Hey, foodie friend! So, you’ve carved your pumpkins, scooped out those slimy guts, and now you’re staring at a pile of pumpkin seeds wondering, “What do I do with these?” Don’t toss them! Those little guys are crunchy, nutty, and stupidly versatile—perfect for snacking, topping salads, or even sneaking into desserts. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or spicy, I’ve got you covered with eight easy pumpkin seed recipes that are so good, you’ll be hooked. Ready to turn those seeds into your new obsession? Let’s get roasting! 😄
1. Classic Salty Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Why It’s Awesome: Nothing beats the OG. These crispy, salty seeds are the ultimate no-fuss snack for movie nights or lazy afternoons.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds, rinsed and dried
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread those pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt evenly. Toss to coat.
- Roast for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and crunchy.
- Let cool slightly before devouring.
Why You’ll Love It
These are the potato chips of the seed world—simple, salty, and impossible to stop eating. Pro tip: Don’t skip the drying step; soggy seeds are a sad story. I learned that the hard way when I rushed it once. Never again.
2. Spicy Sriracha Pumpkin Seeds
Why It’s Awesome: Got a thing for heat? These fiery seeds bring just the right kick to wake up your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds, rinsed and dried
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sriracha
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet.
- Mix olive oil, sriracha, smoked paprika, and salt in a bowl. Toss seeds in the spicy goodness.
- Spread evenly and roast for 15–18 minutes, stirring once.
- Cool slightly and brace for the heat.
Why You’ll Love It
The sriracha gives a zesty burn that’s addictive without torching your mouth. I once made these for a game night, and they vanished faster than the dip. Adjust the sriracha if you’re not a spice warrior.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds
Why It’s Awesome: Think churros, but crunchier and healthier. These sweet seeds are dessert disguised as a snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds, rinsed and dried
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Toss pumpkin seeds with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Spread evenly and roast for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Cool until crispy and sweet.
Why You’ll Love It
These are like autumn in a bite—warm, cozy, and just sweet enough. I tried swapping brown sugar for maple syrup once, and it was too sticky. Stick with sugar for that perfect crunch.
4. Garlic Parmesan Pumpkin Seeds
Why It’s Awesome: Cheesy, garlicky, and oh-so-savory. These seeds are basically pizza in snack form.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds, rinsed and dried
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet.
- Toss with olive oil, Parmesan, garlic powder, and salt.
- Roast for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden.
- Let cool slightly before munching.
Why You’ll Love It
Who doesn’t love the Parmesan-garlic combo? These are perfect for sprinkling on salads or soups, but honestly, I eat them straight from the pan. They’re that good.
5. Pumpkin Seed Trail Mix
Why It’s Awesome: This grab-and-go mix is your new go-to for hikes, road trips, or desk snacking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted pumpkin seeds (use the Classic Salty recipe above)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips
- ½ cup almonds
- ¼ cup coconut flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Roast pumpkin seeds using the Classic Salty recipe. Let cool.
- Toss cooled seeds with cranberries, chocolate chips, almonds, and coconut flakes in a bowl.
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Snack away!
Why You’ll Love It
The sweet-salty-crunchy combo is a total winner. I keep a jar of this on my desk, and it saves me from vending machine regrets. Pro tip: Swap cranberries for dried cherries if you’re feeling fancy.
6. Honey Sriracha Pumpkin Seeds
Why It’s Awesome: Sweet meets heat in this sticky, spicy snack that’s dangerously munchable.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds, rinsed and dried
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sriracha
- ½ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Mix honey, sriracha, and salt in a bowl. Toss pumpkin seeds to coat.
- Spread evenly and roast for 15–18 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Cool completely to avoid stickiness.
Why You’ll Love It
The honey–sriracha balance is pure magic—sweet enough to tempt you, spicy enough to keep it interesting. I burned a batch once by not stirring. Don’t be me. Stir!
7. Pumpkin Seed Pesto
Why It’s Awesome: This nutty, vibrant pesto is a game-changer for pasta, toast, or dipping. Who needs pine nuts?
Ingredients
- ½ cup roasted pumpkin seeds (Classic Salty recipe works)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 garlic clove
- ½ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pulse pumpkin seeds, basil, Parmesan, and garlic in a food processor until finely chopped.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while pulsing until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper. Adjust to taste.
- Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love It
This pesto is cheaper than pine nut versions and just as delicious. I slather it on toast with avocado—game over. FYI, don’t skimp on the basil; it’s the star.
8. Chocolate-Coated Pumpkin Seeds
Why It’s Awesome: Crunchy seeds meet melty chocolate. It’s like candy, but you can pretend it’s healthy. 😉
Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted pumpkin seeds (Classic Salty recipe)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- ½ tsp sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in pumpkin seeds until fully coated.
- Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with sea salt if you’re feeling extra.
- Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes until set. Break into pieces.
Why You’ll Love It
These are my kryptonite. The chocolate-seed crunch is so satisfying, and the optional salt adds a fancy touch. I made these for a party once, and they were gone in minutes.
Related Recipes:
- Pineapple Coconut Smoothie Bowl | Tropical & Refreshing Breakfast
- Grapes Rolled in Cream | Simple & Refreshing Sweet Treat
- Whipped Chocolate Mousse Cups | Light & Creamy Dessert Recipe
Wrapping It Up
There you go—eight stupidly addictive pumpkin seed recipes that’ll make you the hero of your kitchen. From salty classics to sweet treats and even a fancy pesto, these recipes are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Which one’s calling your name? Try them all and let me know which becomes your new obsession. Happy snacking!
