Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer pumpkin seeds are an easy, waste-free way to use the seeds from a pumpkin. Instead of tossing them, you can roast them into a nutritious snack high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. The air fryer ensures even crispiness in less time compared to the oven, and you can customize the seasoning to suit your taste—salty, spicy, or even sweet.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh pumpkin seeds (cleaned and rinsed)

• Olive oil or avocado oil

• Salt

• Seasonings of choice (paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon sugar, etc.)

Directions

1. Rinse the pumpkin seeds thoroughly to remove any pulp and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.

2. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

3. In a bowl, toss the pumpkin seeds with olive oil, salt, and your desired seasonings until evenly coated.

4. Spread the seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

5. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

6. Remove once golden brown and crispy, then let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 1 cup of roasted pumpkin seeds, serving 4 people as a snack. Preparation takes 10 minutes, and cooking takes 12–15 minutes.

Variations

• Sweet: Toss seeds with cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar.

• Spicy: Add chili powder, cayenne, or hot paprika for a kick.

• Savory: Use garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

• Herbed: Toss with dried rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. To re-crisp, warm in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes.

FAQs

Do I need to boil the pumpkin seeds first?

No, boiling isn’t necessary, but some people do it to soften the shells for easier seasoning absorption.

Can I leave the shells on?

Yes, the shells are edible and crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

How do I make the seeds extra crispy?

Make sure they’re completely dry before air frying and avoid overcrowding the basket.

Can I use store-bought pumpkin seeds?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time since they may already be pre-dried.

Should I soak pumpkin seeds before roasting?

Soaking is optional and may make the shells easier to digest, but it’s not required.

Can I air fry seeds from any type of pumpkin?

Yes, all pumpkin varieties produce edible seeds, though size and flavor may vary.

How do I keep them from burning?

Shake the basket halfway through and check them toward the end of cooking.

Can I flavor them after cooking?

Yes, you can toss them in spices or melted butter right after air frying.

Are air fryer pumpkin seeds healthy?

Yes, they’re a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them a nutritious snack.

Can I use other squash seeds?

Absolutely, seeds from butternut, acorn, or spaghetti squash work well too.

Conclusion

Air fryer pumpkin seeds are a simple, crunchy, and customizable snack that makes the most of pumpkin season. Whether you like them salty, spicy, or sweet, they roast up perfectly crisp in minutes. Enjoy them on their own or as a tasty topping that adds both flavor and nutrition

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