Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe: Crispy in 10 Minutes!

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy snack, these air fryer pumpkin seeds are a must-try! Perfectly crispy and lightly seasoned, these seeds make the most of any leftover pumpkin seeds after carving. Ready in just minutes, they’re a crunchy treat that’s both nutritious and addictive!

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

• Quick and Easy: This recipe only takes a few minutes in the air fryer, making it a fast way to enjoy fresh, roasted pumpkin seeds without the wait.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Pumpkin seeds are packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, making them a wholesome snack option.
• Customizable Seasoning: Whether you like them spicy with chili powder or simple with salt, you can easily adjust the seasonings to fit your taste.
• Great Use of Leftovers: Instead of tossing out pumpkin seeds from your carving session, transform them into a tasty treat.
• Super Addictive Crunch: The air fryer creates an unbeatable crunch that makes these seeds irresistibly snackable!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

• Pumpkin Seeds – The star of the show! Fresh pumpkin seeds add a delicious, earthy flavor.
• Olive Oil – Helps the seasoning stick to the seeds and adds a touch of healthy fat.
• Chili Powder – Gives a bit of spice, but you can swap this for any seasoning you prefer, like salt, pepper, or garlic powder.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

• Air Fryer – Essential for getting that perfect crunchy texture in minutes.
• Colander – To rinse the pumpkin seeds and remove any remaining pumpkin flesh.
• Paper Towels – Used to pat the seeds dry, which helps them roast evenly.
• Spatula – Handy for stirring the seeds and ensuring they don’t stick together.
• Bowl – For tossing the seeds with oil and seasoning.
• Measuring Spoons – To measure out the oil and seasoning for consistent flavor.

How To Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

• Start by rinsing the pumpkin seeds in a colander to get rid of any leftover pumpkin flesh.
• Pat the seeds dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible; this helps them get crispy.
• In a bowl, toss the seeds with a little olive oil until they’re evenly coated.
• Sprinkle your choice of seasoning, like chili powder, and mix until the seeds are well-seasoned.
• Spread the seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket so they cook evenly.
• Set the air fryer to 370°F and cook for 7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even roasting.
• Check the seeds for crunchiness when the timer ends; if you prefer them crispier, air fry for an additional 1–2 minutes.
• Pour the seeds into a bowl, picking out any that may have fallen to the bottom of the air fryer basket, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these crunchy air fryer pumpkin seeds as a simple, healthy snack on their own.
• Sprinkle them over shredded brussel sprout salad for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
• Add them to a homemade trail mix with nuts and dried fruit like apples, blueberries, or mandarin for a filling snack.
• Use them as a topping for soups, especially creamy varieties like pumpkin or chickpea soup.
• Pack them in small containers as an on-the-go snack that’s perfect for busy days.

Tips For Success

• Dry Thoroughly: After rinsing, make sure to dry the pumpkin seeds well with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent them from crisping up properly in the air fryer.
• Single Layer for Best Results: Spread the seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Crowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and less crunch.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to customize! Try different spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist.
• Shake Halfway: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking ensures the seeds roast evenly and helps prevent them from sticking together.
• Check for Crunchiness: Cooking time can vary slightly depending on seed size. After the initial cook time, check a seed for crispiness and add another 1–2 minutes if needed to reach your desired texture.
• Watch for Small Seeds: Smaller seeds may roast faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Variations And Substitutions

• Spicy Pumpkin Seeds: For those who love a little heat, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with chili powder. The extra kick makes these seeds a fiery and flavorful snack.
• Sweet and Salty: Try a sweet version by mixing a little cinnamon and sugar with a pinch of salt. The combination creates a lightly caramelized coating on the seeds that’s both sweet and savory.
• Garlic and Herb: Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian herbs, like oregano and rosemary, on the seeds. This version adds a savory, aromatic touch that’s perfect for a herby snack.
• Smoky BBQ: Toss the seeds with smoked paprika and a hint of brown sugar for a smoky BBQ flavor that brings out the natural nuttiness of the seeds.
• Low Oil Option: If you want to reduce oil, use a spritz of cooking spray instead of olive oil. This still helps the seasoning stick without adding much fat.
• Salt-Free Option: For a low-sodium snack, omit the salt entirely and focus on flavorful spices like cumin or coriander for a tasty alternative.
• Keto-Friendly: Use seasonings without sugar, like garlic powder, paprika, and salt, to keep this snack keto-compliant.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Allow the pumpkin seeds to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch, and keep them at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to one week.
• Reheating: If the seeds start to lose their crispiness, you can reheat them in the air fryer. Place them in a single layer in the basket and air fry at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to restore their crunch.
• Freezing Option: For longer storage, you can freeze roasted pumpkin seeds in a sealed container. Thaw at room temperature and re-crisp them in the air fryer as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with any neutral oil like avocado or vegetable oil. Just a small amount is needed to help the seasonings adhere to the seeds.

Do I need to remove the pumpkin seed shells before roasting?

No, you don’t need to remove the shells. Roasting with the shells adds extra fiber, and they’re perfectly edible and crunchy. If you prefer seed kernels, you can remove the shells, but it’s more time-consuming.

How can I make these pumpkin seeds spicier?

To increase the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the chili powder. Adjust to your preference and taste as you go.

Why are my pumpkin seeds not crunchy?

If your seeds aren’t crunchy, they might still have too much moisture. Make sure they’re dried well before seasoning, and air fry in a single layer. You can also add 1-2 extra minutes in the air fryer if they need more time to crisp up.

Can I make these seeds in the oven instead of an air fryer?

Absolutely! To roast in the oven, spread the seasoned seeds on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. They’ll still be delicious, though they may take a bit longer to reach maximum crunch.

How long will these roasted pumpkin seeds stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them and re-crisp them as needed.

Other Easy Pumpkin Recipes

Easy Pumpkin Muffins With Cake Mix (2 Ingredients): These soft, flavorful pumpkin muffins come together with just a can of pumpkin and a box of cake mix for the simplest fall treat!

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Oatmeal Bake (No Refined Sugar): This wholesome pumpkin oatmeal bake is gluten-free and naturally sweetened, making it a cozy, healthy breakfast option.

Quick Instant Pot Pumpkin Bread: Moist and spiced to perfection, this Instant Pot pumpkin bread is a quick, no-fuss way to enjoy a classic autumn dessert.

Instant Pot Pumpkin Cheesecake (Creamy and Easy): This creamy, rich pumpkin cheesecake made in the Instant Pot is the ultimate dessert for pumpkin lovers.

Creamy Instant Pot Pumpkin Soup Recipe: Silky and flavorful, this creamy pumpkin soup made in the Instant Pot is an effortless comfort food favorite.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars – Simple Pumpkin Squares: These pumpkin bars are packed with chocolate chips and fall spices, creating easy-to-make, deliciously soft squares.

Instant Pot Whole Pumpkin (How To Cook Pumpkin Easily): Learn how to cook a whole pumpkin in the Instant Pot quickly, making it perfect for fresh purées and other recipes.

More Air Fryer Recipes

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• Air Fryer Beets (Perfectly Roasted Every Time)
• Air Fryer Cornish Game Hens Recipe