Persimmon Season is Here: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

As autumn takes hold, the grocery store aisles are brimming with vibrant orange fruits you might recognize but not quite know how to use—persimmons! If you’ve ever picked one up and wondered, “What exactly do I do with this?”, you’re not alone. But don’t worry, you’re just a few tips away from becoming a persimmon pro.

Let’s dive into what makes this seasonal gem so special, how to tell the varieties apart, and the best ways to enjoy them before they disappear from shelves.

So, What Exactly Are Persimmons?

Persimmons might feel like an exotic treat, but they’re more accessible than you think. Originally hailing from China, they’re now grown across the globe, from Japan and Korea to Brazil and the U.S. With a season that stretches from October to December, now is the perfect time to try them out.

These fruits have a smooth peel that ranges from pale orange to a rich, red-orange hue. Their flavor is something magical—imagine a blend of mango, apricot, and pumpkin all in one bite. Depending on how you prepare them, you might even notice delicate hints of honey or cinnamon. The persimmon’s unique taste is what makes it a must-try this season.

Meet the Main Players: Fuyu vs. Hachiya

When you head to the store, you’ll typically find two types of persimmons: Fuyu and Hachiya. Though both are delicious, they’re best suited for different culinary adventures, so it’s important to know which one to grab depending on your plans.

Fuyu Persimmons

Fuyu persimmons are the easy-going, no-fuss option. With a squat, tomato-like shape, they’re firm even when ripe, which makes them ideal for eating raw. Just bite into them like you would an apple, peel and all! They’re sweet right from the get-go, and as they ripen, their flavor deepens with subtle notes of cinnamon that pair beautifully with both savory and sweet dishes.

Add Fuyu slices to salads, spread them on toasted French bread with brie, or even use them in a fall-inspired charcuterie board. Their crisp texture holds up well in no-cook recipes, making them perfect for tossing into grain bowls or topping your morning yogurt.

Hachiya Persimmons

If Fuyus are the friendly and approachable option, Hachiyas are their more intense, dramatic counterpart. Shaped like an acorn, Hachiyas need a little patience. Unlike Fuyus, which are deliciously sweet right off the bat, Hachiyas are incredibly astringent when underripe. But once they soften—think jelly-like soft—they transform into a luscious, sweet treat.

Don’t be alarmed when your Hachiya feels squishy; that’s exactly when it’s ready to eat! Their jammy texture and rich, honey-like flavor make them perfect for desserts. Scoop out the flesh to make a persimmon compote, or bake them into cakes and pies. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Hachiyas are the way to go.

How to Enjoy Persimmons: No Recipe Required

Fuyu persimmons are versatile enough to be eaten as-is—just bite in! For a different approach, slice them into wedges for a colorful salad, or cube them for a sweet addition to grain bowls or crostini. The peel is entirely edible, but if you’re a texture-sensitive eater, feel free to scoop out the flesh and discard the skin.

For Hachiyas, since they’re much softer, it’s best to cut them open and scoop out the sweet, jelly-like interior with a spoon. Their delicate nature makes them ideal for blending into smoothies, using in baked goods, or simply enjoying straight from the fruit. They’re a mess-free dessert all on their own!

How to Store Your Persimmons for Peak Flavor

Persimmons are often sold underripe, especially Hachiyas, so you’ll want to store them at room temperature until they soften. Once they’re ripe, you’ve got to act fast—they don’t have a long shelf life. Pop them in the fridge if you need a little extra time, but don’t leave them too long! For longer storage, freeze your ripe persimmons for use in smoothies or even a homemade frozen persimmon custard.

Whether you're adding Fuyus to your fall salads or waiting for Hachiyas to reach that perfect jammy softness, persimmons are a delicious way to celebrate the season. With their unique taste and endless versatility, they’re bound to become a new fall favorite. So the next time you see these vibrant fruits at the store, you’ll know exactly what to do. It’s time to embrace the peak of persimmon season—before it’s too late!