Perfectly Crunchy Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds – Quick & Easy!
Pumpkin season is upon us, and if you’re carving pumpkins or cooking with them, don’t throw out those seeds! Air fryer pumpkin seeds are not only a delicious snack, but they’re also packed with nutrients and come out perfectly crunchy with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can whip up a batch of these tasty seeds that are ideal for munching. Here’s how to make them!
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes!
- Healthy Snack: Pumpkin seeds are high in protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
- Customizable Flavors: Whether you like them salty, spicy, or sweet, the air fryer brings out the best in every seasoning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this crunchy and healthy snack, gather these simple ingredients:
- Pumpkin seeds (from one medium-sized pumpkin)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter
- Salt to taste
- Optional seasonings (cinnamon and sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, or smoked paprika)
Pro Tip: Fresh pumpkin seeds are best for this recipe, but you can use store-bought raw pumpkin seeds as well if you don’t have fresh ones on hand.
How to Prepare Pumpkin Seeds for Air Frying
Step 1: Clean the Seeds
Once you’ve scooped out the pumpkin seeds, remove as much pumpkin flesh as possible. Place the seeds in a colander, rinse thoroughly with water, and pat them dry with a towel. The drier the seeds, the crunchier they’ll be!
Pro Tip: After drying, let the seeds sit out on a paper towel for an extra 10-15 minutes. This will help them become even crispier in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season the Seeds
- Place the cleaned, dried seeds in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with salt.
- Add any additional seasonings you like, and toss until the seeds are evenly coated.
Seasoning Ideas:
- For a savory twist, try garlic powder and smoked paprika.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- For a sweet treat, sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on the seeds before air frying.
How to Air Fry Pumpkin Seeds
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating helps the seeds cook evenly and prevents them from sticking.
Step 2: Air Fry the Seeds
- Spread the seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping, as this ensures each seed cooks evenly.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on the seeds, as cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model.
Pro Tip: If you want extra-crispy seeds, cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes. Be cautious, though – they can burn quickly.
How to Serve and Store Your Pumpkin Seeds
Let the seeds cool slightly before eating; they’ll crisp up even more as they cool. Serve them as a snack, sprinkle them on salads, or use them as a topping for soups.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They’ll stay crunchy and delicious for days!
FAQs
Can I make these seeds in advance? Absolutely! These pumpkin seeds are great to prepare ahead, and they keep well in an airtight container for about a week.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can still make pumpkin seeds in the oven! Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and crunchy.
