into each date shaping it to follow the contours of the moon and star shapes
- Arrange:
- Arrange the filled dates onto a serving platter in a decorative pattern
- Glaze:
- Warm the honey slightly and brush over the dates for shine Sprinkle with sesame seeds and apply edible gold leaf pieces for a luxurious finish if desired
Pin this This recipe creates a sweet family moment where everyone enjoys the beauty and taste of the handcrafted dates together
Required Tools
Small star and crescent moon cookie cutters small mixing bowl sharp paring knife pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts almonds pistachios May contain traces of sesame Ensure dates and other ingredients are processed in allergen-safe facilities if required
Nutritional Information
Calories 100 Total Fat 3 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 2 g per serving
Pin this Enjoy this elegant platter as a delightful treat that combines flavor and artistry in every bite
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How are the moon and star shapes created from dates?
Using small cookie cutters, the pitted dates are carefully sliced and pressed into crescent (moon) and star shapes without damaging the fruit’s integrity.
- → What nuts are used for the filling?
The filling includes crushed blanched almonds and shelled pistachios, blended with orange zest and shredded coconut for texture and flavor.
- → Can the honey be substituted for a vegan option?
Yes, honey can be replaced with agave syrup or another plant-based sweetener for a vegan-friendly finish.
- → What purpose does the orange blossom water serve?
Orange blossom water adds a delicate floral aroma and enhances the citrus notes in the nut filling, complementing the freshness of orange zest.
- → How should this platter be served for best enjoyment?
Arrange the filled dates elegantly on a serving dish and consider pairing them with refreshing mint tea to highlight the Middle Eastern flavors.