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The Best Crispy Smoky Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

crispy smoky roasted pumpkin seeds - featured image

Transform pumpkin carving leftovers into an irresistible crispy, smoky snack. Boiling the seeds before roasting ensures a perfectly crunchy texture, while smoked paprika adds warmth and depth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups fresh pumpkin seeds (from one medium pumpkin)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water, plus more for finishing)
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Separate seeds from pumpkin pulp in a bowl of cool water. Scoop seeds into a colander.
  3. Rinse seeds thoroughly under cold water, removing any remaining pulp.
  4. Bring 4 cups water and 1 tablespoon salt to a boil. Add seeds and boil for exactly 10 minutes.
  5. Drain seeds and spread on a clean kitchen towel. Pat very dry with another towel or paper towels. Let air-dry for 5-10 minutes.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine dried seeds with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until evenly coated.
  7. Spread seeds in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Watch closely during the last 5 minutes.
  9. Check for doneness: seeds should be deep golden brown and smell toasty. Let one cool for 30 seconds before tasting.
  10. Cool completely on the baking sheet (at least 30 minutes) before serving or storing.

Notes

Boiling the seeds is essential for a crispy texture. Dry seeds thoroughly before roasting to avoid steaming. Watch closely at the end of roasting as seeds can burn quickly. For best flavor, let seeds cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seeds, roasted pumpkin seeds, smoky pumpkin seeds, crispy pumpkin seeds, fall snack, healthy snack, gluten-free snack, vegan snack