If you're out of BEST Dates, reach for Prunes, Dried Raisins, Dried Cranberries, Dried Cherries, and Jujube.
Prunes
If you're like most people, you probably think of prunes as being nothing more than dried-up plums.
For cooking, Dried Raisins also works well - adjust the amount to taste.
Baking healthier doesn't mean kissing flavor goodbye. In fact, we're here to show you how substituting dates in your baking recipes isn't just good for your waistline; it's a flavor solid option too.
Swapping out sugar for something natural like dates can make your treats not only better for you but also rich in taste.
Dates bring a natural sweetness that's hard to beat, and finding the right substitute can seem tricky.
We've got the inside scoop on the five best alternatives that'll keep your baked goods on the right track. Each one promises to add that perfect hint of sweetness without the guilt.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Dates
1 - Prunes
If you're like most people, you probably think of prunes as being nothing more than dried-up plums.
However, these little fruits pack a big punch when it comes to flavor and nutrition.
Prunes have a sweet and slightly tart taste that is perfect for baked goods and other snacks.
In addition to being a healthy snack option, prunes can also be used in savory dishes to add depth of flavor.
If you're looking for a healthy alternative to dates, prunes are a great option.
Both do they have a similar sweetness, but they are also high in fiber and antioxidants.
Prunes are a fruit that should definitely be on your radar - see dried plums vs prunes comparison to understand subtle differences.
2 - Dried Raisins
Dried raisins are a type of dried fruit that is made by removing the water content from grapes.
They can be enjoyed on their own as a tasty and healthy snack or used as an ingredient in baked goods and other recipes.
One of the benefits of dried raisins is that they can be an excellent substitution for dates - or try sun-dried tomato alternatives for rich flavor in savory bakes.
Dates can be pretty sweet, while raisins have a more mellow flavor.
And since dates can be pretty sticky, substituting dried raisins can also help to cut down on the mess.
So if you're looking for a healthier alternative to dates, dried raisins are definitely worth considering.
3 - Dried Cranberries
Dried cranberries are chewy, tart, and subtly sweet.
They make a good addition to both sweet and savory dishes, and their bright flavor can help to liven up any meal.
Dried cranberries can be used in anything from salads to baked goods, and they make a great healthy snack on their own.
When substituting dried cranberries for dates, keep in mind that the cranberries will be much tarter - and consider dried currant swap ideas for tartness control if a milder flavor is needed.
As a result, you may want to use a little less sugar in your recipe.
You may also want to chop the cranberries up into smaller pieces to help them better blend into the dish.
Overall, dried cranberries are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can add a little something extra to any meal.
4 - Dried Cherries
Dried cherries are a type of fruit that's been preserved by removing their water content.
This gives them a chewy texture and a sweet, intense flavor that's often used in baking or as a topping for oatmeal and other breakfast foods.
While they're available year-round, dried cherries are typically harvested in the summertime.
Because of their high sugar content, dried cherries can help to add sweetness and depth of flavor to recipes.
They can also be a healthy and delicious snack on their own.
One of the benefits of dried cherries is that they're a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
If you're looking for a healthy alternative to dates or other dried fruits, dried cherries may be a good option for you.
They're not as widely available as other types of dried fruit, you can usually find them in well-stocked grocery stores or online.
For recipes that pair sweet dried cherries with savory components, dried shrimp substitute options for seafood pairings help adapt textures when seafood is called for alongside fruit.
5 - Jujube
Jujube, or Chinese date, is a fruit that has been cultivated in China for over 4,000 years.
In addition to being a popular snack food, jujube is also used in traditional Chinese medicine.
The fruit has a unique taste that is somewhat sweet and floral with a hint of bitterness.
Jujube can be eaten fresh, dried, or candied. It can also be used to make tea, syrup, and wine.
In Chinese medicine, jujube is used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
It is also said to boost the immune system and improve circulation.
Because of its many health benefits, jujube is an excellent alternative to dates.
However, it is essential to note that jujube should not be consumed in large quantities as it can cause stomach upset.
You might also want to know how dates compares.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prunes, Dried Raisins, Dried Cranberries, Dried Cherries, and Jujube. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for BEST Dates.
Absolutely. Prunes is the closest swap.
Dried Raisins also works in a pinch. Match the original amount and tweak from there.
Can this substitute be used in baking as well as cooking?
Some work in both, but baking is less forgiving.
Substitutes that alter fat content, sweetness, or moisture can shift the structure of baked goods.
Test with a small batch first.
Frozen substitutes sometimes change texture after thawing. This matters more in raw applications like salads than in cooked dishes where texture is softened by heat anyway.
5 BEST Medjool Date Substitutes explores closely related date swaps. What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Dates? 7 BEST Side Dishes lists complementary sides for stuffed or wrapped date preparations.