Out of Medjool dates, one case
Deglet dates substitute for Medjool dates
4 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Deglet dates
Same amount as the Medjool dates
Yes, you can substitute deglet dates for medjool dates using a 1:1 ratio. Deglet dates are smaller and firmer, so you may need to use more pieces or adjust the recipe slightly for texture.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- baking
One casethe full Medjool dates card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Medjool dates | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deglet datesbaking | Same amountBy weight) or 1½:1 (by countTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Regular datesbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Prunesbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Dried figsbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Deglet dates
similar taste, different texture
Smaller, firmer dates with similar sweet flavor but different texture
- Best for
- baking, desserts, energy bars, smoothies, cooking
Use more pieces since deglet dates are smaller. Soak in warm water for 10 minutes to soften if needed for baking.
Regular dates
similar taste and texture
Standard dates that are closer in size to medjool dates
- Best for
- baking, desserts, snacking, cooking
Better size match than deglet dates, similar flavor profile.
Prunes
different taste, similar texture
Dried plums with similar sweetness and chewy texture
- Best for
- baking, desserts, energy bars
Different flavor but similar sweetness and moisture content.
Dried figs
different taste, similar texture
Sweet dried fruit with similar natural sweetness
- Best for
- baking, desserts, energy bars
Different flavor profile but similar sweetness and texture.
How it behaves in this recipe
Deglet dates are an excellent substitute for medjool dates when you need a similar sweet flavor but don't mind a firmer texture. They work particularly well in recipes where the dates are chopped, pureed, or used as a sweetener rather than eaten whole. The key is adjusting the quantity and potentially soaking them to achieve the desired texture.
Tips for substituting Medjool dates
6 tips- Soak deglet dates in warm water for 10-15 minutes before using in baking to soften them
- When substituting by count, use 1.5 deglet dates for every 1 medjool date
- Deglet dates work well in chopped or pureed applications where size doesn't matter
- For whole date applications, consider using regular dates instead of deglet dates
- Deglet dates have a slightly more concentrated sweetness, so you might reduce other sweeteners slightly
- If using deglet dates in energy bars, chop them smaller to distribute flavor more evenly
Notes on Medjool dates
- Use regular dates for a closer size and texture match
- Try prunes for similar sweetness with different flavor
- Consider dried figs for a different but equally sweet option
- Use date paste or date syrup for liquid applications
- Combine deglet dates with a small amount of honey for extra moisture
Questions
5 questionsCan I substitute deglet dates for medjool dates?
Yes, you can substitute deglet dates for medjool dates using a 1:1 ratio by weight or 1.5:1 by count. Deglet dates are smaller and firmer, so you may need to adjust the recipe slightly.
What's the difference between deglet dates and medjool dates?
Medjool dates are larger, softer, and more caramel-like, while deglet dates are smaller, firmer, and slightly less sweet. Both are excellent natural sweeteners but have different textures.
Do I need to soak deglet dates before using them?
It depends on the recipe. For baking or when you need a softer texture, soak deglet dates in warm water for 10-15 minutes. For chopped applications, soaking isn't necessary.
Can I use deglet dates in energy bars?
Yes, deglet dates work well in energy bars. Chop them smaller than you would medjool dates to distribute the flavor and texture more evenly throughout the bars.
Are deglet dates healthier than medjool dates?
Both deglet and medjool dates have similar nutritional profiles. The main differences are size, texture, and sweetness level rather than health benefits.