We all know that figs add a special twist to our recipes. Yet, there are days we run out and can’t find them anywhere. That’s where we step in with some great alternatives.
Think about dates or maybe prunes. They have a similar sweetness and texture. Or try apricots for a bit of tang. We’ve experimented with them and loved the results. You probably already have these at home. Simple swaps can save the day and keep our dishes tasty.
We’re here to share these quick fixes and make life easier. Let’s get started!

4 Easy Substitutes for Figs
As much as we love figs, they can be hard to find or quite expensive at times. But don’t fret, because there are plenty of other fruits that can add the same flavor and texture to your dishes.
1 – Apricots
First off, apricots can replace figs beautifully. They bring a slightly tangy, sweet taste that jazzes up your dishes. We love using them in salads and desserts. Swap figs with apricots at a 1:1 ratio, they blend well without overpowering the flavors.
We’ve found that dried apricots work best. Just chop them up to mimic the texture of figs. You can learn more about using dried apricots as a fig substitute in this apricot guide.
Adding apricots also gives your recipes a fresh twist. Trust us, it’s a game changer!
2 – Prunes
Prunes are a fantastic alternative to figs. They have a deep sweetness and a rich, chewy texture. This makes them perfect for both savory and sweet recipes. We use them a lot in jams and stews.
You can use prunes in a 1:1 ratio to figs, ensuring your recipes hit the right mark. Prunes are versatile and blend well without overpowering other flavors.
One time, we tried prunes in a dessert and were amazed by the depth they brought. For more ideas, check out prune substitutes.
3 – Dates
Dates are a great substitute for figs. They bring a rich, caramel-like sweetness and a chewy texture. Use them in a 1:1 ratio. We find dates work wonderfully in both savory and sweet dishes.
Our go-to is adding chopped dates to salads and desserts. They blend effortlessly and add a dash of natural sweetness. One time we tossed dates in a spinach salad with goat cheese, and it was a hit.
For more options with dates, check out this date substitutes guide.
4 – Sultanas
Sultanas are a solid replacement for figs. They have a mild sweetness and a pleasantly chewy texture. Perfect for both sweet and savory dishes.
Swap figs with sultanas at a 1:1 ratio. Our favorite use is in baking or granola.
Their light flavor doesn’t overwhelm other ingredients. We tossed sultanas into a fruit cake once, and it was an instant hit.
They mix well with nuts and seeds too. Sultanas bring a subtle, satisfying bite.
They’re also great in salads, adding a slight sweet note. Easy to use, easy to love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, apricots are a great choice, offering a slightly tangier flavor and a softer texture than figs.
Yes, prunes can work well in jams, as they provide a similar sweetness and texture when blended.
Dates offer a rich, caramel-like sweetness and a chewy texture that makes them a suitable replacement for figs in many desserts.
Yes, sultanas are a great alternative, providing sweetness and a similar texture to figs, although they lack the same depth of flavor.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.