A Guide to Date Varieties and How to Cook with Them

Dates, also referred to as “dessert gold,” have a real burst of flavour, with a taste that’s similar to maple syrup, honey or molasses. They’re versatile and there are many ways to enjoy them. Here are a few recipes, as well as different varieties to try.

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Medjool dates
Known as the “queen of dates,” this variety is plump and fleshy, with a taste reminiscent of maple syrup. They’re originally from Morocco and are easy to find in grocery stores.
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Marzafati dates
Also referred to as Bam dates, in reference to its city of origin in Iran, this variety has a round shape, is tender and has a molasses-like aroma.
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Sukari dates
Originally from Saudi Arabia, this variety is the most popular in the Middle East. It’s crunchy and has honey-like notes when dried.
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Deglet Nour dates
Grown in Algeria, this variety has a small pit and a very soft texture. It’s also said to have the most delicate taste.
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Khodari dates
This variety is mainly grown in Saudi Arabia. It has a firm texture and a mild flavour.

1. Baked Feta with Roasted Shallots and Dates

Let your guests marvel at this Greek-inspired appetizer with a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavours. Slices of creamy feta cheese are garnished with oven-roasted shallots and plump dates. A touch of aniseed-flavoured liqueur enhances the dish, while a pistachio-mint duo adds a fresh, nutty finish. A panful to share—with almost no dishes to wash!

Appetizers

Baked Feta with Roasted Shallots and Dates

2. Date Cake with Almond Icing

Lovers of date desserts, there’s no need for a trip to the pastry shop! This homemade treat will more than satisfy your sweet tooth. A moist cake made with rich date purée is generously topped with a luscious almond butter, date molasses and maple syrup icing. Finish it off with a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds. Savour every bite of this dreamy cake with its one-of-a-kind icing.

Cakes

Date Cake with Almond Icing

3. Double Chocolate Date Cookies (No Sugar Added)

Dates are naturally sweet and packed with flavour. Need proof? This cookie recipe contains no added sugar—just the natural sweetness of dates. They also keep the dough moist, making these cookies irresistibly tender. A blend of flour, cocoa powder and cinnamon creates a rich base, finished with a decadent dark chocolate coating. Beware—these cookies might disappear in a day!

Cookies

Double Chocolate Date Cookies (No Sugar Added)

Date molasses

Date molasses is a concentrate of flavours, with the same delicious taste as the fruit and great to use as a spread. Dark brown in colour, it’s made by reducing date extracts into syrup.