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Crispy Baked Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds: Best Snack

crispy baked cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds - featured image

These crispy baked cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds are a sweet, salty, and addictive snack made from scratch. By thoroughly drying the seeds and roasting them at a low temperature, you achieve a perfect crunch without burning the sugar.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds, cleaned and dried
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Water for washing

Instructions

  1. Clean the seeds: Scoop seeds from the pumpkin into a large bowl. Add cold water and swirl to separate seeds from pulp. Skim off floating pulp and repeat until water is clear.
  2. Dry thoroughly: Spread wet seeds on paper towels and pat dry with more towels until they look matte, not shiny. Let them air dry for 10-15 minutes to ensure maximum crunch.
  3. Preheat oven: Set oven to 300°F (150°C).
  4. Melt butter: Melt the butter in the microwave or saucepan until liquid but not boiling.
  5. Coat seeds: Place dried seeds in a large bowl and pour melted butter over them. Toss until every seed is evenly coated.
  6. Add seasoning: Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt over the buttered seeds. Toss again to adhere the sugar, breaking up any clumps.
  7. Spread on pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread seeds in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  8. Roast: Bake for 20-25 minutes.
  9. Stir halfway: After 10 minutes, remove pan and stir seeds to ensure even browning.
  10. Check doneness: At 20 minutes, check for golden brown color. If pale, bake for 2-3 more minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  11. Cool: Remove from oven and let cool completely on the pan. Seeds will crisp up as they cool.

Notes

Ensure seeds are completely dry before roasting to achieve crispiness. Stirring every 5 minutes helps prevent hot spots. Seeds continue to crisp as they cool, so do not eat them hot. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seeds, cinnamon sugar, baked snacks, healthy snacks, zero waste, gluten-free, nut-free, fall recipes, pepitas