Crispy Chili Salt Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds: 5-Min Easy Snack
A quick and easy air fryer snack featuring raw pumpkin seeds coated in a savory blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic, and salt. These seeds are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for game day or a healthy afternoon treat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado or light olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (blend including cumin and garlic)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
- If using fresh seeds, rinse thoroughly in a mesh strainer to remove pulp, then pat dry with a kitchen towel. If using store-bought seeds, ensure they are dry.
- Place seeds in a large mixing bowl and add the oil. Toss until every seed is evenly coated and looks glossy.
- Add sea salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and sugar to the bowl. Toss again until the seeds have a uniform reddish-orange coating.
- Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 4 minutes, then remove the basket and shake it well to redistribute the seeds.
- Return to the air fryer and cook for another 4-6 minutes, watching closely after the 8-minute mark.
- Remove seeds when they are golden brown and making a slight cracking sound. Note that they will continue to cook after removal.
- Transfer seeds to a plate or bowl immediately to cool for at least 10 minutes. They will crisp up as they cool.
- Taste and adjust with additional flaky sea salt if desired. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
Do not use roasted seeds as they will burn. Ensure seeds are dry before cooking to achieve crispiness. Cook at 300°F to prevent spices from burning. Seeds continue to cook after removal, so take them out when they look almost done. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
Keywords: pumpkin seeds, pepitas, air fryer recipes, chili salt snack, healthy snacks, gluten-free, vegan, keto-friendly, game day food, quick snacks