Perfectly Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Oh my gosh, have you ever made roasted pumpkin seeds at home? They’re so crunchy and yummy, I can’t stop snacking on them! I always get excited to scoop them out after carving pumpkins.

They’re super easy to make, too. Just a little oil, salt, and into the oven they go. The whole house smells sooo good while they roast.

If you want a fun, tasty snack, this recipe is just perfect. I’ll show you how I make them so you can munch right along with me!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Roasting pumpkin seeds is quick, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
• Customizable Flavors: You can make these seeds as sweet, spicy, or savory as you like, using pantry staples.
• Healthy Snack: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, pumpkin seeds are a great option for guilt-free snacking.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch and keep them for up to a week for a convenient snack or topping.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun activity to do with kids when carving pumpkins—let them help rinse and season the seeds!

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we start, here’s a list of the essential tools you’ll need for making Perfectly Roasted Pumpkin Seeds:

• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet to evenly spread your seeds for roasting.
• Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: For easy cleanup and to prevent the seeds from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Large Bowl: For tossing your seeds with seasonings.
• Spatula: For stirring and flipping the seeds halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking.
• Measuring Spoons: To measure your seasonings.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this savory treat (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Fresh Pumpkin Seeds: You can easily scoop these from the inside of a fresh pumpkin. Alternatively, you can buy pre-scooped seeds from stores.
• Olive Oil or Melted Butter: This will help crisp the seeds and carry the flavors of your seasonings.
• Optional Sweetener: Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey if you want to make your roasted pumpkin seeds on the sweeter side.
• Fine Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the natural flavors of the seeds.
• Optional Flavorings: Freshly ground black pepper for a touch of heat, or try some of these seasonings for a unique twist: pumpkin spice blend, ground cinnamon, curry powder, or smoked paprika.

Variations for Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

• Savory Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mix for some extra heat.
• Herb-Infused: Try rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder for an herbaceous flavor.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon along with a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a sweet-spicy combo.
• Sweet: Drizzle with extra maple syrup or honey, and add a dash of cinnamon for a dessert-like twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Roasting Pumpkin Seeds

1. Scoop and Clean the Seeds

Start by cutting open your pumpkin and scooping out the seeds. Use a spoon or your hands to separate the seeds from the stringy pulp. Place the seeds in a large bowl of water. Swish them around gently to remove any remaining pumpkin pulp. This step is important as it ensures the seeds won’t burn during roasting.

2. Dry the Seeds

After cleaning the seeds, spread them out on a kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the seeds roast evenly and get that perfect golden-brown color.

4. Season the Seeds

In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the pumpkin seeds with olive oil or melted butter. Toss to coat the seeds evenly. If you’re making a savory batch, add a pinch of salt and any additional spices you desire (like black pepper, cinnamon, or curry powder). For sweet roasted seeds, drizzle with maple syrup or honey, and add a sprinkle of cinnamon.

5. Spread the Seeds on a Baking Sheet

Spread the seasoned seeds out in a single layer on a parchment-lined or lightly greased baking sheet. This ensures they roast evenly and get crispy all over.

6. Roast the Seeds

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the pumpkin seeds for 15-20 minutes. Every 5-7 minutes, stir or flip the seeds with a spatula to ensure they cook evenly. Keep a close eye on the seeds during the last few minutes to prevent them from burning.

7. Cool and Serve

Once the seeds are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your freshly roasted pumpkin seeds as a snack, or sprinkle them over your favorite dishes.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Perfectly Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

These roasted pumpkin seeds are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:

• As a Snack: Perfect for a crunchy, healthy snack that satisfies your cravings.
• In Salads: Add a handful of roasted pumpkin seeds to salads for extra texture and nutrition.
• In Soups: Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds over soups, especially creamy pumpkin or butternut squash soup, for added crunch and flavor.
• In Granola: Add a handful of roasted pumpkin seeds to your homemade granola for a boost of protein and healthy fats.
• On Oatmeal: Sprinkle them on your morning oatmeal for added crunch and flavor.

Fun Tip:

You can even gift roasted pumpkin seeds as a DIY snack! Package them in a cute jar with a personalized label for a charming, homemade gift.

Storing Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

• Storage: Store your roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also refrigerate them.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months, and you can reheat them in the oven when ready to enjoy.

Nutrition with Table Format

Roasted pumpkin seeds aren’t just delicious—they’re packed with nutrition! Here’s a quick overview of their nutritional benefits per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per 1/4 cup (30g)
Calories	150-170 kcal
Protein	7-9 g
Fat	12 g
Carbohydrates	4-5 g
Fiber	2-3 g
Iron	2 mg
Magnesium	150 mg
Zinc	2-3 mg

Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats (especially omega-3s), and key minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc.

Conclusion

Perfectly Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are an easy and healthy snack that you can prepare with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you like them sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any palate. It’s the perfect way to use up your pumpkin seeds after carving your Halloween jack-o-lanterns or simply to enjoy a satisfying, crunchy treat.

Give this recipe a try the next time you have fresh pumpkin seeds on hand, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to turn them into a flavorful, wholesome snack. Plus, once you’ve made them, you’ll be hooked on this simple, nutritious snack that’s perfect for anytime of the year!

FAQs

Can I use already shelled pumpkin seeds?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can buy pre-shelled seeds, but freshly scooped seeds often have a more robust flavor and are more cost-effective.

How do I make roasted pumpkin seeds crispy?

The key to crispy pumpkin seeds is drying them thoroughly before roasting and ensuring they are spread evenly in a single layer on the baking sheet.

Can I make roasted pumpkin seeds ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast pumpkin seeds in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep or quick snacks throughout the week.