Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

Table of Contents

1. Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Ingredients
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make This Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
4. When To Serve Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds
5. How To Serve Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds
6. How To Store Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds
7. Why We Love this Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
8. Air Fry Pumpkin Seeds Frequently Asked Questions
9. More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
10. JUMP TO RECIPE

Air fryer pumpkin seeds are the perfect snack to satisfy that savory crunch craving while keeping things simple in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you can turn those leftover pumpkin seeds into a crispy, flavorful treat that everyone will love. 

What You Need To Know

MAIN INGREDIENTS: Pumpkin seeds, avocado oil, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, black pepper

QUICK STEPS: Remove seeds from pumpkin, clean and dry, toss with oil and spices, air fry at 360°F for ten to twelve minutes, shake halfway through, cool before serving

TOTAL TIME AND YIELD: 20 minutes active plus 1-2 hours dry time, yields 2 cups

Why This Recipe

• Our team carefully tested the amount of avocado oil, known for its high smoke point, to guarantee the seeds crisp up beautifully with just the right amount, keeping them lighter than traditional roasting methods.
• After multiple rounds of testing, we found the perfect blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and black pepper, creating a smoky, savory flavor with just the right kick. This unique spice combination sets these seeds apart from plain versions.
• We found that drying the seeds for one to two hours before seasoning is the key to achieving a perfect crunch, avoiding the common sogginess found in other methods.

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Ingredients

Substitutions and Additions

SALT: For a different flavor, swap out the regular salt for sea salt seasoning salt, or kosher salt, which can add a slightly coarser texture.

SMOKED PAPRIKA: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or sweet paprika will work, though the smoky flavor will be less pronounced. You could also try using chipotle powder for a more intense smoky heat.

AVOCADO OIL: Olive oil is a great alternative if avocado oil isn’t available. It will give the seeds a slightly fruitier flavor.

GARLIC POWDER: If you’re out of garlic powder, onion powder can be used for a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.

CHILI POWDER: For a less spicy version, omit the chili powder or substitute it with a mild chili blend.

BLACK PEPPER: Ground white pepper can be used as an alternative, offering a more subtle heat. If you’re looking for a more complex flavor, try a pinch of ground coriander or cumin instead, which will give the seeds an earthy note.

How to Make This Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

STEP ONE: Remove the seeds from a large carving pumpkin, placing them into a colander along with the pulp. Run cool water over the seeds and use your hands to separate them from the pulp.

Be thorough in this step, as any leftover pulp can burn or affect the taste of the seeds during air frying.

STEP TWO: Spread the clean pumpkin seeds out in a single layer on a large-rimmed baking sheet. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible.

Leave them at room temperature for one to two hours to ensure they are completely dry. Drying the seeds properly is crucial for achieving a crisp texture when they are air fried.

STEP THREE: Transfer the fully dried seeds to a large mixing bowl. Add two teaspoons of avocado oil, a half teaspoon of salt, a half teaspoon of smoked paprika, a quarter teaspoon of garlic powder, a quarter teaspoon of chili powder, and an eighth teaspoon of black pepper.

Toss the seeds well to evenly coat them in the oil and spices. This step is key to making sure every seed is full of flavor and crisps up properly in the air fryer.. 

STEP FOUR: Place the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spreading them out is important to allow air circulation, which will help the seeds cook evenly.

If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook the seeds in batches to prevent overcrowding.

STEP FIVE: Set your air fryer to 360°F and cook the seeds for 10-12 minutes.

STEP SIX: At around the five minute mark, pause the air fryer and give the basket a good shake. Shaking the seeds ensures they cook evenly and prevents any from becoming overdone or sticking to the basket.

PRO TIP: As the seeds cook, keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown color and a crisp texture. If they aren’t quite done at the ten minute mark, let them cook for another one to two more minutes, checking regularly to avoid burning.

Remember that air fryer times can vary slightly, so visual cues are important here.

STEP SEVEN: Finish air frying the seeds for the remaining five to seven minutes.

STEP EIGHT: Once the seeds are done cooking, carefully remove the air fryer basket and let the seeds cool in the basket for about five minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up and reach their final crisp texture.

When To Serve Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

These crispy pumpkin seeds are a versatile, crowd-pleasing snack that can elevate any gathering or occasion with their satisfying crunch and smoky, flavorful seasoning. Their ease of preparation and bold flavor make them suitable for everything from casual munching to more formal gatherings, ensuring they’ll quickly become a favorite go-to snack.

Family Movie Night: Serve a bowl of these crunchy, flavorful pumpkin seeds to your family while watching your favorite movies, offering a healthier alternative to traditional popcorn that still satisfies the craving for something crispy and snackable.

Game Day Celebration: These seasoned pumpkin seeds are an excellent addition to your game day spread, providing a light, crunchy snack that pairs perfectly with other finger foods like sliders and wings.

Office Potluck: Bring a batch of air fryer pumpkin seeds to your next office potluck for a simple but memorable snack that can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for salads and soups, offering a delicious option that stands out from the usual potluck fare.

How To Serve Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

These flavorful seeds can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from casual snacking to more creative meals. Their smoky, savory flavor combined with a satisfying crunch makes them a versatile addition to different meals. Here are some suggestions for when to serve these seeds.

Casual Tasty Snack: Serve the pumpkin seeds as a simple, delicious snack during movie night, game day, or while relaxing with friends. Their light seasoning and crispy texture make them the perfect snack to munch on without overpowering other flavors.

Topping for Soups and Salads: These air fryer pumpkin seeds make an excellent topping for creamy soups, such as butternut squash soup or tomato soup. Their crunch and smoky flavor add texture and depth.

They also pair wonderfully with salads, particularly those with leafy greens like spinach or arugula. The seasoning from the seeds complements vinaigrettes or creamy dressings.

Lunch Bowl Add-On: Incorporate the pumpkin seeds into a grain bowl or salad bowl. Toss them into a mix of quinoa, roasted vegetables, and greens, adding a crunchy, flavorful element to the dish.

Breakfast Topping: Sprinkle these seeds over your morning yogurt or oatmeal to add a savory twist to a quick breakfast option. They contrast nicely with sweeter ingredients like honey, berries, or cinnamon, making your meal more complex and interesting.

How To Store Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

After making a batch of these crunchy air fryer pumpkin seeds you might find yourself with leftovers that need storing. Properly storing the seeds will help maintain their crunch and flavor, allowing you to enjoy them later.

MAKE AHEAD: You can make these pumpkin seeds ahead of time and store them at room temperature for a couple of days before serving. Simply allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.

This makes them a great option for prepping snacks in advance for parties or events.

IN THE FRIDGE: If you’d like to store the pumpkin seeds in the fridge, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They will last in the refrigerator for about five to seven days. Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent moisture from affecting the seeds’ crispiness.

IN THE FREEZER: Pumpkin seeds can be stored in the freezer if you want them to last longer. To freeze them, place the seeds in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to two to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the seeds at room temperature.

If they lose some crispness after freezing, reheating them in the air fryer for a few minutes can restore the texture.

REHEATING: To reheat the seeds, you can use the air fryer at 350°F for three to four minutes to bring back their crisp texture. Alternatively, you can warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds, though this method may not fully restore their crunch.

For best results, reheating in the air fryer or oven is recommended.

Why We Love this Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Crispy air fryer pumpkin seeds have quickly become a favorite, and it’s easy to see why.They offer a perfect combination of ease, flavor, and versatility that makes them an ideal snack for any occasion.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, anyone can whip up a batch of these crispy seeds in no time.

Customizable Seasoning: The recipe is flexible, allowing you to adjust the seasoning to fit your personal preferences or dietary needs.

Kid-Friendly: Getting the kids involved in scooping out the seeds makes this a fun activity for the whole family.

Air fryer pumpkin seeds are the perfect combination of quick, easy, and delicious, making them a great snack option for any occasion. With customizable seasoning and a satisfying crunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re making them for a casual snack or to share with friends, these seeds are always a hit!

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