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Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds: Easy 15-Minute Snack

cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds - featured image

These crispy cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds are a quick and easy snack that’s perfect for fall gatherings. With a candy-like crunch and a sweet-salty coating, they’re dangerously addictive and ready in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) fresh pumpkin seeds or pepitas
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Seeds: If using fresh pumpkin seeds, rinse them in a colander under cold water, removing any pulp. Pat them extremely dry with paper towels and let air dry for 5 minutes if possible.
  2. Dry Toast the Seeds: Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the dry pumpkin seeds in a single layer. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until they start to pop and turn golden brown.
  3. Make the Glaze: While seeds toast, mix sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Have vanilla extract ready if using.
  4. Add the Butter and Coat: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour melted butter over toasted seeds and stir quickly. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over seeds. Add vanilla extract if using. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until sugar melts and seeds are glossy.
  5. Spread and Cool: Immediately pour seeds onto a baking sheet or large plate in a single layer. Sprinkle with extra flaky sea salt if desired. Let cool completely for at least 10 minutes to crisp up.
  6. Break Apart and Serve: Once cool, break apart any clusters with your fingers. Transfer to a serving bowl.

Notes

The key to crispy seeds is dry-toasting them first before adding butter and sugar. Do not skip the cooling step—they crisp up as they cool. For best results, use fresh cinnamon and stir constantly to prevent burning. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seeds, cinnamon sugar, crispy snack, fall recipe, Halloween snack, easy snack, 15-minute recipe