Fig substitutes
Fig substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Dates
Same amount as the fig
Sweet dried fruit with similar texture and sweetness to figs.
The best substitutes for figs are dates, prunes, or apricots, depending on the recipe.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- desserts
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of fig | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Datesdesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Prunesdesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Apricotsdesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Canned figsdesserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Raisinsbaking | 1 part for every 2 parts1 cup fresh = ½ cup raisinsTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Peachesdesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
Dates
similar taste and texture
Sweet dried fruit with similar texture and sweetness to figs.
- Best for
- desserts, baking, snacks, preserves
Remove pit before using. Dates are slightly sweeter than figs.
Prunes
similar taste and texture
Dried plums with similar texture and sweetness to figs.
- Best for
- desserts, baking, snacks, preserves
Prunes are slightly more tart than figs. Soak in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate.
Apricots
similar taste and texture
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to figs.
- Best for
- desserts, baking, salads, preserves
Remove pit before using. Apricots are slightly more tart than figs.
Canned figs
similar taste, different texture
Convenient substitute when fresh figs aren't available. Choose figs in light syrup or water.
- Best for
- desserts, baking, sauces, preserves
Drain well before using. May be softer than fresh figs, so adjust cooking time.
Raisins
enhanced taste, different texture
Dried grapes with concentrated sweetness and chewy texture.
- Best for
- baking, cereals, trail mix, cooking
Soak raisins in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate before using.
Peaches
similar taste and texture
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to figs.
- Best for
- desserts, salads, smoothies, snacks
Choose ripe, soft peaches for best texture. Slightly less sweet than figs.
Questions
4 questionsHow do I know when figs are ripe?
Ripe figs should be plump, soft, and have a sweet aroma. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure and may have small cracks in the skin. The color should be vibrant and consistent.
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?
Yes, dried figs work well as a substitute for fresh figs in many applications. They're more concentrated in flavor and sweetness. Soak them in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate before using.
Why are my figs not sweet?
Figs may not be sweet if they're not fully ripe or if they were picked too early. Choose figs that are plump, soft, and have a sweet aroma. Some varieties are naturally less sweet than others.
Can I eat fig skin?
Yes, fig skin is edible and contains fiber and nutrients. However, some people prefer to remove it for a smoother texture. The skin is thin and tender, so it's usually not necessary to remove it.
Tips for substituting fig
7 tips- Choose figs that are plump, soft, and have a sweet aroma
- Store fresh figs in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 days
- Freeze figs for smoothies or as a frozen snack
- Figs pair well with honey, nuts, cheese, and herbs like thyme and rosemary
- For salads, cut figs into quarters for best presentation
- Figs are best served at room temperature for maximum flavor
- Remove the stem before using figs in recipes