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Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Best Healthy Snack

crispy cinnamon sugar roasted pumpkin seeds - featured image

Transform messy pumpkin seeds into a golden, crunchy, and addictive snack with this simple recipe. Coated in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, these roasted seeds are the perfect guilt-free treat for any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh pumpkin seeds (approx. 300g)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Extract seeds from pumpkin and place in a large bowl. Cover with cold water and swish to loosen pulp. Pour off floating pulp and repeat rinsing 2-3 times until water runs clear.
  2. Transfer seeds to a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water, rubbing seeds together to remove remaining white strings.
  3. Spread cleaned seeds on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Pat dry thoroughly until seeds look matte, not shiny. This step is critical for crunch.
  4. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and vegetable oil together. Set aside to cool slightly.
  6. In a large bowl, combine dried seeds, melted butter/oil mixture, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla. Toss vigorously until every seed is evenly coated.
  7. Spread coated seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd.
  8. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Seeds should be golden-brown and fragrant.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the pan for at least 15 minutes. Seeds will crisp up as they cool.

Notes

Ensure seeds are completely dry before roasting to achieve maximum crunch. Use a lower oven temperature (325°F) to prevent the sugar from burning. Seeds will feel soft when hot but will crisp up as they cool. Store in an airtight container for up to one week. For a dairy-free option, swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.

Nutrition

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