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Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds: Easy Kid-Approved Snack

cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds - featured image

These Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds are a crunchy, sweet, and irresistible snack that turns a pantry afterthought into the star of the show. Perfect for last-minute bake sales, after-school munchies, or any occasion, this easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas, about 4 ounces)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of nutmeg or allspice (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the raw pumpkin seeds and boil for 10 minutes. Drain in a colander and pat dry with a clean towel.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is mostly dissolved. If using vanilla extract, add it now.
  4. Add the boiled and dried pumpkin seeds to the bowl. Toss with a spatula until every seed is evenly coated.
  5. Spread the coated seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overlapping.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the seeds are deep golden brown and fragrant.
  7. Let the seeds cool completely on the baking sheet (about 15-20 minutes) before serving. They will crisp up as they cool.

Notes

Boiling the seeds before roasting is key for extra crunch. Let seeds cool completely to achieve maximum crispiness. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter. For a lower-sugar version, reduce sugar to 1 tablespoon and add a pinch of stevia. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds, roasted pumpkin seeds, easy snack, kid-approved, fall snack, healthy snack, gluten-free, dairy-free option