Have you ever had a persimmon? If not, you’re missing out on a unique and delicious fruit.
Native to Asia, persimmons are related to the tomato and have a sweet, slightly tangy flavor.
They can be eaten fresh or used in baking, and their nutritional value makes them a popular choice for health-conscious eaters.
However, persimmons can be difficult to find in stores, and they can be pricey when available.
Here are five options to try if you’re looking for a persimmon substitute.
What is Persimmon?

Native to Eastern Asia, persimmon is a sweet, flavorful fruit often eaten fresh or used in baking.
No matter how you enjoy them, persimmons are a delicious way to add some sweetness to your day.
There are two main types of persimmons – astringent and non-astringent.
Astringent persimmons contain tannins, which give the fruit a tart, sour flavor.
Non-astringent persimmons are much sweeter and do not contain tannins.
The most common type of persimmon in the United States is the astringent Hachiya, which is typically used in baking.
Persimmons can also be dried and used as a sweet, chewy treat.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Persimmon
For anyone who hasn’t had the pleasure of eating a persimmon, they are a small, round fruit that is sweet and often used in desserts.
While they can be eaten fresh, they are also used to make jams, jellies, and pies.
If you’re looking for a persimmon substitute for any reason, here are 5 of the best options:
1 – Fuyus

Fuyus are a non-astringent persimmon that can be eaten while still firm, much like an apple.
Because of this, they are sometimes called “apples of the orient.
” They originated in Asia but are now grown in many parts of the world, including the United States.
Fuyus are generally smaller and squatting than other varieties of persimmon, with a deep red or orange color.
The skin is edible but not as smooth as other types of persimmons.
The flesh is sweet and juicy, with a flavor similar to apricots or peaches.
Fuyus can be used instead of other types of persimmons in recipes, or they can be eaten fresh as a snack.
When shopping for fuyus, look for slightly soft fruits to the touch and free from blemishes.
Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them.
Whether using them in a recipe or eating them fresh, fuyus are a delicious and easy-to-eat fruit that makes a great substitute for other types of persimmons.
2 – Sharon Fruit

Sharon fruit is a type of persimmon that is native to Israel.
The fruit is round and has a reddish-orange color.
It is often used as a substitute for persimmons in recipes.
Sharon fruit has a sweet taste with hints of almond and cinnamon.
The fruit’s flesh is soft and can be used in baked goods, soups, and stews.
Sharon fruit can also be eaten fresh or dried.
The fruit is a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C.
It also contains antioxidants that can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Sharon fruit is an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy, delicious, and versatile fruit.
3 – Quince

Quince is a good option if you’re looking for a fruit to substitute for persimmons.
Though it’s not as sweet as a persimmon, quince has a similar texture and can be used in many of the same recipes.
Quince is also high in fiber and Vitamin C, making it a healthy addition to your diet.
When selecting quince, look for fruit that is hard and pale yellow.
Avoid fruit that is soft or has brown spots, as this indicates that the quince is overripe.
To prepare quince, first, remove the stem and blossom end.
Then, quince can be eaten raw, cooked, or made into jams and jellies.
So next time you’re looking for a persimmon substitute, reach for some quince.
4 – Plums

Plums are fruit that can be eaten fresh, dried, or cooked.
Plums are a good source of vitamins C and K.
They also contain fiber, copper, and other minerals.
A common variety of plums is the prune plum, used to make prunes.
The skin of a prune plum is deep blue or purple, and the flesh is dark yellow or reddish.
Plums can be used as a substitute for persimmons in recipes.
When substituting plums for persimmons, use one cup of chopped plums for every cup of chopped persimmons called for in the recipe.
Be sure to remove the pits from the plums before using them as a substitute.
Plums can also be used in place of apricots, cherries, or peaches in recipes.
5 – Pineapples

While pineapples and persimmons may seem like unlikely substitutes for one another, in reality, they share many of the same qualities.
Both fruits are sweet and juicy, with a slightly tart flavor accentuating their bright acidity.
Furthermore, both fruits are highly versatile and can be used in everything from desserts to savory dishes.
Perhaps most importantly, pineapples and persimmons are rich in Vitamin C, an essential nutrient that helps to boost the immune system.
As a result, substituting one fruit for the other can help ensure you get the nutrients you need to stay healthy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, persimmon is a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in various ways.
While it is not always easy to find, several substitutes can be used in its place.
In particular, fuyus, Sharon fruit, quince, plums, and pineapples are excellent substitutes for persimmon in sweet and savory dishes.
With a little creativity, you can enjoy the taste of persimmon even when the fruit is not in season.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Persimmon

Ingredients
- Fuyus
- Sharon Fruit
- Quince
- Plums
- Pineapples
Instructions
- Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
- Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.