Last weekend my kids carved pumpkins so naturally I had to make air fried pumpkin seeds. What can I say, Fall just isn’t complete without a handful of homemade pumpkin seeds!
This method will yield a deliciously crunchy and healthy snack. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of spices. In my opinion the best way to roast pumpkin seeds is by using an air fryer. It takes less time to get that oh so perfect crisp texture.
Table of Contents
How to Clean Pumpkin Seeds
Let’s start with how to clean pumpkin seeds. This is not my favorite part and probably the most tidious task of the whole process but it has to be done. So, I roll up my sleeves and dump the pumpkin pulp into a large bowl, add water and squish the pumpkin pulp till the seeds come out. Once the seeds are separated from the pulp I scoop out the seeds and put in a colander for easy rinsing. Run water over the seeds and rinse off any remaining pulp. Afterwards I do one last rinse before laying them out on a paper towel or cleaan kitchen towel to dry for 30 minutes. Press to gently remove any excess water.
You can separate the outer white shell from the inner seed if you want. I seriously don’t have the patience to do that and air fry them as they are – shell on!
How to Air Fried Pumpkin Seeds
Using the air fryer to roast the pumpkin seeds is so much more convenient to use than the oven. My air fryer doesn’t pre-heat so I never do that I simply toss them in and press start. But before you do that:
- Make sure your seeds are completely dry.
- In a large bowl, sprinkle some olive oil and sea salt along with your choice of seasonings. Maybe start with a classic combination of garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Mix well till the seeds are well coated
- Spread them in your air fryer basket in one layer
- Cook at 360F for 10-15 minutes and shake or stir half way through for even roasting
- Once the time is up, check whether they are to your desired crispiness. If not, don’t worry just put them back in for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Let them cool. Adjust seasoning if needed and enjoy your fall snack.
Benefits of Air Fried Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds or as we call them pepitas are full of nutrients. Pumpkin seeds are also rich in antioxidants and contain a high content of magnesium. Other benefits of pumpkin seeds is their potential to lower blood levels and high fiber aids in digestion. But, keep in mind too many can cause bloating and gas. You should also watch what you put on your seeds…keep it healthy by taking it easy on the salt and sugar.
Storing Your Pumpkin Seeds
These pumpkin seeds are so good we have never had to store any but you can if you need to.
Airtight container: Pumpkin seeds do not need to be refrigeratedif you intend to eat them within a month. Your seeds will be fine in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month.
Freezer: Not sure why anyone would ever freeze their seeds but it is possible. You can freeze your seeds for up to 6 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and warm in the oven.
Savory Pumpkin Seed Flavor Combinations
Are you team savory when it comes to snacks? Then you might like these tasty combinations.
Paprika! (has a gentle kick)
- Smoked paprika: sweet and warm seasoning
- Garlic powder: a bit silkier than fresh garlic
- Salt and pepper: just a dash!
Garlic Parmesan (sooo good!)
- Grated Parmesan
- Garlic powder
Sweet Pumpkin Seed Flavor Combinations
Team sweet? No problem, these flavor combinations have just the right amount of sweetness and make for a delish and (mostly) nutritious fall snack.
Cinnamon Maple (um, yum!)
- maple syrup
- ground cinnamon
- ground ginger
- ground nutmeg
- ground cloves
Pumpkin Spice (if you could taste fall it would probably taste like this)
- Pumpkin pie spice
- sugar