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Cozy Smoky Spiced Pumpkin Seeds: The Best Fall Snack

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These smoky, crunchy pumpkin seeds are the perfect fall snack, made with simple pantry ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes. They’re a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, with a balanced blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of cayenne.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1½ cups fresh pumpkin seeds, rinsed and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweet-smoky version)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. If using fresh pumpkin seeds, rinse them thoroughly in a colander under cool water, removing all stringy pulp. Pat completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
  3. Optional but recommended: Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil, add the seeds, and boil for 10 minutes. Drain and pat dry again for extra crispiness.
  4. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to break up clumps.
  5. Place the dried seeds in a medium mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until every seed is lightly coated. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the seeds and toss again to distribute evenly.
  6. Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure no seeds are piled on top of each other.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. The seeds are done when golden brown and fragrant, and you hear a faint crackling sound.
  8. Cool completely on a plate or cutting board for at least 15-20 minutes before eating. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

For extra flavor, toast the smoked paprika and garlic powder in a dry skillet for 30 seconds before mixing. Watch the seeds closely during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning. The smoky flavor becomes more pronounced after a day or two.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seeds, fall snack, smoky, spiced, easy, healthy, gluten-free, vegan, potluck

Find it online: https://platebelle.com/cozy-smoky-spiced-pumpkin-seeds-the-best-fall-snack/