Somewhat resembling a tomato, Persimmons have a thin reddish-orange skin and soft flesh. Ripe fruit offers a pleasant, spicy, sweet flavour and is tannin-free. Described as having a flavour compared to a blend of mango and papaya, some say it has an apricot overtone.

Imported Persimmons are high in tannins and low in both protein and fat. These are most often eaten fresh, when ripe or used in recipes for candies, baked goods and beverages. Dried American Persimmons can be used in baked goods and have also been fermented with hops and whole grains to make a kind of beer. To store, refrigerate unripe fruit until ready for use. Once ripe, American Persimmons are quite perishable.