Sukkari Dates vs. Medjool – Which One is Right for You?

If you’ve ever browsed the date section at a market, you’ve probably faced the same dilemma—which type of date is the best? With so many varieties, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Medjool dates are often called the "king of dates," but Sukkari dates are gaining popularity for their incredible sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

So, how do you choose between Sukkari and Medjool dates? Is one better for snacking? Which one is healthier? And what about taste—is softer always better?

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences, health benefits, and taste profiles of Sukkari and Medjool dates so you can make the right choice. Whether you’re looking for a daily snack, a natural sweetener, or a nutritious energy boost, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Sukkari Dates vs. Medjool: Quick Comparison

Choosing between Sukkari and Medjool dates comes down to a few key factors—taste, texture, size, and nutritional value. To make it easier, here’s a side-by-side comparison:

Feature	Sukkari Dates	Medjool Dates
Appearance	Small to medium, golden-brown	Large, dark brown to reddish
Texture	Extremely soft, melts in the mouth	Chewy, slightly fibrous
Taste	Very sweet, honey-like	Rich, caramel-like sweetness
Origin	Mostly Saudi Arabia	Morocco, Israel, California
Common Uses	Snacking, coffee pairing, desserts	Snacking, smoothies, baking, energy bars
Nutritional Value	Lower in fiber, slightly lower in calories	Higher in fiber, more carbohydrates

Key Takeaways:

• If you love a super-soft texture and honey-like sweetness, Sukkari is your best bet.

• If you prefer chewy dates with a deep caramel flavor, Medjool is the way to go.

• Medjool dates have more fiber, making them a better choice for digestion and sustained energy.

• Sukkari dates are lower in calories, making them ideal for those watching their intake.

Both are delicious and nutritious, but your choice depends on your texture and flavor preference.

What Are Sukkari Dates?

Sukkari dates are often called the "queen of dates" for their incredible softness and natural sweetness. The name Sukkari comes from the Arabic word for "sugar," and once you taste them, you'll understand why. These dates are golden-brown, ultra-soft, and have a honey-like flavor that melts in your mouth.

Origin & Cultivation

• Grown primarily in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the Al-Qassim region.

• Harvested at different ripeness stages, with fresh Sukkari being the softest and sweetest.

• Unlike some date varieties, Sukkari does not require soaking or processing to enhance sweetness—it’s naturally delicious.

Taste & Texture

• Extremely soft and delicate—some describe it as eating caramelized butter.

• Less fibrous than Medjool dates, making them easier to chew.

• Very sweet, with hints of honey and toffee.

Best Uses for Sukkari Dates

Sukkari dates are perfect for those who enjoy a naturally sweet and soft fruit. They make a delicious snack straight out of the box, requiring no soaking or additional preparation. In the Middle East, they are often paired with coffee or tea, balancing out the bitterness with their rich sweetness.

Their soft texture also makes them ideal for blending into smoothies, adding natural sweetness to desserts, or enjoying as an energy-boosting treat before workouts. Whether eaten alone or incorporated into recipes, Sukkari dates are a fantastic choice for those who love indulgent, honey-like flavors.

What Are Medjool Dates?

Medjool dates are often referred to as the "king of dates" due to their large size, rich caramel-like flavor, and chewy texture. Unlike Sukkari dates, which are ultra-soft, Medjool dates have a firm bite with a slight fibrous quality, making them more substantial and satisfying for those who enjoy a chewy texture.

Origin & Cultivation

• Native to Morocco but now widely grown in Israel, California, and Jordan.

• One of the most popular date varieties globally, prized for its natural sweetness and versatility.

• Harvested at different ripeness stages, with fresh Medjool dates being softer and dried ones more chewy.

Taste & Texture

• Rich and caramel-like with subtle molasses undertones.

• Chewy and fibrous, giving it a more substantial bite.

• Less sweet than Sukkari but still naturally high in sugar, making them a great energy source.

Best Uses for Medjool Dates

Medjool dates are incredibly versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. They’re commonly eaten as a healthy snack on their own, but their firm texture makes them perfect for stuffing with nuts, cheese, or nut butter.

Many people use Medjool dates as a natural sweetener in smoothies, homemade energy bars, and desserts since they blend well without refined sugar. Because of their chewiness, they also hold up well in baking and cooking, making them a great ingredient in everything from date paste to salad dressings.

Check out our full guide on how to eat dates.

Sukkari Dates vs. Medjool Taste – Which One Is Better?

Sukkari dates have a honey-like sweetness and ultra-soft texture, making them feel like a natural caramel. They’re light, buttery, and melt in your mouth with no bitterness.

Medjool dates, in contrast, offer a richer, more complex flavor with caramel and molasses notes. They are chewy and slightly fibrous, giving them a more substantial bite.

If you prefer a soft, candy-like texture, Sukkari is the better choice. For those who enjoy a deeper, caramel flavor with a chewier bite, Medjool is ideal. It all comes down to personal preference!

Sukkari Dates vs. Medjool Benefits – Which Is More Nutritious?

Both Sukkari and Medjool dates are packed with nutrients, but they differ slightly in their health benefits. Here’s how they compare:

Nutrient/Benefit	Sukkari Dates	Medjool Dates
Calories	Lower per serving	Higher due to size
Sugar Content	Naturally very sweet	Also high in sugar but less intense
Fiber	Lower fiber, easier to digest	Higher fiber, supports digestion
Texture & Impact on Digestion	Soft, gentle on the stomach	Chewy, takes longer to break down
Energy Boost	Quick energy release	Sustained energy due to fiber
Best For	Light snacking, pairing with tea	Workout fuel, meal replacement, baking

Which One Is Healthier?

Both are nutrient-dense and great natural sweeteners. If you prefer a lighter, easily digestible snack, Sukkari is ideal. If you're looking for longer-lasting energy and fiber benefits, Medjool is the better choice.

Sukkari Dates vs. Medjool vs. Ajwa – How Do They Compare?

Sukkari and Medjool dates are known for their sweetness and soft texture, while Ajwa dates stand out for their unique flavor and religious significance. Here’s how they compare:

Feature	Sukkari Dates	Medjool Dates	Ajwa Dates
Appearance	Golden-brown, small to medium	Large, dark brown	Small, dark black
Texture	Extremely soft, melts in the mouth	Chewy, fibrous	Firm, slightly dry
Taste	Very sweet, honey-like	Rich, caramel-like	Mildly sweet, slightly fruity
Nutritional Focus	Quick energy, easy digestion	High fiber, sustained energy	Antioxidants, medicinal properties
Best For	Light snacking, coffee pairing	Snacking, smoothies, baking	Daily health benefits, religious consumption

Ajwa dates are less sweet than both Sukkari and Medjool, but they are prized for their high antioxidant content and historical significance in Islamic tradition.

Which One Should You Choose? (Sukkari vs. Medjool)

Choosing between Sukkari and Medjool depends on your taste preference and how you plan to use them.

• Choose Sukkari if you love a soft, honey-like sweetness and want an easy-to-digest snack.

• Choose Medjool if you prefer a chewy, rich caramel flavor and need more fiber and sustained energy.

• Choose Ajwa if you're looking for a balanced sweetness with added health benefits.

Both Sukkari and Medjool are excellent choices—it just depends on your preference!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Medjool and Sukkari dates?

Medjool dates are larger, darker, and have a chewy texture with a caramel-like taste. Sukkari dates are smaller, golden-brown, and much softer with a honey-like sweetness.

What dates are better than Medjool dates?

It depends on personal preference! If you prefer a softer, melt-in-the-mouth texture, Sukkari might be better. If you enjoy chewy, rich-flavored dates, Medjool is a great choice. Ajwa dates are preferred for religious significance and potential health benefits.

Are Sukkari dates good?

Yes! Sukkari dates are loved for their soft texture, honey-like sweetness, and nutritional benefits. They’re an excellent choice for a natural energy boost.

What is the difference between Medjool and Deglet Noor dates?

Medjool dates are larger, softer, and sweeter, often called "the king of dates." Deglet Noor dates are smaller, firmer, and less sweet, making them ideal for cooking and baking.

Final Thoughts

Sukkari and Medjool dates are both delicious, nutritious, and versatile, but they offer different experiences. Sukkari is softer and sweeter, while Medjool is chewier and richer in flavor.

Whether you're enjoying them as a quick snack, pairing them with coffee, or using them in recipes, both types have something unique to offer.