Date

Phoenix dactylifera Fruit

Date Fruit

At a Glance

  • Category Fruit

The Forktionary Angle

"Unpack the ancient superfood: from Middle Eastern culinary traditions to modern healthy eating, dates are more than just sweet."

Definition

A sweet, chewy fruit from the date palm tree, rich in natural sugars, fiber, and nutrients, commonly eaten fresh or dried.

Global Production Usage ~90% consumed as dried fruit
Natural Sugar Content ~60-70%
Shelf Life (dried, room temp) 6-12 months

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Date are:

Sweet Caramel-like Honeyed Chewy Slightly nutty

Chef’s Secret

To soften dates for easier blending or chopping, soak them in hot water or warm tea for 10-15 minutes. This also enhances their natural sweetness and makes pitting easier.

Best Substitutes

Dried Figs

in baking, similar texture
Ratio 1:1

Prunes

slightly different flavor
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

For dried dates, look for plump, shiny, and relatively soft fruits. Avoid those that are hard or shriveled excessively.

Recipes Using Date

Gifts Quick Breads Course Occasion

500 Margarita Bread

This legendary Margarita Bread recipe, a top-ten favorite for many, won Harold Freeman of Phoenix $150 in a newspaper contest years ago – and it should have been $500! Its irresistible blend of savory bread and tangy margarita flavor has created countless lifelong friendships among its devoted fans. Perfect for parties, gifts (mini foil pans are ideal!), or simply satisfying your cravings, this recipe is a must-try. Don't miss the amazing cheese spread – it's the perfect finishing touch! Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.

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Taste Mood Gifts Equipment Breads

1947 Date Nut Bread

Transport yourself back to 1947 with this delectable Date Nut Bread recipe, straight from a treasured Western U.S. regional cookbook! This loaf develops an even more incredible flavor after resting for 24 hours. Imagine the rich, warm spices melding with the sweetness of dates and the satisfying crunch of nuts. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a special treat, this recipe is a true culinary gem.

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Low Protein Healthy 2 Technique Occasion

A British Classic Pan Yan Pickle

Rediscover the joy of Pan Yan Pickle! This no-cook recipe recreates a beloved British classic, lighter and tangier than Branston. Perfect for sandwiches, cheese boards, or even cheese on toast, this vibrant pickle is surprisingly easy to make. Adjust the curry powder to your liking and enjoy a taste of nostalgia with a modern twist. Makes approximately 7 (1/2 lb) jars.

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Fruit 15 Minutes Or Less Sweet Breakfast

A Date With A Banana Smoothie

Start your day the healthy way with this delicious Date & Banana Smoothie! Naturally sweetened and packed with nutrients, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy mornings. Enjoy a creamy, flavorful smoothie in just minutes – the perfect blend of sweet and satisfying.

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Occasion Time To Make Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less

A Date With A Pig

This ridiculously easy appetizer is a crowd-pleaser! With only two ingredients and minimal effort, you'll create irresistible bacon-wrapped dates that disappear in minutes. Perfect for parties, game day, or a romantic night in – get ready for rave reviews!

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60 Minutes Or Less African Seasonal 60 Minutes Or Less

African Pearl Barley Pumpkin Pot

Warm up on chilly days with this spicy African Pearl Barley Pumpkin Pot! This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender pumpkin, chewy pearl barley, and aromatic spices for a truly satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is easily adaptable – add chickpeas, potatoes, and curry spices for an Indian twist! Get ready for a taste sensation.

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Vegan Time To Make Course Easy

Almond Milk

Creamy, dreamy homemade almond milk – a healthier, dairy-free alternative that's surprisingly easy to make! This simple recipe takes just minutes to whip up and results in a delicious, naturally sweet beverage perfect for your morning cereal, smoothies, or enjoyed on its own. Learn how to make your own fresh almond milk at home today!

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Time To Make Breads Cuisine Taste Mood

Amish Friendship Nut Bread On Demand

This beloved recipe uses a time-tested Amish Friendship Starter (see recipe #64793 by Kim D). Perfected over 5 years of baking, this version is a family favorite! Learn how to easily freeze your starter for up to 6 months, ensuring you always have this delicious bread on demand. Discover the secrets to a perfectly moist and flavorful nut bread, passed down through generations. Trust the old ways – this recipe is both delicious and convenient!

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Occasion Easy Nuts Course

Ancient Egyptian Date Candy For 2 People

Journey back to 1600 BC with this authentic Ancient Egyptian date candy recipe! Unearthed from an ostraca, this sweet treat uses only ingredients available in the hot Egyptian climate: dates, figs, pomegranates, and grapes. This surprisingly easy recipe, made even faster with a food processor, lets you recreate a taste of history in just minutes. A delicious blend of sweet dates, warm spices, and crunchy nuts – prepare for a culinary adventure!

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Low In Something Preparation Lunch Low Sodium

Apple Oats Casserole Bars

Warm up your kitchen with these incredibly delicious and nutritious Apple Oats Casserole Bars! Soft, chewy, and bursting with the sweet flavor of apples and cinnamon, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a healthy dessert. Enhance the flavor by using soy milk – trust us, it makes all the difference! Easy to make and even easier to devour, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Time To Make Course Desserts 4 Hours Or Less

Applesauce Date Cake

This wonderfully dense and moist Applesauce Date Cake is a nostalgic recipe, reminiscent of a classic fruitcake but with a delightful twist! Perfect for fall baking, this spiced cake features the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, complemented by the sweetness of dates and applesauce. A simple cream cheese frosting completes this comforting dessert, ideal for sharing with friends and family.

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Nuts Low Sodium Main Ingredient Dietary

Apricot Orange Bundt Cake

This Apricot Orange Bundt Cake has been a family favorite for over 20 years! A moist and delicious bundt cake bursting with the bright flavors of apricot and orange. For an extra special touch, the glaze uses a delightful blend of orange juice and triple sec (or your favorite orange liqueur!). Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert.

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Course 60 Minutes Or Less Desserts Preparation

Australian Sticky Toffee Pudding

Indulge in the rich, decadent delight of our Australian Sticky Toffee Pudding! This classic dessert features a moist, spiced cake soaked in a luscious toffee sauce, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting treat, this recipe is easier to make than you think. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this iconic Aussie dessert!

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Course Time To Make Breakfast Preparation

Banana Bomb

Fuel your morning with this explosive Banana Bomb Smoothie! This high-calorie, delicious blend is packed with potassium and natural sweetness, perfect for a quick and energizing breakfast. Get ready for a taste bud adventure!

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Course Course Preparation Breads

Banana Bread Lightened Up Spelt Vegan

This deliciously moist and healthy vegan spelt banana bread is a lighter take on a classic! Adapted from the popular Vegan a Go Go recipe, this version uses spelt flour for extra protein and a delightful nutty flavor. We've also cleverly reduced the oil and incorporated applesauce to cut back on calories without compromising on taste. Get ready for a guilt-free treat that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack!

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60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Drop Cookies Occasion

Banana Cookies With Dates And Nuts

Transform overripe bananas into heavenly, chewy cookies! This easy recipe combines the sweetness of bananas and dates with a delightful crunch of nuts (optional). The aroma alone is worth baking them – perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a delicious addition to your next bake sale. These cookies store beautifully in the fridge, ensuring you can enjoy them for days.

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Main Ingredient Fruit Preparation Desserts

Berry Frost Pie Raw Food

Indulge in this vibrant and refreshing Berry Frost Pie – a completely raw, vegan, and no-bake dessert! This recipe, adapted for a 9" deep-dish pie plate, delivers a rich, creamy texture bursting with fresh berry flavor. Perfect for a summer treat or any occasion where you crave a healthy and delicious dessert. No oven required!

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Breads 60 Minutes Or Less Dietary Course

Sugar Free Date Nut Muffins

Indulge in these guilt-free Sugar-Free Date Nut Muffins! Naturally sweetened with dates, these muffins are incredibly moist, packed with nutty flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for breakfast, a healthy snack, or dessert, they're a delightful treat that won't derail your healthy eating goals. Get ready to enjoy a muffin that's both delicious and nutritious!

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