Substitute Dried Dates for Medjool Dates - Complete Guide
Learn how to substitute dried dates for medjool dates in recipes. Get proper ratios, soaking tips, and when this dried fruit swap works best.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can substitute dried dates for medjool dates using a 1:1 ratio by weight. Soak dried dates in warm water for 15-20 minutes first to soften them and restore moisture.
Best Substitutes
Dried Dates (soaked)
1:1 (by weight)Dried dates that have been soaked to restore moisture and soften texture
Best for:
Soak in warm water for 15-20 minutes to soften. Drain well before using. May need to use more pieces due to smaller size.
Dried Dates (unsoaked)
1:1 (by weight)Dried dates used directly without soaking, firmer texture
Best for:
Firmer texture than medjool dates. Works well in recipes where you want some chewiness.
Dried Date Paste
1:1 (by volume)Pureed dried dates that provide similar sweetness and binding properties
Best for:
Best for recipes where you want the exact flavor of dates with good binding properties.
Dried Dates + Extra Liquid
1:1 (by weight) + 2-3 tablespoons liquidDried dates with added liquid to compensate for lower moisture content
Best for:
Add extra liquid (water, milk, or fruit juice) to compensate for lower moisture than fresh medjool dates.
Cooking Tips
- 💡Always soak dried dates in warm water for 15-20 minutes before using to restore moisture and soften texture
- 💡Drain soaked dates well to prevent adding too much liquid to your recipe
- 💡For energy bars, dried date paste provides the best binding properties and texture
- 💡When using unsoaked dried dates, chop them smaller to distribute flavor and texture more evenly
- 💡Dried dates may be smaller than medjool dates, so you may need to use more pieces in whole date applications
- 💡For baking, soaked dried dates work best as they provide similar moisture content to medjool dates
- 💡If using dried dates in smoothies, soak them first for easier blending and smoother texture
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute dried dates for medjool dates?
Yes, you can substitute dried dates for medjool dates using a 1:1 ratio by weight. Soak dried dates in warm water for 15-20 minutes first to soften them and restore moisture.
What's the difference between dried dates and medjool dates?
Medjool dates are fresh and soft, while dried dates are dehydrated and firmer. Dried dates need to be soaked to restore moisture and soften texture for best results.
Do I need to soak dried dates before using them?
Yes, soaking dried dates in warm water for 15-20 minutes is recommended to restore moisture and soften texture. This makes them more similar to fresh medjool dates.
Can I use dried dates without soaking them?
You can use dried dates without soaking, but they will have a firmer texture. This works well in recipes where you want some chewiness, like energy bars or cookies.
Do dried dates work in energy bars?
Yes, dried dates work well in energy bars. For best results, use dried date paste or soak the dates first to ensure good binding properties and texture.
Are dried dates as sweet as medjool dates?
Dried dates have similar sweetness to medjool dates, but the flavor may be slightly more concentrated due to the dehydration process. Both provide excellent natural sweetness.
Summary
Learn how to substitute dried dates for medjool dates in recipes. Get proper ratios, soaking tips, and when this dried fruit swap works best for baking and cooking.