Crispy Pumpkin Seeds – Easy Air Fryer Recipe

Craving a crunchy, salty snack? These crispy pumpkin seeds are quick, wholesome, and perfect for fall. They’re lightly seasoned, super easy to make, and taste amazing warm from the air fryer. Snack on them anytime or sprinkle over soups for extra crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Pumpkin seeds make a snack that’s healthy, budget-friendly, and surprisingly addictive. You only need a handful of pantry staples to transform them into a crisp, golden treat. The air fryer makes the process quick and hassle-free, giving you perfectly roasted seeds without heating up the oven. Because pumpkin seeds are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, you can enjoy a snack that’s both crunchy and nourishing. You can also change the flavors with different spices, making each batch unique. This recipe is also a great way to use pumpkin leftovers after carving or cooking. Whether you enjoy them plain with a touch of salt or spiced for extra kick, these pumpkin seeds are a versatile snack you’ll keep coming back to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need just three ingredients. Start with one cup of cleaned pumpkin seeds. Use either melted butter for richness or olive oil for a lighter touch. Finally, add seasoned salt such as Lawry’s for that familiar savory taste. Feel free to experiment with spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar if you like a sweet twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Clean and Prepare the Seeds

Scoop the seeds from your pumpkin and rinse them thoroughly under running water. Remove any pulp or strings and spread the seeds on paper towels. Pat them dry completely, pressing gently to absorb moisture. The seeds must be fully dry before cooking so they crisp up properly.

Season the Seeds

Place the dry seeds in a bowl and drizzle with melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle on the seasoned salt and stir until every seed is evenly coated. You can also mix in chili powder, ranch seasoning, or cinnamon sugar for variety.

Air Fry the Pumpkin Seeds

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for 4 minutes. Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer inside the basket. Air fry for 10 minutes total, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. If you prefer extra salty seeds, sprinkle on a bit more before serving. Let them cool slightly before snacking.

Tips for the Best Crispy Pumpkin Seeds

Always make sure the seeds are completely dry before seasoning, since damp seeds won’t crisp. Spread them in one even layer so air can circulate around each piece. Shake the basket at least once during cooking to avoid uneven browning. If you’re cooking more than one cup, prepare each batch separately instead of crowding the fryer. This keeps the seeds crunchy instead of chewy. You can also adjust cooking time slightly depending on your air fryer model and how golden you like your seeds.

Flavor Variations to Try

Pumpkin seeds taste amazing with different spices. Try garlic powder and onion powder for a savory version, or cinnamon sugar for a sweet, fall-inspired treat. Chili powder or smoked paprika adds a bold kick. Ranch seasoning gives them a tangy twist. You can even sprinkle grated Parmesan after frying for a cheesy crunch.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These seeds are best eaten warm right out of the fryer, but you can store them too. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and keep at room temperature for up to three days. They’ll lose crispiness over time, so fresh is best. Try tossing them onto salads, sprinkling over creamy soups, or keeping a small jar nearby for quick snacking.

Nutrition Information

Each 2-ounce serving of pumpkin seeds has about 128 calories with 12 grams of fat, 5 grams of protein, and just 2 grams of carbs. They also provide fiber, iron, and a little calcium. These seeds give you a crunchy snack that’s satisfying without being heavy.

Explore Similar Recipes

If you love cozy fall snacks, you’ll also enjoy this chocolate chip pumpkin bread recipe. For another sweet bite, try these soft pumpkin oatmeal cookies. If you prefer savory, this creamy pumpkin pasta or the indulgent pumpkin magic custard cake will be perfect.

FAQ About Pumpkin Seeds

Conclusion

Pumpkin seeds are one of the simplest snacks you can make with pumpkin leftovers. With just a touch of seasoning and a quick air fry, you’ll have crunchy, flavorful seeds ready to enjoy. Try different flavors and see which one becomes your go-to fall snack. For more recipe inspiration, you can always find ideas on Pinterest.

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