Introduction

Every Halloween, pumpkins are carved and celebrated, but the seeds inside are often overlooked. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Halloween Spices transform these humble seeds into a crunchy, flavorful snack perfect for autumn gatherings, movie nights, or Halloween parties.

Seasoned with warm and aromatic spices such as cinnamon, paprika, nutmeg, and a hint of cayenne, these seeds are both savory and slightly sweet. They’re nutritious, high in protein, and a great way to reduce food waste while enjoying a tasty treat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of warm spices and roasted crunch evokes the cozy flavors of fall while remaining a light, guilt-free snack. It’s also very versatile—kids can enjoy them sweet or mild, and adults can spice them up for a grown-up flavor profile.

Roasting pumpkin seeds yourself gives complete control over flavors and texture, plus it’s a fun, seasonal activity that makes use of the entire pumpkin.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Seasonal & Festive: Perfect for Halloween and fall-themed gatherings.
Healthy Snack: Packed with protein, fiber, and minerals.
Versatile: Sweet, spicy, or savory variations to suit all tastes.
Easy & Fun: Quick to prepare and rewarding to snack on.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Calories: ~150 calories per 1/4 cup serving

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: American / Fall-themed
Course: Snack / Appetizer

Ingredients

1 cup raw pumpkin seeds, cleaned and rinsed
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1/2 tsp salt
1–2 tsp brown sugar (optional for sweetness)

Simple Cooking Directions

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Toss pumpkin seeds with oil and spices.
Spread seeds on a baking sheet.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cool and serve as a crunchy snack.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Preheat Oven: Set oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Seeds: After cleaning the pumpkin seeds, pat them dry with a towel.
Season: In a bowl, mix pumpkin seeds with olive oil or melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and brown sugar. Toss until seeds are evenly coated.
Spread on Baking Sheet: Arrange seeds in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
Roast Seeds: Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent burning. Watch carefully during the last 5 minutes as seeds can brown quickly.
Cool & Serve: Let the seeds cool completely for maximum crunch. Store in an airtight container or serve immediately.

How to Serve

Serve in small bowls as a snack at Halloween parties.
Add to trail mix for a seasonal twist.
Sprinkle over salads, soups, or roasted veggies for extra crunch.
Package in small decorative bags for Halloween treat favors.

Additional Recipe Tips

Pat seeds completely dry to ensure they roast evenly and become crispy.
Stir seeds frequently while roasting to prevent burning.
Adjust spice levels to taste—add more cinnamon for sweet, more paprika/cayenne for spicy.
Store roasted seeds in an airtight container to maintain crunch.

Variations

Sweet: Increase brown sugar to 2–3 tsp and omit cayenne.
Savory: Replace cinnamon and nutmeg with garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Spicy: Add chili powder, cayenne, or smoked paprika for heat.
Maple Glazed: Toss seeds with maple syrup and a pinch of salt before roasting.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

Baking sheet
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Mixing bowl
Spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q: Can I roast seeds from any pumpkin?
Yes! Just clean them thoroughly and dry completely.

Q: How do I make seeds extra crunchy?
Pat dry, toss in oil, roast low and slow (325°F), and stir occasionally.

Q: Can I season seeds after roasting?
Yes, but they’ll absorb spices better if tossed before roasting.

Q: How long do roasted seeds stay fresh?
Best eaten within a week for maximum crunch; can be frozen for up to a month.

Conclusion

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Halloween Spices are the ultimate autumn snack—healthy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. They are easy to prepare, versatile in seasoning, and perfect for Halloween parties or cozy fall evenings. With their warm spices and satisfying crunch, these seeds are a must-try seasonal treat that will delight both kids and adults alike.