Out of Medjool dates, one case
Regular dates substitutes for Medjool dates
4 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Regular dates
Same amount as the Medjool dates
Yes, regular dates are an excellent substitute for medjool dates using a 1:1 ratio. They have similar flavor and sweetness, just slightly smaller size and firmer texture.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
One casethe full Medjool dates card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Medjool dates | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Regular datesbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Deglet datesbaking | Same amountBy weight) or 1½:1 (by countTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Prunesbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Dried figsbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Regular dates
similar taste and texture
Standard dates with similar sweet flavor and chewy texture, just smaller than medjool dates
- Best for
- baking, desserts, energy bars, smoothies, cooking, snacking
Good substitute with similar flavor profile. May need to use 2-3 regular dates for every 1 medjool date in whole applications.
Deglet dates
similar taste, different texture
Smaller, firmer dates with similar sweetness
- Best for
- baking, desserts, energy bars, cooking
Good substitute but smaller size means using more pieces.
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 natural sweetness
- Best for
- baking, desserts, energy bars
Different flavor profile but similar sweetness and texture.
How it behaves in this recipe
Regular dates are the closest substitute to medjool dates, offering similar flavor, sweetness, and texture. They work in virtually any recipe that calls for medjool dates, making them an excellent budget-friendly alternative. The main consideration is size - regular dates are smaller, so you may need to use more pieces in whole date applications.
Tips for substituting Medjool dates
6 tips- Regular dates work well in any recipe that calls for medjool dates
- For whole date applications, use 2-3 regular dates for every 1 medjool date
- Regular dates may need a few extra minutes of soaking time compared to medjool dates
- When making date paste, regular dates work just as well as medjool dates
- Regular dates are often more affordable than medjool dates, making them a budget-friendly choice
- For energy bars, regular dates provide the same binding and sweetness as medjool dates
Notes on Medjool dates
- Use deglet dates for a similar but smaller option
- 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 regular dates with a small amount of honey for extra moisture
Questions
6 questionsCan I substitute regular dates for medjool dates?
Yes, regular dates are an excellent substitute for medjool dates using a 1:1 ratio. They have similar flavor and sweetness, just slightly smaller size and firmer texture.
What's the difference between regular dates and medjool dates?
Medjool dates are larger, softer, and more caramel-like, while regular dates are smaller, firmer, and slightly less sweet. Both have similar flavor profiles and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
Do I need to adjust the quantity when using regular dates?
For chopped or pureed applications, use a 1:1 ratio. For whole date applications, you may need 2-3 regular dates for every 1 medjool date due to size differences.
Are regular dates as sweet as medjool dates?
Regular dates are slightly less sweet than medjool dates, but the difference is minimal. Both provide excellent natural sweetness for baking and cooking.
Can I use regular dates in energy bars?
Yes, regular dates work well in energy bars. They provide the same binding properties and sweetness as medjool dates, often at a lower cost.
Do regular dates need to be soaked like medjool dates?
Regular dates may need slightly longer soaking time than medjool dates due to their firmer texture. Soak in warm water for 10-15 minutes before using in baking.