Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds: A Sweet and Crunchy Fall Snack
A delightful way to transform leftover pumpkin seeds into cozy, crisp fall treats.
Every autumn, as pumpkins are hollowed out for pies, soups, and festive jack-o-lanterns, a humble treasure waits inside: pumpkin seeds. While often thrown away or overlooked, these seeds can be transformed into a sweet, crunchy snack that celebrates the cozy flavors of fall. Cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds not only utilize leftovers but also deliver the perfect treat for both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds
- Easy to Make: The recipe is simple, requiring just a few pantry staples.
- Family-Friendly: Kids can help with separating seeds and coating them in sweet, fragrant cinnamon sugar.
- Versatile Snack: Enjoy as a standalone treat, add to yogurt, or sprinkle over oatmeal for a festive crunch.
- Perfect for Fall: A delicious way to extend pumpkin carving fun into the kitchen.
Getting Started: From Carving to Roasting
After carving your pumpkins, don’t toss those seeds! With just a bit of preparation, you can transform pumpkin innards into something truly delicious. This recipe captures the essence of fall through simple steps and warm spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin seeds | 1 1/2 cups | From one large or two medium pumpkins |
| Salted butter, melted | 2 Tbsp. | Brings rich flavor and helps spices adhere |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 tsp. | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Sugar | 2 Tbsp. | For the iconic sweet finish |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp. | Warm spice that captures the taste of fall |
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat Your Oven.
Set oven to 300°F (150°C) to gently roast the seeds. Lower temperatures ensure even cooking and prevent burning. - Prepare the Pumpkin Seeds.
After scooping seeds from your pumpkin, remove as much pulp as possible. Place the seeds in a colander and rinse under cold water, scrubbing away stringy bits. This step is key for crisp, non-bitter results. - Dry the Seeds.
Spread rinsed seeds on a clean kitchen towel or unlined baking sheet. Pat dry. Thorough drying ensures a crunchy final texture. - Roast to Dry.
Place seeds on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes until thoroughly dried but not browned. Stir halfway through for even drying. - Prepare the Flavor Coating.
In a medium bowl, mix melted butter and vanilla extract. - Coat the Seeds.
Drizzle the dried seeds with the butter-vanilla mixture. Toss until seeds are evenly coated. Sprinkle sugar and ground cinnamon over the seeds; toss again to distribute the sweet spice flavor. - Roast Again.
Return the coated seeds to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. Stir once halfway through the baking time. Seeds should turn light golden brown and smell wonderfully fragrant. - Cool and Store.
Let seeds cool completely before storing. Crunchy texture develops as they cool. Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer shelf life (up to 3 months).
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Seeds
- Fully Clean the Seeds: Remaining pulp can cause burning or bitterness. Thorough rinsing is essential.
- Taste for Toastiness: Oven times may vary, so check often after the first 15-20 minutes of roasting after coating. Seeds should be golden, not dark brown.
- Customize Flavors: Try swapping cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice, or experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or even a dash of cardamom for a more complex aroma.
- Make Ahead: Roasted pumpkin seeds are a great make-ahead snack for lunchboxes, parties, or road trips.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Butter: Substitute with coconut oil or olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- Sugar: Brown sugar or coconut sugar both work well for a deeper caramel note.
- Spice Mixes: Mix in pumpkin pie spice, chai spice, or even a hint of cayenne for sweet heat.
Storage and Freshness Tips
Once entirely cool, transfer seeds to an airtight container. They maintain crispness for up to 2 weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before snacking to preserve texture.
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds: Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Carbohydrates | Sugar | Protein | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4 cup | ~90 | 3g | 15g | 8g | 2g | 3g |
What others are reading
Pumpkin seeds are not only tasty—they’re packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Cinnamon adds antioxidants while sugar contributes sweetness, making this a treat that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying when enjoyed in moderation.
Creative Uses for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds
- Topping for Breakfast Bowls: Add a handful to yogurt, oatmeal, or chia pudding for texture and spice.
- Party Snack Mix: Combine with roasted nuts, popcorn, or dried fruits for a festive trail mix.
- Baking Garnish: Sprinkle over muffins, quick breads, or cookies before baking for sweet crunch.
- Holiday Gifting: Package in small jars or gift bags—these make lovely homemade fall gifts.
FAQ: Your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seed Questions Answered
Do pumpkin seeds need to be rinsed before roasting?
Yes. Rinse the seeds after scooping them from the pumpkin to remove remaining pulp and fibers. Clean seeds roast more evenly and taste better.
Can I use pre-shelled pumpkin seeds for this recipe?
The best flavor and crunch comes from seeds freshly scooped from pumpkins, but pepitas (shelled, green pumpkin seeds) can also be used for a slightly different texture.
What spices pair well with pumpkin seeds besides cinnamon?
Pumpkin seeds pair well with a wide range of seasonings:
- Sweet: Pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, cardamom
- Savory: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, curry powder, smoked paprika
- Spicy: Cayenne, chili powder for a hot-and-sweet effect
How do I prevent pumpkin seeds from becoming chewy?
Thoroughly dry the seeds before their first roast, and ensure they bake until golden brown after coating in butter and sugar. Any moisture can lead to a chewy texture.
What’s the best way to separate pumpkin seeds from the pulp?
Place seeds in a large bowl of water and use your hands to gently separate. Seeds float and stringy pulp sinks, making separation easier. Then rinse in a colander.
How long do cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds keep?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they remain fresh and crisp for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze and thaw as needed.
More Roasted Pumpkin Seed Flavor Ideas
- Maple Brown Sugar: Use maple syrup and brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer flavor.
- Coconut Chai: Coat with coconut oil and a blend of cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom.
- Chili Lime: For a savory kick, try chili powder with a squeeze of lime juice.
- Garlic Parmesan: Skip the sugar and toss with garlic powder and grated parmesan for a savory snack.
Make It a Family Tradition
Roasting pumpkin seeds isn’t just about the final snack—it’s the memories made in the kitchen. Kids enjoy pulling seeds from the pumpkin and tossing them in sugar and spice, while adults can appreciate the nostalgic taste and aroma wafting from the oven. As leaves turn and days grow cooler, this activity perfectly complements autumn celebrations.
Summary Recipe Card: Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin seeds (from 1 large pumpkin)
- 2 Tbsp. salted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 2 Tbsp. sugar
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F. Prepare, clean, and dry seeds as above.
- Roast seeds on a baking sheet for 30-35 minutes, until dry.
- Toss with melted butter and vanilla, then with sugar and cinnamon.
- Return to oven and roast 20-25 minutes, stirring once midway, until golden brown and aromatic.
- Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Storage
- Room Temp: Airtight container, up to 2 weeks
- Freezer: Up to 3 months
Yield
- About 1 1/2 cups
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I roast seeds from any type of pumpkin?
A: Absolutely. Any type of edible pumpkin or winter squash seed can be roasted using this cinnamon sugar method.
Q: Do I need to hull the seeds before roasting?
A: No, the entire shell softens during roasting and is edible. If you prefer shelled seeds, use store-bought pepitas.
Q: Are roasted pumpkin seeds healthy?
A: They offer protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals—enjoyed in moderation, they’re a nutritious seasonal snack.
Q: How do I prevent burning?
A: Roast at a moderate temperature (300°F) and stir seeds halfway through the final baking period. Remove from oven when light golden brown.
Closing Thoughts
The next time you carve a pumpkin, reserve those seeds and treat your family to this cinnamon sugar roasted pumpkin seed recipe. The process is simple, the flavors are nostalgic, and the result is a crunchy snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Happy fall snacking!
References
- https://chocolatechocolateandmore.com/cinnamon-sugar-pumpkin-seeds/
- https://www.aol.com/roast-cinnamon-sugar-seeds-pumpkin-103000064.html
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a62453862/cinnamon-sugar-pumpkin-seeds-recipe/
- https://marrykitchen.com/pioneer-woman-cinnamon-sugar-pumpkin-seeds-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a9651/pepitos/
- https://www.dispatch.com/story/lifestyle/food/2024/10/28/cooking-pumpkin-seeds/75776922007/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g62640502/what-to-make-with-pumpkin-seeds/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g62187864/cinnamon-sugar-recipes/
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