Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds are a quick, crunchy, and nutritious snack that’s perfect for fall! With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform leftover pumpkin seeds into a delicious, golden, and savory treat in minutes. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and flavor — ideal for snacking or adding a crispy touch to your favorite dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (cleaned and dried)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or cinnamon (optional for flavor)

How To Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

1. Clean the seeds: Rinse pumpkin seeds thoroughly to remove pulp, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Season: In a bowl, mix the seeds with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices.
3. Preheat air fryer: Set to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes.
4. Air fry: Spread seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Cool and enjoy: Let the seeds cool completely before eating for maximum crispiness.

You Must Know

• Dry seeds completely before air frying to ensure they become crunchy.
• Shake or stir the seeds halfway for even cooking.
• Store cooled seeds in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Perfect for using up pumpkin leftovers after carving or baking!

Topping Variations

Experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste:

• Sweet: Cinnamon + sugar + drizzle of honey 🍯
• Spicy: Chili powder + cayenne + garlic powder 🌶️
• Savory: Parmesan + Italian seasoning + sea salt 🧀
• Smoky: Smoked paprika + onion powder + salt 🧂

Make It A Meal

• Sprinkle over salads for a crunchy topping.
• Add to soups like pumpkin, tomato, or butternut squash for texture.
• Mix into granola or trail mix for a healthy snack blend.
• Use as a garnish for roasted veggies or grain bowls.

Pro Tips

✅ Pat seeds completely dry before seasoning.
✅ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket — cook in batches if needed.
✅ Taste test during the last few minutes; air fryers vary in intensity.
✅ Let cool before storing to prevent sogginess.

Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought pumpkin seeds?
A: Yes! Just shorten the cooking time since they’re usually pre-dried.

Q: Why aren’t my pumpkin seeds crunchy?
A: They may not have been fully dried before air frying or the temperature was too low.

Q: Can I air fry seasoned pumpkin seeds?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure the seasoning isn’t too wet, or it might burn.

Q: How long do roasted pumpkin seeds last?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.