If you’re looking for a sweetener that’s healthy and super easy to make, date paste is your new best friend! All you need are some dates, a bit of water, and a blender.

I love using it in my smoothies, oatmeal, and even baked goods. It’s sweet, natural, and way better for you than refined sugar. You can whip it up in just a few minutes! I always keep a jar in my fridge—it’s like my secret weapon for healthy snacks.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find so many uses for it!

Homemade Date Paste

Date paste is an all-natural, healthy sweetener that’s incredibly easy to make. With just dates, water, and a blender, you can whip up a versatile sweetener in minutes. Use it in smoothies, oatmeal, baked goods, or as a spread. It’s a healthier alternative to refined sugar and adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to your favorite recipes. Plus, it stores well, making it a perfect go-to sweetener for everyday use.

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Prep Time 10

Course Condiment/Sweetener

Cuisine Global, Middle Eastern

Servings 13 servings

Calories 45 kcal

Equipment

1 Blender or food processor
1 Measuring cup
1 Bowl for soaking dates
1 Airtight container for storage

Ingredients

2 cups Medjool dates pitted
1 cup Water (adjust for consistency)
1 tsp Vanilla Extract (for added flavor)

Instructions

Prepare the dates:
Pit the Medjool dates if they are not already pitted. Place them in a bowl and cover with warm water. Let them soak for 10 minutes to soften.
Blend the dates:
Drain the soaking water, but reserve it. Place the softened dates in a blender or food processor.
Add water:
Start with ½ cup of the reserved soaking water and blend. Gradually add more water as needed to achieve your desired paste consistency. You can make it thicker for spreading or thinner for mixing into recipes.
Optional flavoring:
If using, add the vanilla extract to the mixture and blend until smooth.
Store:
Transfer the date paste into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer shelf life.

Video

Notes

If the paste is too thick, slowly add water, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thin, blend in a few more dates.
Add cinnamon or a pinch of salt for a flavor twist.
Use date paste as a 1:1 substitute for honey, maple syrup, or agave in many recipes.

Keyword Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Healthy Snacks, Natural Sweetener, Sweetener, Vegan

How to Store the Paste

Date paste can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks, but you can also freeze it for long-term use. I like to freeze mine in small portions—either in ice cube trays or in tablespoon-sized dollops on a baking sheet.

Once frozen, transfer the portions to a freezer-safe container or bag, and you’ll have ready-to-go date paste whenever you need it!

When you want to use it, just thaw a portion in the fridge or microwave for a few seconds. It’s super convenient and saves time when you’re in the middle of cooking or baking.

The Bottom Line

That’s it! You’ve got your homemade date paste ready to go. It’s a simple, wholesome sweetener that you can feel good about using in just about anything.

Whether you’re spreading it on toast, adding it to recipes, or sneaking a spoonful straight from the jar (no judgment here!), you’ll love how versatile and delicious it is. Give it a try and let me know what creative ways you find to use it!

Homemade Date Paste: A Healthy, Natural Fruit Sweetener