7 Best Dried Dates: Buying Guide for Naturally Sweet and Nutritious Snacks
Dried dates are a naturally sweet snack that can be enjoyed on their own or added to oatmeal, smoothies, desserts, salads, and savory dishes. They come in different varieties, sizes, textures, and sweetness levels, so choosing the right one depends on how you plan to use them.
Here are 7 of the best dried dates to consider, along with a buying guide to help you choose.
1. Medjool Dates – Best Overall
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Medjool dates are among the most popular varieties because of their large size, soft texture, and rich caramel-like sweetness. They are excellent for snacking and can also be stuffed with nuts, blended into energy balls, or added to smoothies.
Buying guide: Look for plump, soft dates with a naturally glossy appearance. Avoid packages with excessive crystallized sugar or dates that are extremely hard and dry unless you specifically prefer a firmer texture.
2. Elan Organic Pitted Dates – Best for Everyday Use
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Elan Organic Pitted Dates, 6.5 oz, Naturally Sweet Dried Fruits, No added Pits, Sugar, Sulphites, Non-GMO, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, Deglet Noor Dried Dates
Elan Organic Pitted Dates are smaller and firmer than Medjool dates. They have a milder sweetness and slightly chewy texture, making them versatile for everyday cooking and baking.
Buying guide: Choose dates that are evenly colored, reasonably soft, and free from excessive dryness. They are a good choice if you want an affordable multipurpose date.
3. Ajwa Dates – Best for a Rich, Soft Texture
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Ajwa dates are a well-known variety with a dark color, soft texture, and distinctive fruity sweetness. They are commonly enjoyed as a snack and are especially popular among consumers looking for premium date varieties.
Buying guide: Check the package for the date variety and country of origin. Premium Ajwa dates can cost more, so compare size, freshness, packaging, and price before buying.
4. Sunsweet Pitted Dates, Rich and Sweet – Best for Extra Sweetness
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Sunsweet Pitted Dates, Rich and Sweet are known for their naturally sweet flavor and tender texture. They can have a soft, almost melt-in-your-mouth quality, making them appealing to people who prefer very sweet dates.
Buying guide: If you like very sweet snacks, Sukkari is worth trying. Look for dates that are plump and fresh rather than excessively dry.
5. Sun-Maid Deglet Noor Pitted Dried Dates
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Sun-Maid Deglet Noor Pitted Dried Dates – (4 Pack) 8 oz Resealable Bag
Pitted Deglet Noor Dates Dried Fruit Snack for Lunches, Snacks, and Natural Sweeteners
Barhi dates have a distinctive honey-like sweetness. When dried, they become chewier and develop a deeper flavor compared with their fresh form.
Buying guide: Because Barhi dates can vary considerably in texture depending on how they are processed, check the product description carefully to determine whether you are buying fresh, semi-dried, or fully dried dates.
6. Organic Deglet Noor Pitted Dates by Terra Delyssa
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Organic Deglet Noor Pitted Dates are generally smaller and firmer than soft varieties such as Medjool. Their mild sweetness and chewy texture make them suitable for snacking, baking, and chopping into cereals or salads.
Buying guide: Organic Deglet Noor Pitted Dates if you prefer dates that are less soft and sticky. Check that the package is well sealed and that the dates don’t appear excessively dry.
7. Halawi Dates – Best for a Soft, Caramel-Like Taste
Halawi dates are known for their soft texture and sweet, caramel-like flavor. They are a versatile option for eating directly or incorporating into recipes.
Buying guide: Look for plump dates with a soft texture and no signs of mold or unusual fermentation. If buying online, check customer reviews for comments about freshness and texture.
Dried Dates Buying Guide: What to Look For
Before buying dried dates, consider these important factors:
Variety: Different varieties have different levels of sweetness, softness, and flavor. Medjool is a good starting point if you’re unsure which variety to try.
Texture: Soft dates are ideal for snacking and blending, while firmer varieties work well for chopping, baking, and cooking.
Ingredients: Check the ingredient label. Ideally, dates should be the primary or only ingredient. Some products may contain added sugar, preservatives, oils, or other ingredients.
Pits: Decide whether you want pitted or whole dates. Pitted dates are more convenient for cooking and snacking, while whole dates may retain their traditional presentation.
Freshness: Avoid packages containing dates with an unusual smell, excessive moisture, or visible mold. Natural sugar crystals on dates are not necessarily a sign of spoilage.
Packaging: Choose sealed packaging that protects the dates from excessive moisture and contamination. Resealable bags can be especially convenient if you don’t eat the entire package at once.
Size and price: Larger premium varieties often cost more. Compare the price per ounce or per 100 grams rather than comparing package prices alone.
Which Dried Date Is Best for You?
If you want the best overall option, Medjool dates are an excellent choice because of their large size, soft texture, and rich sweetness.
For everyday cooking and baking, Deglet Noor is a practical option. If you prefer very sweet dates, Sukkari may be worth trying, while Zahidi is a better choice if you prefer a firmer, chewier texture.
Ultimately, the best dried date depends on your preferred sweetness, texture, intended use, and budget.
