February 4th is officially Medjool Date Day, a moment to honor the rich, soft, caramel-like dates that have earned permanent real estate in our kitchens. But while Medjools may be the headliner, this day can be about the entire date family - from buttery and melt-in-your-mouth to chewy and chocolatey.
Think of it as a full-day tasting tour:
From bold savory wraps to fragrant shakes and cozy baked goods, here’s how to cook (and snack) with dates all day long - starting with Medjools and branching out into some truly special varieties worth knowing.
Medjool dates are known for their large size, soft texture, and deep caramel sweetness, which makes them uniquely suited for both sweet and savory dishes. In this chicken shawarma–inspired wrap, Medjool date tahini sauce adds a subtle nutty sweetness that balances warm spices, savory chicken, and tangy accompaniments.
This recipe is a perfect example of why Medjools deserve their own day, they don’t just sweeten dishes, they bring depth, contrast, and global versatility to the plate.
Who says cake can’t be breakfast? This date and walnut cake is rich, comforting, and exactly the kind of cozy start that makes mornings feel a little more special.
Khudri dates are chewy, moderately sweet, with subtle chocolatey undertones, making them especially easy to chop and fold into baked goods. They add natural sweetness and depth to the cake without overpowering it - perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Think of it as breakfast that just happens to feel like dessert.
Photo Credit: JAWNS Cooked
Khalas dates may be smaller in size, but they’re big on flavor. With hints of buttery caramel, a thicker, softer chew, and a richer sweetness, they’re ideal for stuffing and pairing with savory ingredients.
Combined with tangy goat cheese and Calabrian chili, these bites hit that irresistible sweet-savory-spicy balance - perfect for entertaining or an elevated afternoon snack.
Photo Credit: The Delicious Crescent
The recipe creator notes that what sets this shake apart is the distinct caramel flavor of Sukkari dates, which gives it a richness unlike other date shakes. Known for their sweet, caramel-forward taste and melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture, Sukkari dates blend seamlessly, creating a drink that’s naturally sweet with no added sugar.
Finished with rose and pistachio, the shake is creamy, lightly floral, and indulgent in the best way.
Photo Credit: Karam Alnakhil
Ajwa dates are best enjoyed solo.
They’re smaller, denser, and firmer, with layered notes of caramel, honey, and warm cinnamon. Their thicker texture makes them less about blending or stuffing and more about slow, intentional savoring.
Medjool dates may get the spotlight on February 4th, but the beauty of dates lies in their variety. Each type - Medjool, Khalas, Sukkari, Khudri, Ajwa - brings its own flavor, texture, and purpose in the kitchen.
So this Medjool Date Day, cook boldly, snack intentionally, and explore beyond one variety. And if you’re inspired to try something new, Natural Delights’ specialty date varieties are available at Whole Foods, Sprouts, iHerb, and Amazon, making it easier than ever to discover your favorites.
Because when it comes to dates, there’s always more to discover, and every bite is worth celebrating. 🌴✨