Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe: Flavorful Snack for Fall

Spread the love

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe: A Crunchy, Flavorful Snack for Fall

Introduction

As fall settles in, pumpkin season is in full swing. From pumpkin soup to pumpkin puree, the vibrant orange fruit offers endless possibilities. But one underrated star of pumpkin recipes is roasted pumpkin seeds. These crispy, crunchy bites, often called pepitas, are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Whether you’re carving a jack-o’-lantern or cooking with pumpkin puree, don’t let those seeds go to waste! Here’s the best roasted pumpkin seeds recipe you’ll ever need, whether you’re using raw pumpkin seeds, shelled pumpkin seeds, or want to try making flavored pumpkin seeds.

Recipe Card: Best Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Recipe Name:
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Description:
Deliciously crispy, roasted pumpkin seeds are a healthy snack that’s perfect for munching on their own or sprinkling over soups, salads, and more. Whether you use salted pumpkin seeds or go for sweet and spicy flavors, these are sure to be a hit.

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes
Servings	2 cups of pumpkin seeds
Calories	160 calories per serving

Ingredients:

2 cups raw pumpkin seeds (or shelled pumpkin seeds)
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp salt (for roasted salted pumpkin seeds)
Seasonings of your choice (e.g., cinnamon sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper for flavored pumpkin seeds)

Instructions:

Prepare the Pumpkin Seeds: After scooping out your fresh pumpkin or pie pumpkin, separate the seeds from the pulp. Rinse the raw pumpkin seeds under cold water, then dry them with a towel.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Season the Seeds: Toss the raw pumpkin seeds in a bowl with olive oil or melted butter, salt, and your favorite seasonings.
Spread and Roast: Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.
Cool and Enjoy: Once the seeds are golden and crispy, remove from the oven and let them cool completely before enjoying.

Notes:

If you’re using shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas), reduce the roasting time to 10-15 minutes.
Try using pumpkin seed powder or pumpkin seed butter for a different twist on flavor.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Serving Size: ¼ cup
Calories: 160
Fat: 14g
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 150mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Customizable: This pumpkin seed recipe can be adapted with any flavors you love, from sweet cinnamon to spicy cayenne.
Nutritious Snack: Pumpkin seeds are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a perfect guilt-free snack.
Eco-Friendly: Use every part of the pumpkin, from the seeds to the flesh, reducing waste and adding to your collection of pumpkin recipes.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Pumpkin Seeds: You can use raw pumpkin seeds, shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas), or even butternut squash seeds. The roasting process remains the same, although shelled pumpkin seeds will require less roasting time.
Seasonings: Salt is the classic seasoning, but you can create flavored pumpkin seeds with spices like cinnamon, paprika, or even pumpkin spice.
Oil/Butter: Olive oil or melted butter works great, but you can also try coconut oil for a slightly different flavor.

How to Make Roasted Pumpkin Seeds (Step-by-Step)

Prepare the Seeds: After scooping out your fresh pumpkin, rinse the seeds to remove any pulp. For an extra crunch, make sure they are completely dry before roasting.
Season: Mix the seeds with olive oil and seasonings. For classic salted pumpkin seeds, use salt and pepper. To make flavored pumpkin seeds, experiment with spices like cinnamon, paprika, or cayenne.

Roast: Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast until they’re golden and crispy.

Expert Tips for Success

Dry Seeds Thoroughly: Moisture prevents the seeds from getting crispy, so be sure to pat them dry after rinsing.
Even Layering: Spread the seeds evenly on the baking sheet, ensuring they roast properly without overlapping.
Watch Closely: Pumpkin seeds can go from perfectly roasted to burnt in minutes, so keep an eye on them as they near the end of roasting.

Variations and Customizations

Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and cinnamon sugar to create a sweet heat combo.
Herb-Infused: Toss the seeds with rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder for an herby snack.
Pumpkin Soup Topping: Use these toasted pumpkin seeds as a crunchy topping for roast pumpkin soup or butternut squash soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store your roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container for up to a week.
Reheating: If your seeds lose their crunch, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness.
Freezing: You can freeze dry roasted pumpkin seeds for longer storage and re-roast them when needed.

Serving Suggestions

Toppings: Add roasted pumpkin seeds to salads, soups, or smoothie bowls for an extra crunch.
Snacks: Pair these seeds with dried fruit and nuts for a DIY trail mix.
Baking: Incorporate them into your pumpkin puree recipes, muffins, or breads for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought pumpkin seeds?
Yes! You can buy raw pumpkin seeds or shelled pumpkin seeds and follow the same roasting process.
Do I need to shell the pumpkin seeds before roasting?
No, you can roast the seeds in their shells. If using pepitas seeds (shelled), just adjust the cooking time to be shorter.
How do I make my pumpkin seeds extra crispy?
Drying the seeds thoroughly before roasting and spreading them in an even layer on the baking sheet will ensure a crispy result.

Pumpkin Soup Recipe: Pair your roasted pumpkin seeds with a bowl of creamy roast pumpkin soup for a hearty fall meal.
Homemade Pumpkin Puree: Learn how to make your own pumpkin puree from scratch, perfect for pies, soups, and baked goods.
Pumpkin Butter: Spreadable and smooth, pumpkin butter is a delightful autumn treat.

Conclusion

This roasted pumpkin seeds recipe is simple, nutritious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re using raw pumpkin seeds, trying out seasoned pumpkin seeds, or adding them as a topping to pumpkin soup, you’ll love how versatile and delicious they are. From snack time to dinner garnishes, roasted pumpkin seeds are the perfect way to enjoy the season! Try them today and discover why they’re one of the best pumpkin seeds recipes out there!

Give it a try, and enjoy the nutritious boost and satisfying crunch of this Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats Recipe! Perfect for starting your day with a wholesome breakfast or as a nourishing snack. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we can’t wait to see how you make this cozy fall recipe your own!