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Smoky Crunchy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: The Best Easy Snack

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These smoky crunchy roasted pumpkin seeds are the perfect fall snack, with a deep smoky flavor and satisfying crunch. The secret is in the prep and spice blend, turning humble seeds into an addictive treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh pumpkin seeds (about 4 ounces)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon salt (plus more for seasoning)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing

Instructions

  1. Separate the seeds from the pumpkin pulp by placing them in a large bowl of cool water. Swish with your fingers; seeds will float and pulp will sink. Lift out seeds with hands or a slotted spoon.
  2. Rinse the seeds thoroughly in a colander under cold running water, removing any large chunks of pumpkin flesh.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups water and 1 tablespoon salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the cleaned pumpkin seeds, reduce heat to medium, and simmer for exactly 10 minutes.
  4. Drain the seeds in a colander and let cool for a minute. Spread them on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat very dry.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  6. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the dried seeds, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon cayenne (if using), and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir until every seed is evenly coated.
  7. Spread the seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd.
  8. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through at the 10-minute mark. Seeds are done when deep golden brown and smell intensely toasty.
  9. Cool completely on the baking sheet for at least 15 to 20 minutes. The seeds will continue to crisp as they cool.
  10. Sprinkle with a final pinch of flaky sea salt over the warm seeds. Toss gently and let finish cooling.

Notes

Do not skip the boiling step—it ensures a crunchy texture. Dry seeds thoroughly before roasting to avoid steaming. Watch the oven closely in the last 5 minutes to prevent burning. Let seeds cool completely before storing to maintain crunch.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://novanosh.com/smoky-crunchy-roasted-pumpkin-seeds-the-best-easy-snack/