The Perfect Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds, Plus Recipes for Fall Snacking (2024)

Food

Don't toss 'em, roast 'em!

Betty Gold

Betty Gold is the former senior digital food editor at Real Simple.

Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines

and

Grace Elkus

Grace Elkus is a food writer and editor with over a decade of experience in culinary media. Highlights: * Associate food editor at Real Simple, where she developed recipes, wrote food stories, and assisted with styling * Deputy food director at Kitchn, where she and her team were responsible for 100 recipes a month * Currently the content lead for JOKR

Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines

Updated on September 28, 2023

Medically reviewed by

Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN

Medically reviewed byKristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN

Kristy Del Coro is a registered dietitian nutritionist, RDN, and professionally trained chef with more than 10 years of experience in the field of culinary nutrition. Her strong background in nutrition science, sustainable food systems, and culinary education makes her exceptionally qualified to write about food that is good for us and the planet—while not sacrificing flavor.

What You Need:

2 medium pumpkins (about 2 cups seeds)
Large spoon or pumpkin scoop
Colander
Rimmed baking sheet
Seasonings of your choice

How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds

This roasting method for pumpkin seeds turns out a perfect snack every time. Scroll down for our seasoning suggestions.

Step 1: Preheat and Scoop

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F, and scoop out seeds from two medium-sized pumpkins, about 2 cups.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry Seeds

Place seeds in a colander and rinse with cold water, working to separate the seeds from the pumpkin guts, and then pat seeds dry.

Step 3: Initial Bake

Spread seeds on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until dry, about 50 to 60 minutes. Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and raise the oven setting to 350 degrees F.

Step 4: Add Seasoning

Transfer seeds to a bowl, add your choice of seasoning, and then return seeds to the baking sheet.

Step 5: Final Roast

Roast seeds until golden brown, 10 to 15 more minutes.

Seasoning Options

Try one (or all!) of our variations. Add these suggested seasonings after the seeds' initial bake, and then return them to a 350-degree oven for 10 to 15 minutes, tossing occasionally until golden brown.

Warning: You may want to pick up a few more pumpkins.

01of 08

Salted Honey Pumpkin Seeds

The Perfect Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds, Plus Recipes for Fall Snacking (4)

This classic sweet-and-salty combo is highly addictive! Toss seeds with 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, and then stir in 2 tablespoons honey and 1 teaspoon salt.

Before returning the seeds to the baking sheet, line it with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. This helps prevent the honey from sticking.

02of 08

Maple-Mocha Pumpkin Seeds

The Perfect Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds, Plus Recipes for Fall Snacking (5)

Coffee grounds and cocoa powder account for the mocha flavor in this fall-flavored seasoning mix. Toss seeds with 2 tablespoons coconut oil and 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, and then stir in 1 tablespoon coffee grounds, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, ½ tablespoon granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg.

03of 08

Gingerbread Pumpkin Seeds

The Perfect Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds, Plus Recipes for Fall Snacking (6)

This seasoning uses gingerbread spices to amp up a fall snack that's great for Christmas, too. Toss seeds with 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, and then stir in 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, ½ teaspoon allspice, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon ground cloves.

04of 08

Chili-Lime Pumpkin Seeds

The Perfect Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds, Plus Recipes for Fall Snacking (7)

Bring Mexican-inspired flavor to your snack game. Toss seeds with 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, and then stir in 2 tablespoons lime zest, 2 tablespoons freshly-squeezed lime juice, ½ tablespoon chili powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt.

05of 08

Rosemary-Parmesan Pumpkin Seeds

The Perfect Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds, Plus Recipes for Fall Snacking (8)

For this savory seasoning, mix 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary, ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Pour mixture over seeds and toss to coat, and then season with salt and pepper to taste.

06of 08

Curry-Sriracha Pumpkin Seeds

The Perfect Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds, Plus Recipes for Fall Snacking (9)

Try this Asian-inspired flavoring with a spicy kick! Toss seeds with 2 tablespoons Sriracha and 2 tablespoons sesame oil, and then stir in 1 teaspoon curry powder and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

07of 08

Sweet-and-Salty Pumpkin Seeds

The Perfect Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds, Plus Recipes for Fall Snacking (10)

This craveable sweet-and-salty seasoning is reminiscent of cinnamon toast. Toss seeds with 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon.

08of 08

Spiced Pumpkin Seeds

The Perfect Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds, Plus Recipes for Fall Snacking (11)

This spicy snack brings all the flavor but is easy on the heat. Mix 2 tablespoons olive oil with 1 teaspoon cumin and ½ teaspoon celery salt. Pour the mixture over seeds, toss to coat, and then season with salt and pepper to taste.

30 Perfect Pumpkin Recipes You'll Want to Eat All Year Round

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