Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar

Name: Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Raw Pumpkin Seeds ((from about 1 medium pumpkin)); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar; 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional, for extra flavor)

BY :

Evelyn Sullivan

Posted On :

September 25, 2025

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar

Dessert

Autumn’s vibrant colors and crisp air bring forth a bounty of delicious ingredients, and among the most delightful are pumpkin seeds. These little gems, often discarded, hold immense potential for a delightful snack or a unique addition to your baking adventures. Today, we’re diving headfirst into a recipe that elevates the humble pumpkin seed to a whole new level of deliciousness: Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar. Imagine the satisfying crunch, the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon, and the subtle sweetness of sugar coating perfectly roasted seeds. This recipe is not just simple and quick to make; it’s utterly irresistible, a perfect treat for cozy evenings, fall gatherings, or a simple afternoon pick-me-up. From the moment you start roasting, the intoxicating fragrance of cinnamon and toasted pumpkin seeds will fill your kitchen, promising a culinary experience that’s both heartwarming and utterly satisfying. Let’s embark on this delicious journey together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar isn’t just another snack recipe; it’s an experience. There are several reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this simple yet incredibly flavorful treat:

Unbelievably Easy: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners and busy individuals alike. You’ll be enjoying these delectable seeds in under 30 minutes.
Incredibly Versatile: These roasted pumpkin seeds aren’t just a standalone snack; they make a fantastic addition to salads, yogurt parfaits, granola, or even trail mix. Their crunchy texture and sweet-spicy flavor profile complement a wide array of dishes.
Deliciously Customizable: Want to experiment with flavors? Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick. You can also swap out the granulated sugar for brown sugar, coconut sugar, or maple sugar for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless!
Healthy and Nutritious: Pumpkin seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals. This snack satisfies your sweet craving while providing a healthy boost.
Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and inexpensive, making this a cost-effective way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying treat. You’re essentially transforming what would be discarded pumpkin scraps into a culinary treasure.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From movie nights to holiday gatherings, these roasted pumpkin seeds are the perfect addition to any occasion. Their irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch make them a crowd-pleaser.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, there are several compelling reasons to give this Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar recipe a try:

Waste Reduction: Instead of discarding pumpkin seeds, you’re transforming them into a delicious and nutritious snack, minimizing food waste.
Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, comforting flavor that perfectly complements the nutty taste of roasted pumpkin seeds.
Satisfying Crunch: The perfectly roasted seeds offer a satisfying crunch that makes this snack irresistible.
Perfect Fall Treat: The warm spices and autumnal flavors make this the ideal snack for the fall season.
Great for Gifting: These homemade roasted pumpkin seeds make a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift for friends and family.
Improves Baking Skills: This recipe is a fantastic way to practice basic baking techniques, such as properly roasting seeds and managing oven temperature, crucial for more complex baking recipes.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

This recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it a perfect option for those who are short on time or have limited baking experience. Let’s get started with the detailed ingredients list:

1 cup raw pumpkin seeds: These are the stars of the show! Ensure they’re clean and dry for optimal roasting. You can easily obtain these by scooping out the seeds from a medium-sized pumpkin. Choose seeds that are plump and free from blemishes.
1 tablespoon olive oil: A high-quality olive oil will impart a richer flavor to your seeds. Avoid using heavily flavored oils, as they may overpower the delicate cinnamon and sugar notes.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Sea salt or kosher salt is preferred for its delicate flavor. This enhances the overall taste of the seeds, bringing out the sweetness and nuttiness.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This classic fall spice provides a warm, comforting aroma and a delightful touch of sweetness.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: This adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the cinnamon and salt. Consider using a coarser granulated sugar for a slightly more textural experience.

Now, let’s talk about the essential tools for recipe success:

Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet will do the trick, providing enough space to spread your seeds in a single layer for even roasting.
Parchment paper: This is crucial for preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze. Simply line your baking sheet with parchment paper before spreading the seeds.
Medium bowl: A medium-sized bowl is perfect for tossing the pumpkin seeds with oil and seasonings.
Kitchen towel: A clean kitchen towel is essential for thoroughly drying the pumpkin seeds, which is critical for even roasting and prevents clumping.
Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor and texture.
Spatula or wooden spoon: This is for gently tossing the seeds while coating them with oil and seasonings, and later for tossing in the sugar.

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients and utensils, let’s proceed with the step-by-step instructions for preparing these delightful Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar:

Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This is a crucial step to prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup. **Always remember to preheat your oven before starting any baking process**.
Prepare the pumpkin seeds: Rinse the pumpkin seeds thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess pumpkin pulp or stringy bits. Then, pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. **Thoroughly drying the seeds is crucial for even roasting and prevents clumping.** Any remaining moisture can result in steaming rather than roasting.
Toss with oil and seasonings: In your medium bowl, gently toss the dried pumpkin seeds with olive oil, salt, and cinnamon. Ensure the seeds are evenly coated. Avoid overcrowding the bowl to ensure even distribution of the seasonings. Use a gentle hand to avoid crushing the seeds.
Spread on baking sheet: Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. **Avoid overcrowding; this ensures even roasting.** If necessary, use two baking sheets to spread the seeds evenly.
Roast the seeds: Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the seeds are golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of cooking time, as they can burn quickly. **The golden-brown color indicates perfect roasting.** Adjust baking time depending on your oven’s temperature; some ovens may require slightly less or more time.
Add sugar: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. While the seeds are still warm, gently toss them with the granulated sugar. The warmth of the seeds will help the sugar melt slightly and adhere to the seeds. Do not add the sugar while the seeds are still hot from the oven; this will lead to burning.
Cool and enjoy: Let the seeds cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. This allows them to crisp up further and prevents the sugar from becoming sticky. Once completely cool, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to elevate your Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar experience:

Spice it up: Experiment with different spices! Add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Sweeten it up: Instead of granulated sugar, try brown sugar, coconut sugar, or maple sugar for a different flavor profile.
Add some zest: A little orange or lemon zest can add a refreshing citrusy note.
Nutty additions: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Go savory: Skip the sugar and cinnamon and instead toss the seeds with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory snack.
Avoid overcrowding: Ensure the seeds are spread in a single layer for even roasting. Overcrowding will lead to unevenly cooked and potentially soggy seeds.
Don’t over-roast: Keep a close eye on the seeds towards the end of the baking time to prevent burning. They can quickly go from perfectly golden brown to burnt.
Proper drying is key: Thoroughly drying the seeds before roasting is absolutely essential to prevent clumping and uneven cooking.

For a delicious and healthy twist, check out this amazing recipe for chewy maple brown sugar cookies on our website!

Nutritional Values and Benefits

Roasted pumpkin seeds are not just delicious; they are packed with nutrients! A one-cup serving of roasted pumpkin seeds (approximately 100g) provides roughly:

Calories: Approximately 550-600 calories (depending on the added sugar and oil)
Protein: Around 30 grams. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
Fat: About 45-50 grams, primarily unsaturated fats which are beneficial for heart health.
Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams.
Fiber: Pumpkin seeds are a good source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
Minerals: They are rich in magnesium, zinc, iron, and manganese, all vital for various bodily functions.

The addition of cinnamon offers further health benefits. Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. It’s a powerful antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage. The small amount of sugar in this recipe adds a touch of sweetness without significantly impacting the overall nutritional profile.

FAQs

How long do roasted pumpkin seeds with cinnamon sugar last?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar will stay fresh and crunchy for approximately one week.

Can I use other types of oil besides olive oil?

Yes, you can experiment with other oils like coconut oil or avocado oil. However, avoid strongly flavored oils as they may overpower the cinnamon and sugar flavors.

What happens if I don’t dry the pumpkin seeds properly?

Improperly dried seeds will likely steam instead of roast, resulting in soggy, unevenly cooked seeds. Thorough drying is essential for achieving the perfect crunch.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that your olive oil is vegan-friendly if you have specific concerns.

Are roasted pumpkin seeds with cinnamon sugar a healthy snack?

Yes, in moderation. Pumpkin seeds are rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals. However, the added sugar does increase the calorie count, so enjoy them as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

This recipe for Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar is a simple yet incredibly rewarding culinary adventure. The delightful crunch, warm spices, and subtle sweetness make these seeds the perfect autumnal snack, a thoughtful gift, or a delicious addition to your favorite fall recipes. Remember the key to success lies in thoroughly drying the pumpkin seeds before roasting and keeping a close watch on them in the oven to avoid burning. Now, go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let the delicious aroma of cinnamon and toasted pumpkin seeds fill your kitchen! Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy baking!

For more delicious fall recipes, check out our website and follow us on Pinterest for more inspiration!