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Easy Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds: Light & Crispy

air fryer pumpkin seeds - featured image

Learn how to make the lightest, crispiest air fryer pumpkin seeds with a simple boiling trick. This quick and easy snack is perfectly seasoned and ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh pumpkin seeds (about 4 ounces)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more for boiling)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Optional: cayenne pepper, onion powder, or cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Clean the seeds: Separate seeds from pumpkin guts, rinse in a colander under cold water, and pick out any large pieces of pulp.
  2. Boil the seeds: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a rolling boil. Add the pumpkin seeds and boil for exactly 10 minutes.
  3. Drain and dry: Drain the seeds in a colander and spread them out on a clean kitchen towel. Pat them as dry as possible and let them air-dry for a few minutes.
  4. Season the seeds: Transfer the dried seeds to a mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Toss until evenly coated.
  5. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for about 3 minutes.
  6. Air fry the seeds: Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F for 8 minutes, then shake the basket and cook for another 2 minutes, or until golden brown and they sound hollow when shaken.
  7. Cool and enjoy: Transfer the seeds to a plate or paper towel-lined bowl to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Boiling the seeds is crucial for a light, airy texture. Dry the seeds thoroughly before seasoning to prevent steaming. Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model. Seeds will continue to crisp as they cool.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pumpkin seeds, crispy pumpkin seeds, light pumpkin seeds, easy pumpkin seeds, healthy snack, fall recipe