What's the Best Substitute for Fig?
Whether you're out of Fig or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Sweet, soft fruit with a unique texture and honey-like flavor, commonly used in desserts, preserves, and savory dishes In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for figs are dates, prunes, or apricots, depending on the recipe.
Best Substitutes for Fig
Dates
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- snacks
- preserves
Description
Sweet dried fruit with similar texture and sweetness to figs.
Remove pit before using. Dates are slightly sweeter than figs.
Prunes
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- snacks
- preserves
Description
Dried plums with similar texture and sweetness to figs.
Prunes are slightly more tart than figs. Soak in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate.
Apricots
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- salads
- preserves
Description
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to figs.
Remove pit before using. Apricots are slightly more tart than figs.
Canned Figs
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- sauces
- preserves
Description
Convenient substitute when fresh figs aren't available. Choose figs in light syrup or water.
Drain well before using. May be softer than fresh figs, so adjust cooking time.
Raisins
Ratio
1:2 (1 cup fresh = 1/2 cup raisins)
Best For
- baking
- cereals
- trail mix
- cooking
Description
Dried grapes with concentrated sweetness and chewy texture.
Soak raisins in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate before using.
Peaches
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- smoothies
- snacks
Description
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to figs.
Choose ripe, soft peaches for best texture. Slightly less sweet than figs.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Fig, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Choose figs that are plump, soft, and have a sweet aroma
Store fresh figs in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 days
Freeze figs for smoothies or as a frozen snack
Figs pair well with honey, nuts, cheese, and herbs like thyme and rosemary
For salads, cut figs into quarters for best presentation
Figs are best served at room temperature for maximum flavor
Remove the stem before using figs in recipes
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications