If you’re looking for a crunchy, flavorful snack that’s easy to make and perfect for autumn vibes or anytime munching, this Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe is going to be your new best friend. With just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, you can transform plain pumpkin seeds into a perfectly roasted, savory treat with a hint of garlic and butter. The air fryer works magic, giving you crispy seeds without the mess and fuss of oven roasting. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never want store-bought pumpkin seeds again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this recipe, and each one plays a crucial role in building that irresistible flavor and texture. From the natural earthiness of pumpkin seeds to the cozy warmth of garlic and butter, these ingredients come together beautifully to create a snack that’s both nutritious and delicious.
- 1 cup Pumpkin seeds: The star of the dish, fresh and full of nutrients, ready to get crispy.
- 1 1/2 tsp Butter (or olive oil): Adds a rich, buttery flavor and helps the spices stick for even coating.
- ¼ tsp Garlic powder: Gives a subtle savory punch that pairs wonderfully with the seeds.
- ¼ tsp Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the natural sweetness of the seeds.
- ⅛ tsp Black Pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the seasoning mix.
How to Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
Step 1: Clean the Pumpkin
Start by slicing the top off your pumpkin with a sharp knife, carefully cutting a circle around the stem. Scoop out the pulp and seeds with a spoon and place them into a large bowl of water. This soaking step makes it easier to separate the seeds cleanly from the pumpkin guts.
Step 2: Clean the Seeds
Next, separate the seeds from the pulp using your hands, then transfer the seeds to a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Removing all the pumpkin strings ensures a crispier final result and an overall cleaner flavor.
Step 3: Dry the Seeds
Pat the seeds dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels until completely dry. This is a crucial step because moisture can cause the seeds to steam instead of roast, leading to less crunch.
Step 4: Season the Seeds
Place the dried pumpkin seeds in a bowl and drizzle with melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the seeds, then toss well to make sure every seed is evenly coated with flavor.
Step 5: Air Fry the Seeds
Spread the seeds out in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 15 minutes. Halfway through, give the basket a good shake to move the seeds around and promote even roasting. The air fryer is fantastic here because it crisps the seeds quickly without the need for added oil.
Step 6: Check for Crispness
After cooking, check your seeds for crunchiness. If they’re not quite as crisp as you’d like, air fry for another 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely so they don’t burn. You want that perfect golden-brown color and satisfying snap when you bite into them.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once done, let the pumpkin seeds cool down a bit so they firm up further. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then grab a handful and enjoy your homemade, crunchy snack that’s bursting with flavor and far healthier than many store-bought alternatives.
How to Serve Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
Garnishes
While these pumpkin seeds taste amazing all on their own, you can sprinkle them with a little extra flaky sea salt or a pinch of smoked paprika for an added layer of complexity. A drizzle of honey after air frying also creates a sweet and savory contrast that is irresistible!
Side Dishes
These crispy nuggets pair wonderfully with cozy soups, fresh salads, or even as a crunchy topping over roasted vegetables. Adding them to a fall-themed grain bowl can bring a delightful texture and flavor boost that everyone will appreciate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the seeds in mini rustic paper cones or small bowls lined with parchment paper. They also make fantastic party snacks placed alongside a cheese platter, offering a unique, homemade touch that sparks compliments and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe, store them in an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely. Kept at room temperature, they stay crisp and tasty for about a week, making them perfect for snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
Freezing pumpkin seeds isn’t generally recommended as it can alter their texture and cause sogginess when thawed. It’s better to enjoy them fresh or keep them stored in a cool, dry place for that perfect crunch every time.
Reheating
If you want to refresh your pumpkin seeds and bring back some crispness, pop them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This quick warm-up will restore that freshly roasted texture wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Absolutely! Olive oil works just as well, offering a slightly different but delicious flavor. It’s a great option for those seeking a dairy-free or vegan version of this Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe.
How do I know when the pumpkin seeds are done?
You’ll want the seeds to be golden brown and crisp to the touch. They should have a firm snap when bitten, not be soft or chewy. The air fryer’s timer and occasional stirring help you achieve this perfect texture.
Can I add other seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cayenne pepper for heat, cinnamon and sugar for sweetness, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The recipe is very forgiving and easy to customize.
Is it necessary to soak the seeds in water?
Soaking helps loosen the pumpkin pulp and makes cleaning the seeds easier, but if you’ve bought already cleaned seeds, you can skip this step and start at seasoning and drying.
How long do cooked pumpkin seeds last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your air-fried pumpkin seeds can last up to a week without losing their crunch or flavor, making them a fantastic batch snack to prepare in advance.
Final Thoughts
Making your own snack with this Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe is not only satisfying but also incredibly simple and rewarding. It’s a wonderful way to use every part of your pumpkin, and the outcome is a delicious, healthy treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo. Give this recipe a try and watch how a humble seed turns into a favorite crunchy delight you’ll keep coming back to season after season!
Print
Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/4 cups of roasted pumpkin seeds
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious recipe to make crispy and flavorful pumpkin seeds using an air fryer. Perfect for a healthy snack, these air-fried pumpkin seeds are seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, offering a crunchy treat with minimal effort and time.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup Pumpkin seeds
- 1 1/2 tsp Butter (or olive oil)
- ¼ tsp Garlic powder
- ¼ tsp Salt
- ⅛ tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- Clean the Pumpkin: Remove the top of the pumpkin by cutting a circle around the stem with a sharp knife. Use a spoon to scrape out the pulp and seeds into a bowl filled with water to make separating easier.
- Clean the Seeds: Separate the seeds from the pulp under water, then rinse them thoroughly in a colander with cold water to remove any remaining bits.
- Dry the Seeds: Ensure the pumpkin seeds are completely dry before seasoning, as moisture will prevent crisping during cooking.
- Season the Seeds: Transfer the dried seeds to a bowl and add melted butter (or olive oil), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Air Fry the Seeds: Spread the seeds in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even roasting.
- Check Crispness: Once done, test the seeds for desired crispiness. If necessary, air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the seeds to cool before adjusting seasoning to taste. Enjoy your crunchy pumpkin seed snack!
Notes
- Make sure seeds are completely dry to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Adjust seasoning amounts based on personal preference.
- Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Store leftover seeds in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast the seeds in an oven at 300°F for about 20-25 minutes.
