if u r going to use the orange pumpkin, don't use the large ones. they r not too good for pie, imo. the small orange ones r much sweeter and less watery. in fact the butternut squash is a perfect replacement. if too watery just drain for a while, as others have posted. you can also use coconut milk as a dairy replacement. maybe some maple syrup as a sweetener, if u can find it. sort of off the pumpkin thread, i am in need of some gelatin for a pumpkin cheesecake. any suggestions?