Cover and cook over simmering water, turning once, until the dates are plump and softened and their skins are curling off, 15 to 20 minutes. Let the dates cool somewhat and peel off the skins while they are still warm. Stuff the dates with:
30 whole blanched almonds
Mix together in a small bowl:
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Grated zest of 1 orange
Roll the stuffed dates in the spiced sugar and let them dry on a plate for a few hours. Pack them layered between sheets of wax paper or aluminum foil in an airtight tin. Let them dry for several days before eating. Stored in an airtight tin, these dates will keep for up to 3 months.