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Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Sea Salt

crispy roasted pumpkin seeds - featured image

Perfectly crispy, salty roasted pumpkin seeds made with a simple boiling technique that ensures crunch from the inside out. An easy, budget-friendly fall snack that’s kid-approved and perfect for Halloween gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups fresh pumpkin seeds
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt (for boiling), plus extra for sprinkling
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Clean the seeds: Separate seeds from pumpkin guts, rinse in a colander under cold water, and pick out large pulp pieces. Shake off excess water.
  2. Boil the seeds: Bring 4 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons sea salt and stir until dissolved. Add pumpkin seeds and boil for exactly 10 minutes.
  3. Drain and dry: Pour seeds into colander, let cool briefly, then spread on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat very dry and let sit for 15 minutes while preheating oven.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). If oven runs hot, use 325°F.
  5. Season the seeds: Transfer dried seeds to a mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter and toss until evenly coated. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  6. Roast: Place baking sheet on middle rack. Roast for 20 minutes, then stir seeds. Spread back into even layer and roast another 10-15 minutes until deep golden brown and nutty aroma fills kitchen.
  7. Cool completely: Remove from oven, sprinkle with extra flaky sea salt while warm. Let cool on baking sheet for at least 15 minutes—they will crisp up as they cool.
  8. Taste test: Adjust salt if needed. If not crispy enough, return to oven for 5 more minutes.

Notes

Boiling step is essential for crispy, well-seasoned seeds. Dry seeds thoroughly to avoid steaming. Watch closely near end of roasting as seeds can burn quickly. Seeds continue to crisp as they cool. For variations, try Spicy Chili Lime, Sweet Cinnamon, Garlic Parmesan, Everything Bagel, or Maple Cayenne.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted pumpkin seeds, crispy pumpkin seeds, sea salt pumpkin seeds, fall snack, Halloween snack, easy snack recipe