Print

Easy Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds – Perfect Fall Snack

cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds - featured image

These crispy cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds are the perfect fall snack, combining sweet and salty flavors with a satisfying crunch. Made with simple ingredients and a quick rinse-and-roast method, they’re ideal for pumpkin carving parties, Thanksgiving leftovers, or cozy movie nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh pumpkin seeds (from one medium pumpkin; about 3/4 cup after cleaning)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Clean the pumpkin seeds: Separate seeds from pumpkin guts, rinse in a colander under cold water, removing stringy flesh. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
  3. Dry the seeds thoroughly: Spread rinsed seeds on a towel and pat completely dry. Let air dry for 5-10 minutes if possible.
  4. Mix the coating: In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir until fully incorporated into a thick paste.
  5. Toss the seeds: Add dried pumpkin seeds to the bowl and toss with a spatula until every seed is evenly coated. Break up any clumps with your fingers.
  6. Spread on baking sheet: Pour coated seeds onto prepared baking sheet in a single, even layer. Avoid overcrowding.
  7. Roast for 20-25 minutes: Roast for 10 minutes, then stir seeds with a spatula. Return to oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  8. Cool completely: Remove from oven and let cool on the pan for 10-15 minutes. They will become crispier as they cool.
  9. Break apart and serve: Once cool, break apart any clusters. Transfer to a bowl and enjoy immediately or store for later.

Notes

Drying the seeds thoroughly is crucial for crispiness. Watch the oven closely as sugar can burn quickly. Let seeds cool completely before serving for maximum crunch. Double the batch if sharing, as they disappear fast.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seeds, cinnamon sugar, fall snack, crispy, easy, Halloween, Thanksgiving