Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Crunchy Golden Pumpkin Seeds Recipe: Oven-Roasted Perfection

Autumn’s golden hues bring a delightful snack of roasted pumpkin seeds with unbeatable crunch.

These salt-seasoned pumpkin seeds promise a delectable treat that will make every bite memorable.

Packed with nutrients and irresistible flavor, this simple recipe turns leftover seeds into a crowd-pleasing nibble.

Perfectly seasoned seeds emerge from the oven golden and crisp, tempting you with their aromatic warmth.

The process is straightforward, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.

Zero kitchen skills?

No worries – anyone can master these addictive seeds.

Crack open a batch and watch them disappear in moments.

What You Need for Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

For Seed Preparation:
  • Pumpkin Seeds: Fresh, clean seeds straight from the pumpkin that will transform into a crunchy, nutritious snack with a satisfying texture.
  • Olive Oil: Helps seeds crisp up beautifully and allows seasonings to stick perfectly while adding a smooth, rich undertone.
For Seasoning Base:
  • Salt: Enhances the natural nutty flavor of seeds and creates a delightful savory profile, balancing the seeds' earthy taste.
For Optional Flavor Boosters:
  • Garlic Powder, Paprika, Cayenne: Exciting spices that can elevate the seeds from simple to spectacular, adding depth and personal flair to your roasted treat.
  • Black Pepper: Introduces a subtle warmth and complexity that complements the seeds' natural crunch.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Tools & Prep Tips

  • Baking Sheet: Essential for spreading seeds evenly and roasting.
  • Paper Towels: Perfect for thoroughly drying seeds before seasoning.
  • Mixing Bowl: Needed for tossing seeds with olive oil and seasonings.
  • Measuring Spoons: Helps accurately add salt and optional seasonings.
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring seeds during roasting.

How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds Perfectly

  • Prepare Workspace

Get your kitchen ready by grabbing a baking sheet and lining it with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to a toasty 350°F.

  • Harvest Seed Treasure

Dig into your pumpkin and scoop out those hidden seed gems. Gently separate seeds from the stringy pulp, then rinse them under cool water. Shake off excess moisture and pat completely dry with clean towels.

  • Flavor Explosion

Drizzle seeds with olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings. Think salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even a dash of cayenne for those who love a kick.

  • Crisp to Perfection

Spread seeds in a single layer across the baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and roast for about 20 minutes, giving them a gentle stir halfway through. Watch for that gorgeous golden-brown color that signals crunchiness is coming.

  • Cool and Crunch

Pull out your seeds and let them rest. They’ll continue to crisp up as they cool down. Once they reach room temperature, dive in and enjoy your crunchy, salty snack.

Flavor Ideas for Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

  • Seed Salting Mastery: Use kosher or sea salt for more robust flavor compared to table salt, ensuring even coating by mixing thoroughly.
  • Crispiness Hack: Pat seeds completely dry before roasting to guarantee maximum crunchiness and prevent steaming.
  • Flavor Adventure: Experiment with spice blends like smoked paprika, garlic powder, curry powder, or za'atar for exciting taste profiles.
  • Dietary Modifications: For low-sodium diets, use minimal salt or substitute with herb blends. Gluten-free and vegan eaters can enjoy this recipe as-is without modifications.
  • Storage Wisdom: Store cooled roasted seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, maintaining their satisfying crunch and preventing moisture buildup.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 190 kcal

Servings: 4

Serve Roasted Pumpkin Seeds the Fun Way

  • Fall Harvest Snack Platter: Arrange roasted pumpkin seeds alongside crisp apple slices, sharp cheddar cheese, and dried cranberries for a festive autumn-inspired appetizer board that celebrates seasonal flavors.
  • Game Night Crunch: Sprinkle these crunchy seeds over popcorn or mix into trail mix for an extra protein boost during movie marathons or board game evenings with friends and family.
  • Salad Topper Delight: Elevate green salads by scattering these roasted seeds over mixed greens, adding a nutty texture and protein-rich crunch that transforms an ordinary salad into a gourmet experience.
  • Yogurt Breakfast Boost: Enhance morning yogurt or overnight oats by garnishing with these golden, seasoned pumpkin seeds for a satisfying breakfast that provides extra nutrition and delightful crunch.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Keep Them Crispy

  • Smart Storage Solutions: Keep roasted seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, maintaining their delightful crunch and flavor.
  • Batch Preparation Magic: Prepare multiple batches during pumpkin season, storing in sealed glass jars for quick snacking throughout autumn and winter months.
  • Freezing Tricks: Completely cool roasted seeds, then transfer to freezer-safe bags, where they'll stay fresh for 3-4 months without losing their crispy texture.
  • Meal Prep Inspiration: Pack these nutritious seeds into small portioned containers for work lunches, school snacks, or gym fuel – perfect for adding protein and crunch to salads, yogurt, or eating solo.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Homemade roasted pumpkin seeds offer a delightful snack perfect for autumn gatherings. Crisp seasonings and simple preparation make this recipe a quick and satisfying treat for hungry snackers.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fl oz) raw pumpkin seeds (cleaned and rinsed)
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) olive oil (or melted butter)
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml / 0.08 fl oz) salt
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml / 0.08 fl oz) garlic powder
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml / 0.08 fl oz) smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp (1.25 ml / 0.04 fl oz) black pepper

Instructions

  1. Seed Extraction: Carefully separate pumpkin seeds from pulp using fingers or a spoon, ensuring minimal waste.
  2. Cleansing Process: Rinse seeds thoroughly under cool water, eliminating all pumpkin remnants and debris, then meticulously dry with kitchen towels to remove excess moisture.
  3. Seasoning Preparation: In a mixing bowl, coat seeds with olive oil, kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, ensuring each seed is evenly dressed with the aromatic blend.
  4. Roasting Setup: Spread seasoned seeds in a single, uncrowded layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then position in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
  5. Transformation Stage: Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring midway to promote uniform golden-brown coloration and prevent burning, until seeds release a rich, nutty fragrance.
  6. Cooling and Crisping: Remove from oven and let seeds rest on the baking sheet, allowing them to cool completely and develop a satisfying, crisp texture.

Notes

  • Seed Selection Matters: Choose fresh, plump pumpkin seeds with intact shells for the best texture and flavor.
  • Thorough Drying Technique: Pat seeds completely dry to achieve maximum crispiness; moisture prevents perfect roasting and can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
  • Strategic Seasoning Approach: Use minimal oil to prevent soggy seeds; ensure even coating by tossing seeds gently and thoroughly with seasonings before roasting.
  • Prevent Burning Tactics: Spread seeds in a single layer without overcrowding, and stir midway through roasting to guarantee uniform golden-brown color and prevent scorching.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Snacks
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
William Hawkins

William Hawkins

Founder & Culinary Director

Expertise

  • Modern American and Southern Cuisine
  • Farm-to-Table Practices
  • Restaurant Concept Development
  • Culinary Education and Mentorship​

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, KY

  • Degree: Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on mastering culinary methods and food science, immersive externships, hands‑on training in industry‑standard kitchen labs, and equipping graduates for roles in restaurant operations.

William Hawkins isn’t just a chef, he’s a storyteller through food. From his hometown of Louisville, KY, he’s spent years refining his craft, turning local ingredients into something extraordinary. 

With classical training from Sullivan University and a career marked by innovation, mentorship, and Southern soul, William approaches every recipe with purpose. His kitchen is where old techniques meet fresh ideas, and where comfort food gets a thoughtful, modern twist. 

When he’s not building dishes from the ground up, he’s out gathering inspiration from nature, markets, and the stories people share around the table.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star