Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when simple ingredients come together to create something truly delightful, and these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds are a perfect example. Imagine perfectly roasted seeds, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite, coated in a warm, sweet embrace of cinnamon and sugar. They’re wonderfully golden and aromatic, making them an irresistible treat any time of year, but especially during the cozy autumn months.

These little gems are incredibly versatile – I love them as a healthy snack to curb those afternoon cravings, or sprinkled over yogurt and oatmeal for a delightful texture boost. They store beautifully, making them ideal for a quick grab-and-go option when you’re rushing out the door. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up those pumpkin seeds after carving jack-o’-lanterns.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds because they are:

• Incredibly Easy Minimal prep for maximum flavor.
• Quick to Make Perfect for busy schedules.
• Deliciously Versatile Great for snacking or as a topping.
• Naturally Satisfying A healthier alternative to processed snacks.
• A Taste of Comfort The cinnamon and sugar combination is pure bliss.

Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds Ingredients

The magic of these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds lies in their simplicity, transforming humble pumpkin seeds into a wonderfully sweet and spiced treat. The combination of warm spices and a touch of sweetness creates an irresistible aroma and flavor profile. You’ll find the exact measurements in the printable recipe card below.

• Pumpkin Seeds: These are the stars, offering a delightful crunch and healthy nutrients. Proper drying is key for crispiness in these roasted pumpkin seeds.
• Salted Butter (or Coconut Oil): This acts as the binder. It helps the spices stick beautifully to the seeds, adding rich flavor. Coconut oil is a great dairy-free swap.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: It enhances the sweetness. It also adds a warm, comforting depth to the overall taste.
• Granulated Sugar: This provides the classic sweetness. It pairs perfectly with the warm cinnamon spice.
• Ground Cinnamon: It’s the quintessential fall spice. It brings warmth and its signature flavor.
• Sea Salt: This balances the sweetness. It also highlights the other flavors, adding a nice savory touch.

Substitutions and Tips

For a dairy-free option, coconut oil is a fantastic substitute for butter. If you prefer a less sweet treat, feel free to reduce the sugar slightly. For an extra kick, a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can be added to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Make sure your seeds are completely dry before baking; this is key to achieving that perfect crunch for your cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds

Step 1: Prepare Your Pumpkin Seeds

Start by rinsing your pumpkin seeds well. Remove any bits of pumpkin matter. Lay them in a single layer on paper towels.

Place these on a baking sheet. Let them air dry for a full 24 hours. This is super important for crispy seeds!

Change the paper towels halfway through. Give the seeds a gentle stir too. This ensures even drying for your roasted pumpkin seeds.

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Go ahead and preheat your oven. Set it to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a large baking pan. This prevents sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Grab a small bowl. Combine the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re nicely blended. This is your flavor coating.

Step 4: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

Melt the butter in a small bowl. You can use the microwave or stovetop. Stir in the vanilla extract until it’s all incorporated.

Step 5: Coat the Seeds

Add the melted butter and vanilla mixture. Pour it over your dried pumpkin seeds. Toss them gently. Make sure each seed is coated.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

Now, pour the cinnamon-sugar blend. Add it to the butter-coated seeds. Mix everything thoroughly. Coat them well with this sweet blend.

Step 7: Spread for Roasting

Spread the coated seeds onto your prepared baking pan. Keep them in a single, even layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps them roast evenly.

Step 8: Bake and Stir

Bake for about 25 to 35 minutes. Stir them every 10 minutes while baking. This ensures consistent browning. It also prevents burning.

Step 9: Test for Doneness

How do you know they’re ready? Take out a few to test. Let them cool for a minute. They should feel totally crispy. If still soft, bake a bit longer. Check them periodically.

How to Store Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds

Once your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds are totally cooled, store them in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delightfully crunchy for about a week. Skip the fridge; moisture ruins their crispiness. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Their best texture is when they’re freshly made, though!

Tips for Success

• Ensure pumpkin seeds are completely dry before baking for maximum crispiness. This is a game-changer for that delightful crunch.
• Don’t skip stirring the seeds every 10 minutes while baking. Even browning on your roasted pumpkin seeds is key.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar. Make them perfect for your personal preference.
• Cool seeds completely on the baking sheet before storing. This helps maintain their wonderful crunch.
• Always taste a cooled seed. Check for crispness before removing from the oven.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds, you won’t need much! Having the right kitchen tools makes the process smooth. Here’s what I usually grab:

• A sturdy baking sheet for roasting.
• Paper towels are essential for drying the seeds. Clean kitchen towels work too.
• Small bowls are perfect for mixing your dry and wet ingredients.
• Measuring spoons and cups ensure you get the spice balance just right.
• A spatula or spoon helps with mixing and stirring the seeds.
• An optional microwave-safe bowl makes melting butter super quick.

Serving Suggestions

These crunchy treats are so versatile. Enjoy them as a simple, healthy snack all by themselves. They’re also terrific sprinkled over yogurt or creamy cottage cheese. Try them on top of your morning oatmeal or granola for added texture. They make a wonderful addition to salads, too, offering a sweet crunch. For a cozy fall treat, serve them alongside a warm mug of apple cider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! These roasted pumpkin seeds are perfect for making ahead. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay delicious for up to a week. They are a fantastic snack to have readily available.

What if I don’t have 24 hours to dry the pumpkin seeds?

While 24 hours of drying is ideal for maximum crispiness, you can speed up the process. After rinsing, spread the seeds on a baking sheet. Bake them in a very low oven (around 200°F/95°C) for about 30-45 minutes. Stir them occasionally until they feel dry to the touch. Then, proceed with the recipe.

Can I use a different type of sugar for these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds?

You can experiment with different sugars! Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel note. However, it might make the seeds slightly less crispy due to its moisture. Coconut sugar is another delicious option. It offers a slightly different flavor profile too.

How do I ensure my seeds are evenly coated with the cinnamon sugar mixture?

The key is coating the seeds with melted butter and vanilla first. This creates a sticky surface. The dry cinnamon sugar mixture will then adhere well. Mixing gently but thoroughly helps ensure an even coating on all your pumpkin seeds.

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