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Crowd-Pleasing Smoky Spiced Pumpkin Seeds (Easy & Best)

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These smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet pumpkin seeds are the ultimate party snack. With a double-toasting method and a perfect spice blend, they’re incredibly addictive and disappear faster than anything else on the snack table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas, about 10 ounces)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Spread the raw pumpkin seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Roast the seeds for 10 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.
  4. While the seeds roast, make the spice mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and fine sea salt.
  5. Add the olive oil to the spice mixture and stir until it forms a thick paste.
  6. Remove the seeds from the oven and carefully transfer them to the bowl with the spice paste. Toss until every seed is coated.
  7. Spread the coated seeds back onto the baking sheet in a single layer.
  8. Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until deeply golden and fragrant.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet (about 20-30 minutes).
  10. Once completely cool, break apart any large clusters with your fingers. Transfer to an airtight container or serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t skip the first roast—it ensures deep, nutty flavor. Watch the sugar carefully during the last few minutes to prevent burning. Let seeds cool completely for maximum crunch. Seeds actually improve after a day or two as flavors meld. For extra crispy clusters, don’t break apart all the clumps.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin seeds, pepitas, smoky, spicy, snack, party snack, appetizer, easy, gluten-free, vegan

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/crowd-pleasing-smoky-spiced-pumpkin-seeds-easy-and-best/