Crunchy Baked Pumpkin Seeds: The Perfect Fall Snack

When the autumn leaves start to dance in the wind and a crisp chill fills the air, my thoughts turn to one of life’s simplest joys: baked pumpkin seeds. These delightful little morsels are a crunchy snack that packs a punch of flavor and nostalgia. The moment you pop them in your mouth, their warm, nutty goodness envelops your taste buds like a cozy blanket on a chilly night.

I remember the first time I decided to bake pumpkin seeds while carving pumpkins for Halloween with my family. My kids squealed with delight as we separated the seeds from the gooey insides, and I promised them a tasty reward for our hard work. Little did I know that not only would we have the perfect post-carving snack, but we’d also create lasting memories around our kitchen table.

One particularly memorable moment was when I surprised my friends by serving these baked pumpkin seeds during a game night. Their crunch was met with delighted gasps and requests for the recipe—not just because they were delicious, but because everyone loves a good story about how they came to be.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pumpkin Seeds: Freshly harvested from a pumpkin works best; choose plump seeds for maximum crunch.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle will help the seeds crisp up nicely while adding rich flavor.

• Salt: Use sea salt or kosher salt to enhance the natural taste of the seeds.

• Your Favorite Spices: Get creative! Paprika, garlic powder, or even cinnamon can add unique flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This temperature allows your seeds to roast evenly without burning and turning into little charred nuggets.

Prepare your seeds: Rinse your pumpkin seeds under cold water to remove all pulp and stringy bits. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they roast perfectly crispy.

Seasoning time: In a bowl, combine your cleaned pumpkin seeds with olive oil and salt. Toss until every seed is coated in oil—a little seasoning makes all the difference!

Spice it up: Sprinkle in any spices you desire—maybe some paprika for smokiness or cinnamon for a sweet touch! Mix well so each seed gets its fair share of flavor.

Bake away: Spread the seasoned seeds on a baking sheet in a single layer. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-30 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.

Cool and enjoy: Once they’re out of the oven, let those beauties cool down before diving in! The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone circling like vultures!

This delightful process transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible snack that’s perfect for gatherings or quiet nights at home with Netflix. Each step not only builds anticipation but also connects you with cherished memories of past harvests and family fun!

Now you’re all set to embark on a culinary adventure filled with laughter and crunch! Enjoy those baked pumpkin seeds; they’ll soon become a family favorite just like mine!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing and drying your pumpkin seeds after carving. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika, garlic powder, or even cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist. You can also try tossing in some grated Parmesan for added flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store baked pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to refresh them, simply pop them back in the oven for a few minutes.

I remember the first time I made baked pumpkin seeds; my friends devoured them within minutes! The compliments kept coming, and I realized how simple yet rewarding this recipe is.

FAQ

Can I use raw pumpkin seeds?

Yes, raw pumpkin seeds are ideal and will roast beautifully in the oven.

How do I know when they are done?

They should be golden brown and crispy. Stir them occasionally while baking to check.

What spices work best with baked pumpkin seeds?

Popular choices include garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or cinnamon for a sweet option.

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Baked Pumpkin Seeds

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Baked pumpkin seeds are a delightful and nutritious snack, perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their irresistible crunch and nutty flavor can be easily customized with your favorite seasonings. This simple recipe transforms fresh pumpkin seeds into a warm, toasty treat that will have everyone coming back for more.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 1 cup pumpkin seeds
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Your choice of spices (e.g., 1 teaspoon paprika, garlic powder, or cinnamon)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Rinse the pumpkin seeds under cold water to remove any pulp. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, toss the cleaned seeds with olive oil and sea salt until evenly coated.
4. Add your chosen spices and mix well.
5. Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant.
7. Let cool before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 cup (30g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg