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Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pumpkin Seeds - Sweet, Crunchy, and Easy

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups raw pumpkin seeds (from a large pumpkin or store-bought pepitas; if using pepitas, skip boiling)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or canola, for even roasting)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (adds caramel notes)
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but lovely)
  • Water and 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling fresh seeds)

Method
 

  1. Prep the seeds: If using seeds from a pumpkin, separate them from the pulp. Rinse in a bowl of water, swishing to remove strings. Don’t stress about getting every bit off—some is fine.
  2. Boil for better texture: Bring a pot of water to a simmer with 1 teaspoon salt. Add seeds and cook for 8–10 minutes. This seasons them and helps them crisp. Drain well and pat dry with a clean towel.
  3. Preheat the oven: Set to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
  4. Make the coating: Melt the butter. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, oil, vanilla (if using), cinnamon, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
  5. Toss the seeds: Add the dried seeds to the bowl and stir until evenly coated. The sugar will look slightly sandy—perfect.
  6. Spread and roast: Spread seeds in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 22–30 minutes, stirring every 8–10 minutes to prevent hot spots.
  7. Watch for doneness: Seeds are done when golden, dry to the touch, and smell toasty. They may still feel a bit soft right out of the oven; they crisp as they cool.
  8. Final toss (optional): For extra sparkle, sprinkle 1–2 teaspoons sugar over the hot seeds and toss once more on the pan.
  9. Cool completely: Let them cool on the pan for 15–20 minutes before transferring to a bowl or container.