Submitted by Kristin B.
Slice dates lengthwise on one side, taking care not to slice all the way through. Using fingers, gently open dates so that the cavity is accessible.
Place espresso and cocoa powder each in a small shallow bowl. Fully submerge each date in espresso, then roll around in cocoa powder. Shake excess cocoa powder off. Set coated dates on a serving platter.
In a medium bowl, add mascarpone, heavy cream, confectioner’s sugar, and vanilla. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to beat until mixture is smooth, creamy, and lump-free.
Transfer mascarpone mixture to a piping bag and pipe mixture to fill date cavities (or use a small spoon to spoon mixture into cavities). Return dates to serving platter.
Using a small sifter, dust dates lightly with a little more cocoa powder.
Serve and enjoy!