1. On a work surface, halve 12 almonds lengthwise. Set aside in a small bowl until ready to serve. Finely chop the remaining almonds.
2. In a bowl, combine the chopped almonds with the remaining ingredients except for the dates, icing sugar and halved almonds.
3. On a work surface, using a small knife, make an incision down the length of each date. Remove the pits, being careful to keep the base of the dates attached. Fill the inside of the dates with about 1 tsp of the nut mixture.
4. Decorate each date with an almond half. Sprinkle with icing sugar (see Chef’s tip). Place on a serving dish.

Chef’s tip

The stuffed dates can be prepared in advanced and sprinkled with icing sugar just before serving.