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Quick Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds (Easy 5-Minute Snack)

air fryer cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds - featured image

These quick air fryer cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds are everything you want in a fall snack without the hassle. From craving to crunching in under 15 minutes total, with no boiling or drying required.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh pumpkin seeds (or raw pepitas)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the pumpkin seeds in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water, rubbing gently to remove any pumpkin guts. Pat them damp-dry with paper towels.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 320°F for 2-3 minutes.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until it forms a paste. Add vanilla extract if using.
  4. Add the damp pumpkin seeds to the bowl and toss with a rubber spatula until every seed is coated.
  5. Spread the coated seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
  6. Air fry at 320°F for 5 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through.
  7. Check for doneness: seeds should be golden brown and smell like cinnamon toast. If needed, cook in 1-minute increments.
  8. Transfer seeds to a plate or baking sheet in a single layer and let cool completely (about 5-10 minutes) before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip the rinse—it helps the coating stick. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; half a cup per batch is ideal. Sugar can burn quickly, so keep temperature at 320°F. Let seeds cool completely for maximum crunch. For oven method: spread on baking sheet and roast at 350°F for 15-18 minutes, stirring halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pumpkin seeds, cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds, easy pumpkin seeds, quick snack, fall snack, pumpkin seeds