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Smoky Roasted Pumpkin Seed Snack Mix

smoky roasted pumpkin seed snack mix - featured image

This smoky roasted pumpkin seed snack mix is crunchy, savory, and packed with deep, smoky flavor. It’s quick to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and is perfect for snacking, parties, or lunchboxes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Rinse the pumpkin seeds in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water (optional but recommended). Pat them very dry with a clean kitchen towel.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, add the dried pumpkin seeds and olive oil. Stir until every seed is lightly coated. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the seeds and toss again until evenly distributed. If using maple syrup or Worcestershire sauce, add it now and mix well.
  5. Spread the seasoned seeds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single, even layer.
  6. Roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring after 10 minutes. The seeds are done when fragrant, golden brown, and make a slight crackling sound when stirred.
  7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack or plate to cool completely. They will crisp up as they cool.
  8. Once cooled, gently break apart any clumps with your hands.

Notes

Watch the seeds closely during the last 5 minutes of roasting to prevent burning. The smoky flavor deepens after a day or two. For best crunch, cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seed snack mix, smoky roasted pumpkin seeds, easy snack recipe, healthy snack, gluten-free snack, vegan snack option