Introduction

Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds are a delightful and nutritious snack that is perfect for fall. Combining the warm spices of cinnamon and sugar with crunchy pumpkin seeds creates a treat that is both sweet and savory. This recipe is not only simple but also a great way to utilize leftover pumpkin seeds from your autumn decorations or baking. Whether enjoyed as a snack on their own or sprinkled over salads and oatmeal, these pumpkin seeds are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pumpkin seeds – 2 cups
Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
Granulated sugar – 2 tablespoons
Salt – ¼ teaspoon
Olive oil or melted coconut oil – 1 tablespoon

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 20 minutes
Total Time – 30 minutes
Yield – Approximately 2 cups

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for roasting the pumpkin seeds.

Prepare the Pumpkin Seeds

Remove the pumpkin seeds from a fresh pumpkin, separating them from the pulp. Rinse the seeds under cold water to remove any remaining pumpkin bits. Pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel.

Toss with Oil

In a mixing bowl, combine the cleaned and dried pumpkin seeds with a small amount of oil. Olive oil or melted coconut oil works well. Toss the seeds until they are evenly coated with oil.

Add Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a separate small bowl, mix together granulated sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the oiled pumpkin seeds, and toss until they are evenly coated.

Spread on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the cinnamon-sugar coated pumpkin seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Roast the Seeds

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the pumpkin seeds for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Cool and Serve

Once the seeds are golden brown and fragrant, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed as a snack or used as a topping.

Notes

Storage

Store the roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different spices or sweeteners, such as adding nutmeg or swapping the sugar for maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds make a great snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads, oatmeal, or yogurt.

Cook techniques

Roasting Seeds

To achieve the perfect crunch, roast the pumpkin seeds in the oven. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F until golden brown, usually about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally.

Coating with Cinnamon Sugar

Once the seeds are roasted, toss them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. This will enhance their sweetness and provide a delightful flavor contrast.

Cooling the Seeds

Allow the pumpkin seeds to cool completely after roasting and coating with cinnamon sugar. Cooling helps them become crispier and ensures that the coating sets properly.

Storing Pumpkin Seeds

Store the cooled pumpkin seeds in an airtight container. They can last for several weeks, maintaining their crunch and flavor.

FAQ

Can I use raw pumpkin seeds for this recipe?

Yes, you can use raw pumpkin seeds, but they will require a longer roasting time to achieve the desired crunch.

What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just adjust the roasting time accordingly.

How can I make the seeds spicier?

You can add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon sugar mixture to give the pumpkin seeds a spicy kick.

Are these pumpkin seeds a healthy snack?

Yes, pumpkin seeds are nutritious. They are high in protein, magnesium, and healthy fats, making them a great alternative to processed snacks.

Conclusion

Enjoying cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds is a delicious way to indulge in seasonal flavors while benefiting from the nutritious qualities of pumpkin seeds. This snack is not only simple to prepare but also versatile, making it a perfect addition to various dishes or a standalone treat. Whether you’re enjoying them during a cozy fall evening or sharing them at a gathering, these flavored seeds are sure to satisfy your cravings.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spiced Maple Pumpkin Seeds

Combine pumpkin seeds with maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg for a sweet and spiced variation.

Savory Garlic and Herb Pumpkin Seeds

Toss your pumpkin seeds with olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian herbs for a savory snack option.

Chocolate-Covered Pumpkin Seeds

Dip roasted pumpkin seeds in melted dark chocolate and let them cool for a decadent treat.

Chipotle Lime Pumpkin Seeds

Season pumpkin seeds with lime juice, chipotle powder, and salt for a zesty and smoky flavor profile.

Curry-Spiced Pumpkin Seeds

Mix pumpkin seeds with curry powder, paprika, and a touch of sugar for a unique twist with an Indian flair.