Best Pumpkin Seeds (pepitas) Substitutes for Pancakes & Waffles

Choose alternatives that hold batter consistency and help keep a light interior. These batters are sensitive to liquid ratios and acidity, both of which affect fluffiness and browning.

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

Can I make pancakes or waffles 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 Pancakes & Waffles

Can I make pancakes or waffles 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 pancakes?

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

Best pumpkin seeds (pepitas) substitute for pancakes?

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 pancake and waffle batter?

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

More Recipe Contexts