As Black sapotes ripen, dark smudges and spots appear on their skin. The fruit becomes wrinkled, giving it a bruised appearance at peak ripeness. Black sapote flesh is dark brown and has a burnt, caramelized look that takes on the texture of a date or overripe papaya when ready to eat.
Black sapotes are known for their chocolate-like flavor and are typically used for desserts like mousse, ice cream, and pie filling. Their dark flesh can be scooped out and eaten raw but is preferably sweetened and added to beverages, ice creams, cakes, and shakes.