How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds: A Family Favorite Recipe
Every fall, we roast pumpkin seeds. It has become a cherished family tradition every Halloween, turning pumpkin carving into a full fall experience. After cleaning out a fresh pumpkin, especially a sugar or pie pumpkin, it’s so satisfying to turn the mass of seeds into a tasty, crunchy snack.
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Cook Time20 minutesmins
Total Time25 minutesmins
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: 30 minute recipe, easy recipe, fall recipe, snack recipe
Servings: 4Servings
Calories: 120kcal
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1CupRaw Pumpkin Seedsfrom a fresh carving pumpkin, sugar pumpkin, or pie pumpkin
2CupsCold Water
1TablespoonSea Saltor kosher salt
1TablespoonOlive Oilor coconut, avocado, or vegetable oil
Optional seasonings: garlic powdercurry powder, chili powder, cinnamon sugar, brown sugar
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Instructions
Prepare the Pumpkin Seeds. Scoop out the mass of seeds from the pumpkin using a large spoon. Separate the seeds from the stringy pumpkin flesh and large pieces of pumpkin pulp. Rinse the seeds in a bowl of cool water to remove bits of pumpkin and slimy pumpkin flesh. Use a fine mesh strainer to drain excess water.
1 Cup Raw Pumpkin Seeds, 2 Cups Cold Water
Dry the Seeds. Spread the clean pumpkin seeds out on a kitchen towel or paper towels and pat dry to remove excess water. For the best results, let the seeds air dry for about 10–15 minutes, or blot with a dry towel if you're short on time.
Season the Seeds. In a large bowl, toss the dry seeds with olive oil or a little bit of oil of your choice until evenly coated. Add sea salt and any additional spices you’d like, such as garlic powder, curry powder, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.
Roast the Seeds. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly oiled sheet pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the seeds are golden brown and crisp.
Let the roasted pumpkin seeds cool to room temperature on the sheet pan. Transfer to an airtight container to store for up to a week.