How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds

Reviewed by Ashley Crawford

Last Updated: August 23, 2024 Approved

Instead of throwing out the pumpkin seeds after a pumpkin carving session, try roasting them as a delicious snack instead! Rinse the seeds under cold running water before drying them and baking them in the oven until they're golden brown. You can add any sort of seasonings you desire, turning your pumpkin seeds into a spicy, sweet, or simply flavorful treat.

Part 1

Part 1 of 4:

Removing the Seeds from the Pumpkin

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If you haven’t already done so, use a sharp cutting knife to cut a circle around the pumpkin’s stem. Make sure the lid is wide enough for your hand to fit through comfortably. Remove the lid once you’re done cutting it. ^{[1]
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2
Use a large spoon to scoop the seeds from the pumpkin. The bigger the spoon, the more seeds you’ll be able to remove at once. Scrape the sides of the pumpkin to loosen the seeds and pulp, taking time to scoop out as many seeds as possible. ^{[2]
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- You can also use your hands or an object from a pumpkin carving kit.
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3
Place all of the seeds and pulp in a large bowl. As you’re scooping out the seeds, place the seeds and pulp in a bowl big enough to hold everything. Remove large pieces of pulp from the seeds as you’re placing them in the bowl, but don’t worry about separating every single string. ^{[3]
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- If you’re removing the seeds from a smaller pumpkin, you may not need as large of a bowl.

Part 2

Part 2 of 4:

Washing and Drying the Seeds

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This will help loosen the pulp and strings from the seeds, making it easier to clean them. Hold the colander full of seeds under the running water, using your hands to move the seeds around gently. ^{[4]
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2
Pull the seeds out of the colander and place them on a towel. Once the seeds are mostly clean, take them out of the colander and set them on a clean kitchen towel. If there are any big strings still attached to the seeds, pull these off if possible. ^{[5]
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- You can also place the seeds on paper towels, though they may stick.
3
Pat the seeds dry using the kitchen towel. Spread the seeds out on the towel and gently blot the seeds to ensure they’re as dry as possible. Place the seeds in a bowl once they’re dry. ^{[6]
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- Instead of blotting the seeds, you can also shake them in the colander to remove excess water.
- If the seeds are still damp when they go in the oven, they won’t roast well due to the moisture.

Part 3

Part 3 of 4:

Adding Seasonings

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1
Toss the seeds with oil or butter. Once the clean, dry seeds are in a bowl, pour cooking oil or melted butter into the bowl so that the seeds are lightly covered. Use a large spoon to mix the seeds around with the oil or butter so that each seed is covered evenly. ^{[7]
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- Use canola oil, olive oil, or vegetable oil.
- How much oil or butter you use will depend on how many pumpkin seeds you’re roasting, but it’s best to start with a small amount—you can always add more.
2
Add your desired seasonings. These could be seasonings such as Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper—whichever seasonings are your favorite. Sprinkle the desired amount of seasoning into the bowl of pumpkin seeds. ^{[8]
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- Experiment with the type and amount of seasonings, sprinkling in small amounts before adding more.
- For a simple yet tasty flavor, just add salt and pepper to your pumpkin seeds.
- Consider adding seasonings like chili powder, Cajun seasoning, or crab seasoning for a stronger flavor.
- Season with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a sweet snack.
Stir gently, making sure the pumpkin seeds are evenly coated with oil or butter and your desired seasonings. If you notice that many seeds don’t have seasoning on them, feel free to sprinkle a little bit more into the mixture. ^{[9]
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Part 4

Part 4 of 4:

Baking the Seeds

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Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will prevent the seeds from sticking the best, though you can also use aluminum foil. Once the oven is preheated, you're ready to roast your seeds. ^{[10]
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2
Spread the seeds out evenly on the baking sheet. Pour the seasoned pumpkin seeds onto the lined baking sheet, using a spoon to spread them out. Try to make sure they aren’t clumped together and are laying flat so they roast evenly. ^{[11]
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- If your pumpkin seeds end up layered on top of one another, try baking them in two smaller batches to promote even roasting.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven every 10 minutes and move the seeds around using a wooden spoon or other kitchen utensil—this will help ensure each seed roasts evenly. Once the seeds look browned, they’re done! ^{[12]
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Once the seeds have been removed and the oven is turned off, use a spatula to scoop the seeds into a bowl or other serving dish. You can eat them while they’re still warm from the oven, or let them sit for a few minutes until they’re cool. ^{[13]
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5
Store the seeds in an airtight container for roughly 1 week. If you want to save your roasted pumpkin seeds, put them in an airtight container such as a mason jar, plastic bag, or piece of tupperware. The seeds will stay fresh for a week or so at room temperature, or you can place them in the freezer for up to a month. ^{[14]
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- If placing the seeds in the freezer, they should be in an airtight container as well.
- Write the date on the container so you remember when the seeds were roasted.

Community Q&A

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Can I roast the seeds without the shells?

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This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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Yes, you can! If you don’t feel like shelling the seeds yourself, you can buy pre-shelled seeds at many grocery stores. Toss the seeds in olive oil and the seasonings of your choice, then spread them out on some parchment paper in a baking sheet and roast them for 10-15 minutes at 325° F (163° C).

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Should I soak the seeds before roasting them?

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Soaking the seeds is optional, but some people recommend doing it because it makes the seeds easier to digest and helps them crisp up in the oven. Soak the seeds for 8 hours or overnight in saltwater, then drain them and pat them dry before you roast them.

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Will you throw up if you don't wash the seeds with salt water?

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No.

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Things You'll Need

Cutting knife
Large spoon
Large bowl
Colander
Towel
Oil or butter
Seasonings
Sheet pan
Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Airtight container (optional)

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Tips

Place newspaper over your table surfaces for easier cleanup.

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Try using a toaster oven for smaller amounts of pumpkin seeds.

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Add your seasonings after roasting the seeds, if desired.

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When baking the seeds, make sure that you crack a few open to see if the inner seed is golden. The inner seed bakes much faster than the outer shell, so don't just look at the outer shell to tell if they're cooked.
I love cooking these with cinnamon, butter, and brown sugar! They're a perfect topping for yogurt, ice cream, or oatmeal.
I always keep pumpkin seeds in an air tight container after roasting to maintain their freshness.
Try sprinkling some roasted pumpkin seeds on top of pumpkin pie for some satisfying crunch!

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How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds

Steps

Removing the Seeds from the Pumpkin

Washing and Drying the Seeds

Adding Seasonings

Baking the Seeds

Community Q&A

Things You'll Need

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Tips

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