Pumpkins substitutes
Pumpkins substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Butternut squash
Same amount as the pumpkins
Similar large orange squash with sweet, earthy flavor and firm texture.
The best substitutes for pumpkins are butternut squash, acorn squash, or kabocha squash.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of pumpkins | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Butternut squashbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Acorn squashbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Kabocha squashbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Delicata squashbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Sweet potatoesbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
Butternut squash
similar taste and texture
Similar large orange squash with sweet, earthy flavor and firm texture.
- Best for
- baking, roasting, soups, side dishes
Very similar to pumpkins in flavor and texture.
Acorn squash
similar taste and texture
Similar large orange squash with sweet, earthy flavor and firm texture.
- Best for
- baking, roasting, soups, side dishes
Very similar to pumpkins in flavor and texture.
Kabocha squash
similar taste and texture
Similar large orange squash with sweet, earthy flavor and firm texture.
- Best for
- baking, roasting, soups, side dishes
Very similar to pumpkins in flavor and texture.
Delicata squash
similar taste and texture
Similar large orange squash with sweet, earthy flavor and firm texture.
- Best for
- baking, roasting, soups, side dishes
Very similar to pumpkins in flavor and texture.
Sweet potatoes
similar taste and texture
Similar large orange vegetable with sweet, earthy flavor and firm texture.
- Best for
- baking, roasting, soups, side dishes
Very similar to pumpkins in flavor and texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use butternut squash instead of pumpkins?
Yes, butternut squash is an excellent substitute for pumpkins. It has a very similar sweet, earthy flavor and firm texture, making it good for the same applications.
What's the difference between pumpkins and acorn squash?
Pumpkins are large orange squash with a sweet, earthy flavor and firm texture, while acorn squash is a similar large orange squash with a similar sweet, earthy flavor. Both work well in similar applications but have different cultural origins.
Can I make pumpkins at home?
Yes, you can make pumpkins at home by properly growing and preparing the squash. However, this process requires careful attention to growing times and can be time-consuming.
How long do pumpkins last?
Pumpkins can last for 2-3 months when stored properly in a cool, dry place. However, it's best to use them within 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.
Tips for substituting pumpkins
7 tips- Pumpkins are best when used in baking and roasting for their sweet, earthy flavor
- Store pumpkins in a cool, dry place and use within 2-3 months
- Pumpkins pair well with spices, sugar, and cream
- For baking, pumpkins add depth and richness to dishes
- Pumpkins can be used in both sweet and savory applications
- Add pumpkins gradually to avoid overpowering other flavors
- Pumpkins work well in marinades, dressings, and sauces