Can I use regular cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

Yes, but mascarpone gives that ultra-luxe texture. If you use cream cheese, mix with a touch of heavy cream for silkiness.

Are these gluten-free?

Absolutely — dates, mascarpone, pecans, and maple are naturally gluten-free.

Up to 3 days refrigerated. Reheat gently before serving.

Yes — omit pecans and consider a sprinkle of toasted coconut or crushed pistachios if you want a crunch alternative.

Totally. They scale easily. Plan on 2–3 per person as hors d’oeuvres.

A lighter take on a southern classic — sweet, creamy, and ready in minutes with minimal fuss.

Scale

Set your oven to broil and slide the rack into the highest slot so the heat is close to the food.
Make a lengthwise cut in each date and open it up to form a little pocket. Remove any remaining pit pieces.
Spoon or pipe a small amount of mascarpone into each date so it’s nicely filled but not overflowing.
Press a pinch of the chopped pecans onto the cheese in each date so they stick.
Arrange the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil. Drizzle the maple syrup evenly over the tops.
Broil for about 2–4 minutes, keeping a close eye on them — you want the edges to warm and the syrup to bubble, not burn.
Let the dates cool briefly on the tray, then serve warm or at room temperature.

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Rewarm briefly in a low oven if you prefer them warm again.
Quick tip: If your mascarpone is very firm, let it sit at room temperature a bit so it’s easy to spoon or pipe.