What's the Best Substitute for Prunes?
Whether you're out of Prunes or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Dried plums with concentrated sweetness and chewy texture, commonly used in baking, preserves, and as a natural sweetener In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for prunes are dates, figs, or raisins, depending on the recipe.
Best Substitutes for Prunes
Dates
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- snacks
- preserves
Description
Sweet dried fruit with similar texture and sweetness to prunes.
Remove pit before using. Dates are slightly sweeter than prunes.
Figs
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- snacks
- preserves
Description
Sweet dried fruit with similar texture and sweetness to prunes.
Figs are slightly more tart than prunes. Soak in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate.
Raisins
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- cereals
- trail mix
- cooking
Description
Dried grapes with concentrated sweetness and chewy texture.
Soak raisins in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate before using.
Dried Apricots
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- snacks
- preserves
Description
Dried stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to prunes.
Soak dried apricots in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate before using.
Dried Cherries
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- snacks
- preserves
Description
Dried stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to prunes.
Dried cherries are slightly more tart than prunes. Soak in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate.
Canned Prunes
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- sauces
- preserves
Description
Convenient substitute when dried prunes aren't available. Choose prunes in light syrup or water.
Drain well before using. May be softer than dried prunes, so adjust cooking time.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Prunes, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Soak dried prunes in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate before using
Store dried prunes in an airtight container in a cool, dry place
Freeze prunes for smoothies or as a frozen snack
Prunes pair well with nuts, chocolate, vanilla, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg
For baking, chop prunes into smaller pieces for better distribution
Prunes are best served at room temperature for maximum flavor
Remove pits before using prunes in recipes
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications