Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds are the ultimate autumn snack—crunchy, savory, and surprisingly easy to make. Instead of tossing out those pumpkin seeds after carving jack-o’-lanterns or baking pies, turn them into a high-protein, nutrient-packed treat in under 15 minutes. Using the air fryer not only cuts cooking time in half but also reduces oil usage, resulting in crispier, healthier roasted seeds. If you’re into snacking smart and minimizing waste, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

this recipe

• ✅ Fast & Easy – Ready in 15 minutes or less.
• ✅ Healthier Than Oven-Roasted – Less oil, more crunch.
• ✅ Zero Waste – A smart way to use your pumpkin leftovers.
• ✅ Totally Customizable – Go savory, spicy, or sweet.
• ✅ Great for Gifting – Perfect for fall treat bags or mason jar snacks.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups raw pumpkin seeds (from 1 medium pumpkin)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweet-savory blend)

Instructions

1. Clean seeds: Scoop pumpkin seeds from your pumpkin and separate them from pulp. Rinse thoroughly in a colander.
2. Dry completely: Pat seeds dry with a towel and let air dry for 20–30 minutes. The drier the seeds, the crispier the result.
3. Season: In a bowl, toss seeds with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices. Make sure they’re well coated.
4. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
5. Air fry (part 1): Add seeds to the basket in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes.
6. Shake: Shake basket to redistribute seeds for even crisping.
7. Air fry (part 2): Continue cooking another 5–7 minutes, or until golden and crunchy.
8. Cool: Transfer to a plate to cool. They’ll continue to crisp as they cool.
9. Serve or store: Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for later.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Servings: About 6 (¼ cup per serving)

Nutrition Facts (Per ¼ Cup)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 14g (mostly healthy fats)
• Carbs: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Iron: 2mg
• Magnesium: 150mg
• Zinc: 2mg

Pumpkin seeds are a magnesium powerhouse—great for muscle recovery and energy metabolism!

Tips & Variations

Seasoning Variations:

• 🔥 Spicy: Add extra cayenne or chili powder
• 🍯 Sweet: Cinnamon + brown sugar + maple syrup
• 🧂 Savory: Ranch powder, onion powder, or curry spice
• 🌿 Gourmet: Truffle salt or rosemary & garlic

Pro Tips:

• Don’t skip drying – Moisture leads to chewy seeds, not crispy.
• Shake the basket – Ensures even browning.
• Don’t overcrowd – Cook in batches if needed.
• Adjust seasoning after cooking – Taste and add more spice if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Not drying seeds properly – leads to sogginess
• ❌ Overcrowding the air fryer – prevents even cooking
• ❌ Setting temperature too high – may burn before crisping
• ❌ Under-seasoning – seeds need bold flavors to shine
• ❌ Skipping the shake – uneven roasting and soft spots

Storage Tips

• Room Temp: Store in airtight container for 1–2 weeks
• Fridge: Keeps fresh for up to 1 month
• Freezer: Vacuum-seal or use freezer bag for 3–6 months
• Re-crisp: 2 minutes in air fryer at 300°F to refresh

Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle over salads, soups, or creamy pasta
• Add to granola or yogurt parfaits
• Use as a crunchy topping for pumpkin pie or ice cream
• Gift in decorated jars with ribbon for fall-themed party favors
• Pair with chai tea or apple cider for a cozy snack

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

These air fryer pumpkin seeds are crispy, nutrient-rich, and ready in just 15 minutes. A perfect zero-waste fall snack!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 22 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• – 1½ cups raw pumpkin seeds from 1 medium pumpkin
• – 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• – 1 tsp sea salt
• – ½ tsp garlic powder
• – ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• – ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper optional
• – 1 tsp maple syrup or honey optional

Equipment

• – Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Air fryer
• – Kitchen towel or paper towels

Method

 

1. Clean seeds thoroughly and remove excess pulp.
2. Pat dry and air-dry seeds for 30 minutes.
3. Toss seeds in a bowl with oil and all seasonings.
4. Preheat air fryer to 350°F for 3 minutes.
5. Add seeds in a single layer. Air fry for 5 minutes.
6. Shake basket, then cook another 5–7 minutes until crisp.
7. Let cool before serving or storing.

Notes

– Dry seeds thoroughly before air frying.
– Shake halfway for even crispiness.
– Customize seasonings to your taste.

FAQs

Can I use seeds from any type of pumpkin?
Yes! Both carving pumpkins and sugar pumpkins work well.

Should I remove all the pulp from seeds?
A little pulp is fine and may even boost flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when they’re done?
They’ll turn golden brown and sound crisp when dropped on a plate.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but air fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Can I make this without oil?
You can reduce the oil, but a light coating is key for crispiness.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds are the crunchy, flavorful, guilt-free snack you didn’t know you needed. In just 20 minutes, you can transform a humble pile of pumpkin seeds into a crave-worthy treat that’s high in protein, rich in minerals, and bursting with autumn vibes. Whether you’re keeping it classic or experimenting with seasonings, this recipe makes it easy—and delicious—to reduce waste and snack smarter.

Next time you’re carving pumpkins, don’t toss those seeds. Turn them into your new favorite snack!