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Baked Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds: Easy Fall Recipe

baked cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds - featured image

These baked cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds are a simple, no-boil fall snack that delivers a perfect crunchy, sweet coating. Made with pantry staples, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat that tastes like autumn in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups fresh pumpkin seeds (or 2 cups raw pepitas)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. If using fresh pumpkin seeds, rinse them in a colander under cool water, removing any pulp. Pat very dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon fine sea salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
  4. Place the dried pumpkin seeds in a large bowl. Pour 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter over them and toss until every seed is coated. If using, add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract to the butter before pouring.
  5. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered seeds and toss until every seed is evenly coated.
  6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the coated seeds in a single, even layer.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring at the 15-minute mark. The seeds are done when golden brown and the kitchen smells like cinnamon.
  8. Let the seeds cool completely on the baking sheet for at least 20 minutes without touching them.
  9. Once cool, break apart any clusters and serve.

Notes

Pat seeds very dry before baking to ensure crunchiness. Stir halfway through for even cooking. Cool completely before serving to allow the sugar coating to harden. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. For a lower-sugar option, use monk fruit sweetener or erythritol (texture may vary).

Nutrition

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