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Blended dates and water mixed together to form date paste in a clear glass bowl on white surface

How to Make Date Paste 2 Ways

Learn how to make date paste to use as a refined sugar substitute in baking. Easy, delicious and comes together in minutes. Perfect for healthier snacks and desserts.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Serving Size 1 Cup

Equipment

  • 1 saucepan
  • 1 immersion or high-speed blender

Ingredients

Method 1: Stovetop Simmer

  • 1 ½ cups pitted Medjool dates
  • ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons water

Method 2: Hot Water Soak, No Cook Option

  • 1 1/2 cups pitted Medjool dates soft
  • hot water enough to cover dates

Instructions

Method 1: Stovetop Simmer

  • Combine dates and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then lower the heat and simmer for 7–10 minutes until dates are soft.
    Pitted Medjool dates in a large ceramic cast iron saucepan with water on a stovetop
  • Blend using an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth. Add 1–2 tablespoons water if needed to make a creamy paste. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
    date paste in clear glass bowl with gold spoon above holding scoop of the paste

Method 2: Hot Water Soak, No Cook Option

  • Place 1 ½ cups soft Medjool dates in a bowl and cover with hot water.
    pitted dates in bowl with boiling water to softern
  • Soak for 10–15 minutes, or until the dates are soft and easy to press with a spoon or fork.
    Mashing the dates directly in the bowl using a fork until thick and caramel-like for the date cake
  • Drain (reserve a few tablespoons of the soak water) and add the dates to a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth, adding 1–4 tablespoons of the water you put aside as needed for a smooth, silky texture.
    date paste blended
  • Transfer to a jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze up to 3 months.
    date paste in clear glass bowl with gold spoon above holding scoop of the paste

Notes

Tips for Success

  • If the paste is too thick, add water slowly until the desired consistency.
  • Use Medjool dates for natural sweetness and creaminess.
  • Make ahead or make a double batch and freeze extras in silicone ice cube trays for easy use later. 

Macros (per 2 tablespoons)

  • Calories: 47
  • Fat: 0g
  • Carbs: 12g
  • Protein: 0.5g
  • Sugar: 11g