Preheat oven to 375°. Pit dates by slicing open lengthwise on 1 side.

Whip cream cheese with vanilla. Using pastry bag, pipe cream cheese into center of each date. Lay dates on prepared baking sheet, cream cheese side up. Top each with pecan half, rounded side up. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cheese just begins to turn golden. Serve in an artistic pattern.

*Can use vegan cream cheese.

**Can use walnuts instead or exclude nuts altogether.

As a keto option, stuffed dates can be wrapped in a half slice of bacon and secured with a toothpick before baking. For this variation, add 5–7 minutes cooking time.