Substitute for Pumpkin: 4 Sweet Squash Alternatives
The best substitute for pumpkin is Butternut Squash at a 1:1 ratio. It works best for pies, soups, baking. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Butternut Squash
1:1
The most versatile substitute with a very similar sweet, nutty flavor. Easier to find year-round and simpler to peel.
What are the other substitutes for pumpkin?
Sweet Potato
1:1
Slightly sweeter and starchier. Works well in pies and baking. Cook and puree until smooth for the best results.
Kabocha Squash
1:1
Drier and more intensely sweet. Creates a denser puree. Excellent for pies and soups. Leave skin on for roasting.
Acorn Squash
1:1
Slightly less sweet and more fibrous. Roast and puree for a good pumpkin substitute in baked goods and soups.
What should you know before substituting pumpkin?
Canned pumpkin puree is a perfectly valid and often superior substitute for fresh pumpkin in baking. It is consistent in moisture and flavor. Make sure to buy plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling which contains sugar and spices.
How do you substitute pumpkin in a recipe?
A round winter squash with sweet, smooth orange flesh. Used in pies, soups, breads, and curries. Sugar or pie pumpkins are best for cooking, while jack-o-lantern pumpkins are watery and flavorless.
The best substitute for pumpkin depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Butternut Squash (1:1), which works well for pies, soups, baking.
If you need a different option, Sweet Potato (1:1) is another reliable choice. Slightly sweeter and starchier. Works well in pies and baking. Cook and puree until smooth for the best results.
When substituting pumpkin, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
Butternut squash puree is the best substitute at a 1:1 ratio with a very similar flavor and texture. Sweet potato puree also works well in pies and baked goods.
Can I use butternut squash instead of pumpkin?
Yes, at a 1:1 ratio. Butternut squash has a nearly identical sweet, nutty flavor and smooth texture. Many commercial canned pumpkin products actually contain a mix of squash varieties.