Quick answer: To make date paste, soak pitted dates in hot water for 10 minutes, then blend with a little of the soaking water until smooth. It takes about 15 minutes and keeps in the fridge for one to two weeks.
Last updated: 14 November 2026
Ingredients (makes about 1 cup)
- 175 g (1 cup) pitted dates, Medjool or Sukkari work well
- 120 ml (½ cup) hot water
Method
- Cover the dates with hot water and soak for 10 minutes.
- Drain, keeping the soaking water.
- Blend the dates, adding the soaking water 1 tablespoon at a time, until smooth and thick.
- Scrape into a clean jar.
How to use date paste
- As a sweetener in baking in place of some of the sugar. Because it adds moisture, you may need to reduce other liquids slightly.
- Spread on toast with nut butter, or stir into porridge and yoghurt.
- In date bars, brownies and muffins.
Storage
Keep in a clean airtight jar in the fridge for 1 to 2 weeks, or freeze in small portions. For a thinner pourable sweetener, make date syrup. Soft Medjool dates blend easiest. See more date recipes.
Frequently asked questions
What is date paste?
Dates blended with water into a smooth, thick spread used as a natural sweetener.
Can I replace sugar with date paste?
Often yes, in part. Start by replacing some of the sugar and adjust the liquid in the recipe.
How long does date paste last?
1 to 2 weeks in the fridge, longer in the freezer.
