Best Pumpkin Seeds (pepitas) Substitutes for Cakes

Pick substitutes that preserve tenderness, aeration, and even rise in cake batters. Cake structure depends on balanced fat, sugar, and hydration. Wrong swaps can create a dense or dry crumb.

Reviewed by the CupOrGram Editorial TeamSources: King Arthur Baking, USDA FoodData Central, in-house testingMethodology

Can I make a cake without pumpkin seeds (pepitas)?

Yes. Start with Sunflower Seeds at 1:1, then adjust liquid or bake time in small steps after a test batch.

Top Recommendation

Sunflower Seeds

Use 1:1

Similar size and chew. Less mineral flavour.

View full adjustment notes →

How much does 1 cup of pumpkin seeds (pepitas) weigh?

On CupOrGram, 1 cup of pumpkin seeds (pepitas) is treated as 129 grams. Use the conversion page if you want the original ingredient weight before choosing a substitute.

Pumpkin Seeds (pepitas) cups to grams →

Common Questions for Cakes

Can I make a cake without pumpkin seeds (pepitas)?

Yes. Start with Sunflower Seeds at 1:1. Similar size and chew. Less mineral flavour.

What can I use instead of pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for cake?

Start with Sunflower Seeds (1:1) for the closest match.

Best pumpkin seeds (pepitas) substitute for cake?

Sunflower Seeds is the top pick here. Use 1:1 and adjust only after a test bake.

How do I substitute pumpkin seeds (pepitas) in cake batter?

Replace using 1:1, mix as usual, then tune liquid and bake time in small steps if needed.

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