Medjool dates substitutes
Medjool dates substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Regular dates
Same amount as the Medjool dates
Similar dates with different size and texture.
The best substitutes for medjool dates are regular dates, prunes, or other dried fruits like figs or raisins, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Medjool dates | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Regular datesbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Prunesbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Figsbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Raisinsbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Dried apricotsbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Dried cranberriesbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Regular dates
similar taste, different texture
Similar dates with different size and texture.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, snacking, cooking
Different size, similar flavor.
Prunes
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried fruit with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, snacking, cooking
Different flavor, similar texture.
Figs
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried fruit with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, snacking, cooking
Different flavor, similar texture.
Raisins
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried fruit with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, snacking, cooking
Different flavor, similar texture.
Dried apricots
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried fruit with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, snacking, cooking
Different flavor, similar texture.
Dried cranberries
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried fruit with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, snacking, cooking
Different flavor, similar texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use regular dates instead of medjool dates?
Yes, regular dates are a good substitute for medjool dates. They have similar flavor and can be used in most recipes that call for medjool dates.
What's the difference between medjool dates and regular dates?
Medjool dates are larger and have a softer, chewier texture, while regular dates are smaller and may be firmer. Both have similar flavor profiles and can be used interchangeably.
Can I use prunes instead of medjool dates?
Yes, prunes can work as a substitute, though they may have a different flavor. They have similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
Why are medjool dates so popular in healthy baking?
Medjool dates are popular in healthy baking because they're a natural sweetener that adds moisture and sweetness to baked goods without refined sugar.
Tips for substituting Medjool dates
6 tips- Medjool dates add natural sweetness and caramel-like flavor to dishes
- Medjool dates can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Medjool dates pair well with nuts, spices, and other dried fruits
- Medjool dates work well in baking and desserts
- Medjool dates can be used to make energy bars and smoothies
- Store medjool dates in the refrigerator or pantry