I hate to admit how many times I was baking cookies or scones that call for dried currants only to realize I was all out! And anyone who knows me knows I don’t make last minute trips to the grocery store just for a single ingredient.
And that’s why I’ve spent so much time learning the best alternatives and replacements for common ingredients. And today we will go over the best replacements for dried currants.
What are the best dried currant substitutes?
The best substitutes for dried currants are dried plums, dried dates, raisins, cranberries, jujube, dried blueberries, dried apricots, and dried cherries.
Really, any dried fruit or berry can work in a pinch, but the above are my personal favorites for handling almost any recipe that calls for currants. Read on for how to use each dried currant alternative so you can make a flavor packed dessert.
What Are Dried Currants?
Dried currants are berries that have been dried. They make an amazing addition to almost any cookie, muffin, cobbler, cake or salad recipe. Dried currants are just one of many different fruits and berries that can be dried so they keep for a long time.
Favorite Desserts That Use Dried Currants
Dried currants are such a unique ingredient that they are used in many different types of desserts. Some of my favorite used for them include cookies, scones, cakes, and quiches.
No matter what type of recipe you are working with, the following replacements will work wonderfully.
Use equal parts substitute as dried currants.
Best Alternatives For Dried Currants
I’ve found depending on what region you live in will dictate what will be on the shelf at the grocery store. I’ve focused on some of the most delicious and widely available ingredient replacements out there.
But if you are having trouble finding these substitutes you can order them online or use any available dried berry or fruit.
Prunes
Dried plums work wonderfully as a dried currant replacement. They are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, they work in almost any recipe, they can be used as a low-carb substitute, and they are widely available.
Dried Dates
Dried dates make a great substitute for dried currants. They are also incredibly sweet and add a special flavor to most recipes. And if you choose Medjool varieties, then you will get an extra boost of fiber and protein.
Raisins
Raisins are another popular alternative to dried currants. They make cookies, cakes, and muffins taste amazing! And because they are so common, they are easy to come by whether you have a specialty grocery near by or not.
Cranberries
Craisins (dried cranberries) are an awesome currant substitute. They are a great source of flavor, and since they are dried, they are available year round. I find cranberries to be one of the best dried currant alternative for salads or baked goods.
Jujube
While jujube are not an ingredient that I have personally used often (they are rarely stocked at my local grocery store), they work well as dried currant alternatives. They are packed with flavor and nutrients that make them a great choice if they are available in your area.
Dried Blueberries
Dried blueberries are also a great alternative to currants. They work in any recipe, and because of their gentle sweetness, they really make baked goods taste amazing. I use a lot of blueberries in my baking and always jump at the chance to use them.
Dried Apricots
Dried apricots work great as alternative for dried currants. They have a sweet flavor and make baked goods taste amazing. I find them to be one of the best dried currant reaplacements for cakes and muffins toppings.
Dried Cherries
Dried cherries are another fantastic dried currant replacement. They pack a lot of flavor, so just a few will go far in any recipe. Because of their softer texture, they work best in cookies, muffins, scones, and cakes.
Other dried fruit and berries that also make great alternative to dried currants are peaches, pears, plums and apples.
Bottom Line
Dried currants make a great addition to your favorite recipes. And luckily, there are lots of alternatives that will work just as well!
Even though they are pricey, I keep a bag of dried currants in my pantry at all times just in case I need them. They really make baking and cooking so much more fun.
If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below!