Dragon Eyes

I read an astonishing statistic the other day—that Americans spend more on Halloween decorations than any other holiday.  And I guess when I think about it—it makes some sense that we like to embrace games that everyone can play.  Halloween, Thanksgiving, the Fourth of July—those are especially fun days to be an American—with no divisions or separations because of culture, religion or any of the other stuff that makes the headlines.  On these days, we can enjoy sharing the fun—adults and children alike.

So here’s a whimsical little snack for your amusement.  With so much candy in the kitchen during Halloween week, this treat is a healthier sweet.

Dragon Eyes

4 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
1 tablespoon honey
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
14 large, pitted dates
14 Craisins, raisin or other small dried berries

In a small bowl, stir together the cream cheese, honey and cinnamon.

Cut the dates in half lengthwise.  Fill each one with a generous teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture.  Gently squeeze one side of each date to open one side wider than the other.  Place a Craisin in the center of the cream cheese mixture.