Pie pumpkin, also called sugar pumpkin or baking pumpkin, is a small variety of winter squash prized for its sweet, dense flesh. Unlike larger carving pumpkins, pie pumpkins typically have a smoother texture, lower water content, and richer flavor, making them especially well suited for cooking and baking. Their flesh is usually deep orange and becomes soft and creamy when cooked. Pie pumpkin has a naturally sweet, earthy flavor with mild nutty notes, and its texture makes it ideal for purées, soups, pies, breads, casseroles, and other savory or sweet dishes.