Fall is officially here, which means pumpkins are everywhere! Carving pumpkins is a fun family tradition, but what do you do with all those pumpkin seeds? Don’t toss them! Roasting pumpkin seeds transforms them into a crispy, tasty snack, perfect for munching on during cozy evenings.
These Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are incredibly easy to make, and I’ve got eight fantastic flavor combinations to keep things interesting. From sweet and spicy to savory and tangy, there’s a perfect flavor for everyone. Get ready to discover your new favorite fall snack!
Why You’ll Love These Seeds
- Flavorful Fun: These roasted pumpkin seeds aren’t your average snack. With eight different flavor profiles, you can explore sweet, savory, spicy, and everything in between!
- Simple Snacking: Roasting pumpkin seeds is surprisingly easy. A few simple steps and you’ve got a healthy and delicious snack.
- Waste-Free Wonders: Don’t let those precious pumpkin seeds go to waste! Roasting them is a great way to reduce food waste and enjoy a tasty treat.
- Crowd-Pleasing Crunch: Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just enjoying a quiet night in, these crispy seeds are the perfect snack to share. They are always a big hit!
Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Turn discarded pumpkin seeds into a delicious and crispy snack with eight unique flavor combinations. From sweet and spicy to savory and tangy, these roasted seeds are perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds (cleaned and dried overnight)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp dill pickle juice
- 1 tsp dry dill
- ¾ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning
- ½ tsp dry mustard powder
- ⅛ tsp salt
- 4 tsp buffalo sauce
- 2 tsp ranch seasoning
- 4 tsp barbeque seasoning
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Pumpkin Seeds: Separate seeds from pumpkin pulp, rinse, and dry completely for 8-12 hours or overnight.
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Flavor & Toss: Combine dried seeds, avocado oil, and chosen flavor combination in a bowl; toss evenly.
- Roast to Perfection: Spread seeds in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Cool & Store: Let seeds cool completely on the pan for at least 10 minutes before storing in an airtight container.
Notes
For optimal crispiness, ensure your pumpkin seeds are completely dry before roasting. Adjust baking times based on your oven; start checking for doneness at 15 minutes. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spice blends and seasonings for a customized flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredient Overview
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds:
Roasted Pumpkin Seed Base:
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds (cleaned and dried overnight)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
Flavor Combinations:
- Honey Cinnamon: 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp salt
- Pumpkin Spice: 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, ½ tsp salt
- Dill Pickle: 1 tsp dill pickle juice, 1 tsp dry dill, ¾ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp salt
- Garlic Parmesan: 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp salt
- Ranch: 1 tbsp ranch seasoning, ½ tsp dry mustard powder, ⅛ tsp salt
- Buffalo: 4 tsp buffalo sauce, 2 tsp ranch seasoning, ⅛ tsp salt
- BBQ: 4 tsp barbeque seasoning, 2 tsp maple syrup, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp salt
- Sweet & Spicy: 1 tbsp maple syrup, ½ tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pumpkin Seeds
Start by carving your pumpkin and scooping out the seeds and pulp. Separate the seeds from the stringy pulp and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Spread the clean seeds in a single layer on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and let them dry completely for at least 8–12 hours, or preferably overnight. This drying time is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Step 2: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the seeds from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 3: Flavor & Toss
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of the dried pumpkin seeds with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Choose your desired flavor combination from the list above and add those ingredients to the bowl. Toss everything together until the seeds are evenly coated.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Spread the flavored pumpkin seeds in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, so they roast evenly. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and delightfully crispy. Keep a close eye on them toward the end of the cooking time to prevent burning.
Step 5: Cool & Store
Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the seeds cool completely on the pan for at least 10 minutes. This allows them to crisp up even more. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. These crispy treats will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Drying Time is Key: Don’t rush the drying process! Thoroughly dried seeds are crucial for maximum crispiness. For even faster drying, try using a dehydrator.
- Oil Options: While avocado oil works beautifully, you can substitute other oils with a high smoke point like grapeseed or sunflower oil.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings to your liking. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations! Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the honey cinnamon version for an extra layer of flavor. Check out our guide to making Korean Fried Chicken for another flavorful option!
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the seeds are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote even roasting and prevent steaming.
Flavor Twists
- Spicy Maple-Glazed: Toss the roasted seeds in a mixture of maple syrup, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt while they’re still warm for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Everything Bagel: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on the seeds before roasting for a savory and flavorful snack.
- Parmesan & Herb: Combine grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and thyme with the seeds before roasting for an Italian-inspired twist.
- Curry Roasted: Add a blend of curry powder, turmeric, and cumin to the seeds before roasting for a warm and aromatic flavor.
Want more delicious and easy snacks? Check out our amazing Korean pancake recipe!
How long do roasted pumpkin seeds last?
Roasted pumpkin seeds can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Proper storage is key to maintaining their crispiness and preventing them from going stale.
Can I roast pumpkin seeds without drying them first?
While you *can* roast pumpkin seeds without drying them, they won’t achieve the same level of crispiness. Drying helps to remove excess moisture, resulting in a crunchier texture. If you’re short on time, you can try patting them as dry as possible, but the results won’t be quite the same.
What’s the best way to clean pumpkin seeds?
The easiest way to clean pumpkin seeds is to separate them from the pulp, then rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Use your fingers or a spoon to remove any stubborn bits of pulp. A colander can be helpful for rinsing.
Can I use other types of oil for roasting?
Yes, you can use other oils with a high smoke point, such as grapeseed oil or sunflower oil, as substitutes for avocado oil. However, different oils may impart a slightly different flavor to the roasted seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are perfect for snacking straight from the container. They also make a fantastic addition to salads, soups, and trail mixes. Try sprinkling them on top of a creamy butternut squash soup or adding them to a fall-inspired salad with roasted vegetables and cranberries. They also make a fun and festive topping for cupcakes or muffins! Enjoy them as a pre-dinner snack or alongside some of our other delicious recipes, like this Korean BBQ.
That’s a Wrap!
I hope you give these Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds a try. They’re the perfect way to reduce food waste, enjoy the flavors of fall, and create a delicious snack that the whole family will love. If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below, I’m always happy to help. Find more delicious recipes like this on our Desserts page! Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media! Find me on Pinterest, Instagram, or Facebook!
