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Easy Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds: Light & Crispy Spiced Recipe

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Light, crispy, and perfectly spiced pumpkin seeds made in the air fryer. This quick and easy recipe delivers a crunchy, smoky snack that’s perfect for fall munching, parties, or topping soups and salads.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (for boiling)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, for sweet and spicy version)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Rinse fresh pumpkin seeds thoroughly in a colander under cold water, removing any large pulp pieces.
  2. Fill a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a rolling boil. Add the pumpkin seeds and boil for exactly 10 minutes.
  3. Drain the seeds in a colander and let cool for 1-2 minutes. Spread them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat dry thoroughly.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using), 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk into a paste. Add the dried seeds and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Start checking at 6 minutes; seeds should be golden brown and smell toasty.
  6. Transfer the seeds to a plate or baking sheet in a single layer. Let cool completely for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Boiling the seeds for 10 minutes is essential for a light, crispy texture. Pat seeds very dry before seasoning to avoid steam. Watch the air fryer closely as cooking times vary; seeds go from perfect to burnt quickly. Let seeds cool completely for maximum crunch. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pumpkin seeds, crispy pumpkin seeds, spiced pumpkin seeds, fall snack, healthy snack, pepitas

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/easy-air-fryer-pumpkin-seeds-light-and-crispy-spiced-recipe/