How to Make Perfect Pumpkin Seeds Crispy and Delicious

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the joy of autumn. One of my favorite seasonal activities is carving pumpkins, and while the spooky faces are fun, what I really look forward to is making Perfect Pumpkin Seeds! These little gems are not just a delicious snack; they’re also a fantastic way to utilize every part of the pumpkin. Plus, they’re a great addition to your Halloween Cake or as snacks für party gatherings. So, let’s dive into how to make these crispy, flavorful pumpkin seeds that will have everyone asking for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and nutritious, making them a guilt-free snack.
• Customizable with your favorite seasonings.
• Great for using up leftover pumpkin seeds after Halloween.
• Perfect for snacking or adding to salads and soups.

Ingredients

To make these Perfect Pumpkin Seeds, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• Seeds from 2 large pumpkins
• ½ teaspoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• Dash of salt

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making those delicious pumpkin seeds! Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Scrape out and remove seeds from your two pumpkins. Wash and clean your seeds, ensuring you remove any unwanted pumpkin rinds or deformed seeds. Rinse them in a colander and remove any remaining debris.
3. Soak the clean seeds in a bowl full of water for 1/2 hour on the kitchen counter or overnight in the refrigerator. Drain the seeds, discarding the water.
4. Fill a pot with water and a dash of salt (enough to cover the seeds). Bring the water to a boil. Place the seeds into the boiling water and boil gently for about 10 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat, drain the seeds, and place them back into your empty bowl. Toss the seeds with olive oil.
6. Lay out the seeds in a thin layer onto a cookie sheet. Sprinkle with Lawry’s Seasoned Salt. Place in the oven and turn the seeds over about every 10 minutes, ensuring they don’t burn. They’re done after about 40 minutes or when they become firmer and are no longer soft. You want them to be a darker yellow without dark spots.
7. Season with additional salt if desired. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Place into a clean mason jar or another food-safe storage container. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your pumpkin seeds turn out perfectly every time:

• For an extra crunch, try roasting the seeds at a lower temperature for a longer time.
• Experiment with different seasonings! Garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can add a unique twist.
• If you’re looking for Homemade Pumpkin Dehydrating Tips, consider dehydrating your seeds after boiling for an even crunchier texture.
• Make sure to spread the seeds out evenly on the baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly.

How to Serve

These crispy pumpkin seeds are incredibly versatile! Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Enjoy them as a standalone snack while watching your favorite movie.
• Add them to salads for a delightful crunch.
• Sprinkle them over soups for added texture and flavor.
• Mix them into your favorite easy pasta recipes for a unique twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin seeds can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how:

• Store your cooled pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• For a quick snack, just grab a handful whenever you need a crunchy pick-me-up!

So there you have it! Making Perfect Pumpkin Seeds is not only easy but also a fun way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or using them in your favorite pumpkin recipes, I hope you find joy in this delightful treat. And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out my Garlic Butter Beef Bites or Beef with Broccoli for quick family dinners. Happy snacking!