Deglet Dates Substitute for Medjool Dates - Complete Guide
Learn how to substitute deglet dates for medjool dates in recipes. Get proper ratios, cooking tips, and when to use this swap.
Quick Answer
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.
Best Substitutes
Deglet Dates
1:1 (by weight) or 1.5:1 (by count)Smaller, firmer dates with similar sweet flavor but different texture
Best for:
Use more pieces since deglet dates are smaller. Soak in warm water for 10 minutes to soften if needed for baking.
Regular Dates
1:1Standard dates that are closer in size to medjool dates
Best for:
Better size match than deglet dates, similar flavor profile
Prunes
1:1Dried plums with similar sweetness and chewy texture
Best for:
Different flavor but similar sweetness and moisture content
Dried Figs
1:1Sweet dried fruit with similar natural sweetness
Best for:
Different flavor profile but similar sweetness and texture
Cooking 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Can 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.
Summary
Learn how to substitute deglet dates for medjool dates in recipes. Get proper ratios, cooking tips, and when this swap works best for baking and cooking.