Substitutes for Dates: 10 Best Alternatives + FAQs!

Dates are one of the fruits that originate in the Middle East. We have the option of choosing between fresh and dried fruits when it comes to fruits. Both alternatives are utilized in cooking and may be an excellent method to add sweetness and taste to your dishes.

If you look at updates, you’ll notice that they come in many different types, all of which may be used as a substitute for one another. They come in various sizes and have a delicate, sweet feel. Dates are eaten worldwide, and they’re often used to substitute sugar in dishes. They may be made into a paste that you can utilize in cooking for dates.

Is there a way to replace dates if you don’t have any on hand or want to try something different in your dish?

Find out which dried and fresh fruits may be used as a date replacement. Yes, prunes, date syrup, dried raisins, raisin paste, dried cranberries, dried apricots, Medjool dates, jaggery, and jujube can be used in place of dates. Don’t worry if you find it difficult to substitute dates due to their inherent sweetness and size.

We’ve identified the greatest substitutions so you can preserve your dish and produce the most delicious and magnificent cuisine with delicious fragrances. Dates are widely used and popular owing to their nutritional value. They have a naturally sweet flavor that might be beneficial. Other fresh and dried fruits that might have comparable outcomes are listed below.

1. Prunes

Prunes are the first fruit that may successfully replace dates. They have a plum flavor with a hint of sweetness from the drying process. Prunes have a sticky, chewy texture. The main distinction between the two is that prunes are separate from plums, whereas prunes are derived from plums. They have a similar texture and flavor to use interchangeably.

2. Dates Syrups

Date syrup is very similar to and closely connected to dates. It’s a sweetener, and it’s perhaps one of the oldest on the planet. Date syrup has a sweet taste that is reminiscent of honey. They have the same soft touch as well. You may substitute date syrup for fresh dates in recipes. You may use one date to make one tablespoon of date syrup.

3. Dried Raisins

You may always substitute dried raisins if your raisins are out of date. They’re nutritious and include vitamins and minerals. Dried raisins appeal to me because of their inherent sweetness. The texture is the only difference because the texture of dates is creamier. However, you can use dried raisins in recipes that call for dates. They are excellent and naturally dried in the sun.

4. Raisin paste

You may replace dates with a raisin paste, especially if you’re baking. It would help if you first prepared the paste. The flavor may differ from that of fresh raisins. You’ll need to soak them in hot water for around 3 minutes. Then pulse them in a food processor until they have a buttery texture. For each piece of data in your recipe, use 1-2 tablespoons of paste.

4. Cranberries (Dried)

Dried cranberries are also a good substitute. They’re frequently unsweetened, dry, and have a sour flavor. You may substitute them for dates in any recipe that asks for them. Salads, oats, muffins, and other baked items can all benefit from them. Furthermore, because they are dried and classified as dried fruit, they are less likely to deteriorate than fresh fruit.

5. Dried Cherries

Dried cherries are another dried fruit that you may substitute for dates. They are nutrient-dense and contain vitamins. You may use it in almost any dish that calls for dates. Most dried cherries have a sweet, candy-like flavor with hints of tartness. They work well in fruit salads, puddings, and various baked items.

6. Dried Apricots

Dried apricots are another form of healthful dried fruit and may replace dates in any recipe. They have a pleasant and mellow taste. They can even be eaten as a snack. Use smoothies, baked goods, salads, and other dishes to substitute dates. Dried apricots are particularly fascinating since they may be used with cheese, such as gouda, or served as appetizers.

7. Medjool Dates

Medjool dates are a variety of dates that you may use in place of standard dates in recipes. Compared to conventional dates, Medjool dates are softer, but otherwise, they are identical. They have a more prosperous caramel flavor than the others and are chewier. Most recipes that call for regular dates may be substituted with equivalent dates.

8. Jaggery

Because of its sweetness, jaggery may be used as a substitute for dates in most recipes. It’s manufactured from coconut sap and may be used for dates in any recipe. The flavor is described as being somewhere between spicy molasses and creamy caramel. They have a thicker texture than honey. Use a little extra to adjust the sweetness.

9. Jujube fruit

Jujube is a fruit native to Southern Asia; however, it is widely consumed and utilized worldwide. It’s also known as Chinese date, making it an excellent substitution for recipes that call for dates. Jujube is low in calories and abundant in fiber. It’s also nutritious, tiny, sweet, and chewy, making it a good substitute for dates. Jujube may be used in various dishes, including sweets and baked items. Replace with equal quantities or adjust to your personal preference.

Related Questions

Is it possible to use maple syrup for dates?

You may make most of your recipes with maple syrup instead of dates. Even though dates are sweeter than maple syrup, you may substitute them.

What fruits have characteristics that are comparable to dates?

Dates and figs are incredibly similar. They are derived from several plants. They do, however, have incredibly similar nutritional profiles so that you may use them interchangeably in different recipes.

Can I use raisins instead of dates?

Rains are, in fact, the most popular date substitution. If you’re replacing something, make sure you use the same quantity.

How many raisins do you need to make a date?

When replacing raisins for dates, use two tablespoons of raisins for each date in your recipe.