Best Pumpkin Seeds (pepitas) Substitutes for Muffins & Quick Breads

Use forgiving substitutions that still maintain moisture and lift in quick batters. Quick breads tolerate swaps better, but leavening and hydration still need balance to avoid gummy centers.

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

Can I make muffins or quick bread 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.

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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 Muffins & Quick Breads

Can I make muffins or quick bread 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 muffins?

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

Best pumpkin seeds (pepitas) substitute for muffins?

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 muffins and quick breads?

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

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