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Best Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

air fryer cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds - featured image

These air fryer cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds are quick, easy, and deliver the perfect combination of crunch and sweetness. Made in under 20 minutes, they are a crowd-pleasing snack for fall gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh pumpkin seeds (about 120g), rinsed and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Clean the seeds thoroughly: Place pumpkin seeds in a colander and rinse under cold running water, using fingers to gently rub away any pumpkin guts and strings. This takes about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Dry the seeds completely: Spread rinsed seeds onto a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat dry thoroughly, then let sit for about 5 minutes to air dry.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3 minutes.
  4. Mix the coating: In a medium mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
  5. Toss the seeds: Add dried pumpkin seeds to the bowl with the coating mixture. Use a spatula to toss until every seed is evenly coated.
  6. Air fry the seeds: Transfer coated seeds to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through at the 4-5 minute mark.
  7. Check for doneness: At the 8-minute mark, seeds should be golden brown and feel dry to the touch. If still slightly soft, cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  8. Cool completely: Transfer hot seeds to a plate or baking sheet in a single layer. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Dry seeds thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Shake basket halfway through cooking. Let cool completely for maximum crunch. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For oven method, bake at 300°F for 25-30 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pumpkin seeds, cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds, easy pumpkin seeds, fall snack, pumpkin seed recipe