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Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds: Best Easy Air Fryer Recipe

crispy cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds air fryer - featured image

These crispy cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds are made in the air fryer for a quick, easy, and irresistible fall snack. Perfect for pumpkin carving season, they’re a crowd-pleaser that even pumpkin seed skeptics will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh pumpkin seeds
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (163°C) for 3-4 minutes.
  2. Clean the pumpkin seeds: rinse in a colander under cold water, remove large pieces of pumpkin flesh, pat dry with paper towels, and let air dry for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Melt the butter in a small microwave-safe bowl (about 20 seconds). Let cool for a minute.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add vanilla extract if using.
  5. Add the dried pumpkin seeds to the bowl, pour melted butter over them, and stir until every seed is coated.
  6. Transfer the coated seeds to the air fryer basket and spread in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
  7. Air fry at 325°F for 8-10 minutes. At the 4-minute mark, pause and shake the basket vigorously to redistribute the seeds.
  8. Check for doneness: seeds should be golden brown and fragrant. They will continue to crisp as they cool.
  9. Pour the hot seeds onto a plate or parchment paper and spread out to cool completely (at least 10 minutes).
  10. Serve at room temperature or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Notes

For best results, ensure seeds are thoroughly dried before coating. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Let seeds cool completely before eating to achieve maximum crunch. Store in an airtight container at room temperature; do not refrigerate.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds, air fryer pumpkin seeds, crispy pumpkin seeds, fall snack, easy pumpkin seed recipe