How to Make Crunchy Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds: A Simple Guide
When fall arrives, pumpkins take center stage in kitchens everywhere. Carving pumpkins for Halloween is a beloved tradition, but what do you do with all those seeds you scoop out? Instead of tossing them, why not turn them into a delicious snack? Crunchy cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds offer a perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and crunchy, making them an irresistible treat for chilly autumn afternoons. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making these delightful snacks at home using simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of pumpkin seeds (cleaned and dried)
- 1 tablespoon of melted butter or coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Before we dive into the cooking process, here’s a quick tip: Cleaning pumpkin seeds can be a bit sticky and tricky. After scooping them out of the pumpkin, place them in a colander and run them under cold water. Use your fingers to separate the seeds from the stringy flesh. For best results, lay the cleaned seeds on a kitchen towel and let them dry overnight.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process:
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Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow method helps the pumpkin seeds get crunchy without burning.
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Season the Seeds: In a medium-sized bowl, toss the cleaned and dried pumpkin seeds with the melted butter or coconut oil. Make sure all the seeds are evenly coated. In a small separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this sweet and spicy mix over the buttered seeds and toss again until well coated.
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Spread on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleaning or use a lightly greased baking pan. Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on the sheet. It’s crucial to have them in a single layer so they bake evenly and get that perfect crunch.
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Bake with Care: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 to 60 minutes. The key to perfectly crispy seeds is patience – low and slow is the way to go. Every 15 minutes, stir the seeds to ensure they are baking evenly. Watching them closely towards the end will prevent them from over-browning or burning.
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Cool and Enjoy: Once the seeds are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving dish. As they cool, they’ll get even crunchier. Once cool, it’s time to enjoy your homemade crunchy cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds!
Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions:
While the classic cinnamon sugar variation is delicious, feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Pumpkin seeds are incredibly versatile, so you can adjust the recipe to cater to your taste buds. Love a little heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar mix. Prefer something more savory? Try garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and a touch of black pepper instead of the sugar and cinnamon.
Crunchy cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds are a fantastic snack on their own, but you can also use them to add texture and flavor to other dishes. Sprinkle them over your morning yogurt, add them to your favorite fall salad for a crunchy element, or use them as a topping for pumpkin soup. The possibilities are endless!
Closing Thoughts:
Making crunchy cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds is a simple and enjoyable way to use every part of your carved pumpkins. Not only do you get a delicious snack out of it, but it’s also a great activity to do with kids or friends. Plus, pumpkin seeds are packed with nutrients, making them a guilt-free treat you can enjoy throughout the fall season.
Remember, the key to perfect pumpkin seeds is patience. Don’t rush the baking process, and you’ll be rewarded with a sweet and crunchy snack that embodies the essence of fall. Happy snacking!