Dates (fresh) for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve dates (fresh) to your baby, by age.

Rich in Natural SugarsFiber-RichPotassium SourceGut-FriendlyAntioxidant-Rich

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Very Low (1/5)

Choking Hazard

High (4/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Dates (fresh) to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

For babies 6-9 months, fresh dates should be prepared with particular care, as they are sticky, chewy, and can pose a choking risk. Always remove the pit and chop the date flesh very finely or mash it thoroughly until smooth. Mixing mashed date into oatmeal, yogurt, or porridge is a safe way to introduce its sweetness. If offering as a finger food, create a very thin, smooth paste and spread it onto a spoon or thin toast strip. Avoid offering whole or chopped pieces at this age.

Serving Instructions

At 6-9 months, offer a small portion of mashed or pureed fresh dates, about a teaspoon (5 g/0.18 oz) mixed into iron-rich or protein foods like oatmeal, yogurt, or lentil puree. Dates are naturally sweet and can enhance meals without added sugar. Pairing with a source of fat or protein helps sustain energy and balances sweetness. Avoid serving more than 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 g/0.18-0.35 oz) per meal to prevent overconsumption of sugar and to protect developing teeth.

How to Serve Dates (fresh) to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

For 9-18 months, continue to remove the pit and slice the fresh date into very thin strips or finely dice. You may also mash the date for mixing into cereal, yogurt, or pancakes. At this stage, dates may be served as a spread on toast, or as part of soft baked goods, but always supervise closely. Avoid offering whole dates as their sticky texture can still pose a choking hazard. For independent eating, small, soft bites are the safest.

Serving Instructions

At 9-18 months, serve 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 g/0.18-0.35 oz) of finely chopped, mashed, or thinly sliced fresh dates per meal. Dates pair well with nut butters, soft cheeses, or whole grain toast to provide variety, energy, and nutrition. At this stage, continue pairing dates with iron-rich foods where possible. Offer as part of a meal alongside fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and proteins for balance. Avoid serving large pieces or more than 2 teaspoons (10 g) at a time.

How to Serve Dates (fresh) to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

After 18 months, you may serve fresh dates (always pitted) in larger pieces, such as thin half slices or small chunks, if your child has shown reliable chewing skills. Continue to avoid whole dates for now, as they can still stick in the throat. Dates can be chopped into oatmeal, yogurt, or spread onto sandwiches. Remain vigilant as the sticky consistency can still pose a risk if large pieces are swallowed whole. Encourage slow chewing and model taking small bites.

Serving Instructions

From 18 months, serve up to 2 teaspoons (10 g/0.35 oz) of chopped or sliced fresh dates per meal, as part of a balanced plate. Dates make a great addition to oatmeal, yogurt, sandwiches, or even homemade snack balls. At this age, children may manage larger pieces if they reliably chew well, but supervise closely. Always pair with protein or fat sources to curb sugar high and maintain energy. Continue to promote moderation to protect developing teeth.