Spicy Pumpkin Seeds are a delicious and addictive snack that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. When carving pumpkins for Halloween or preparing pumpkin dishes, don’t discard those seeds! Instead, roast them with a blend of flavorful spices to create a crunchy, savory, and slightly fiery treat. These seasoned pumpkin seeds are a fantastic way to make the most of the entire pumpkin and add a little excitement to your snacking experience. Whether you serve them during fall gatherings or simply enjoy them as a delightful snack, Spicy Pumpkin Seeds are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

The tradition of roasting pumpkin seeds can be traced back thousands of years. Indigenous peoples in North and Central America are believed to have been roasting pumpkin seeds long before the arrival of Europeans. Pumpkins, a type of winter squash, were a significant part of their diet, and they used every part of the pumpkin, including the seeds.

The custom of roasting pumpkin seeds continued through generations and found its way into various culinary practices. In Mexican cuisine, roasted pumpkin seeds, known as “pepitas,” have been a popular ingredient in a wide range of dishes, from sauces to salads. Over time, the tradition of roasting pumpkin seeds spread to other parts of the world, with different cultures adding their unique flavors and seasonings to create a variety of seed snacks.

Today, Spicy Pumpkin Seeds are enjoyed globally, especially during the fall season. With their satisfying crunch and zesty kick, these seeds have become a delightful autumnal treat loved by many.

PREP: 10 MIN.

BAKE: 45 MIN. + COOLING

MAKES: 2 CUPS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups fresh pumpkin seeds
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon hot pepper sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a small bowl, toss the fresh pumpkin seeds with canola oil, Worcestershire sauce, and hot pepper sauce. Ensure the seeds are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
2. In a separate bowl, combine salt, paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper to create the spicy seasoning blend.
3. Sprinkle the spicy seasoning blend over the coated pumpkin seeds, tossing them to ensure even distribution and full coverage.
4. Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with foil and grease the foil to prevent sticking.
5. Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds evenly in the prepared baking pan.
6. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
7. Bake the pumpkin seeds, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until they are lightly browned and dry, stirring them occasionally for even roasting.
8. Allow the roasted Spicy Pumpkin Seeds to cool completely.
9. Store the cooled pumpkin seeds in an airtight container to maintain their crispness and flavors.
10. Now you have a delightful batch of Spicy Pumpkin Seeds ready to enjoy as a snack or to share with family and friends during the fall season!