Caramelized Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Snack Mix
Indulge in the delightful crunch of Caramelized Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Snack Mix, an irresistible vegan treat that combines the rich flavors of caramelized pumpkin seeds with a unique blend of spices. This recipe transforms freshly harvested pumpkin seeds into a crunchy snack that perfectly balances sweetness and heat, making it an ideal addition to your snack repertoire. Whether you enjoy it as a party snack, a topping for salads, or a nutritious pick-me-up during your busy day, these pumpkin seeds are sure to impress. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family or savoring all by yourself.
4
Servings
87.5
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
pumpkin seeds
1 cup (cleaned and rinsed (from 1 medium pumpkin))
sugar
5 tablespoons (divided)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (na)
ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon (na)
ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (na)
ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon (na)
cayenne pepper
1 pinch (to taste)
peanut oil
1 1/2 tablespoons (na)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) to prepare for roasting the pumpkin seeds.
2
Carefully scoop out the seeds from a medium pumpkin, ensuring you separate them from the pumpkin's pulp. Rinse the seeds under cold running water and remove any remaining flesh.
3
Spread the cleaned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking, until they become slightly golden.
4
While the seeds are roasting, whisk together 3 tablespoons of sugar, salt, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and a pinch of cayenne pepper in a mixing bowl. Adjust the cayenne according to your spice preference.
5
In a large skillet, heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of peanut oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
6
Add the roasted pumpkin seeds to the skillet along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir frequently and cook for about 45 seconds or until the sugar melts and begins to caramelize, coating the seeds evenly.
7
Once caramelized, quickly transfer the pumpkin seeds to the bowl with the spice mixture. Toss well to ensure each seed is coated in the sweet and spicy blend.
8
Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature before serving or storing.
9
Store the cooled pumpkin seeds in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain their crunchy texture.
Nutrition Information
4.25g
Fat
12.5g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Caramelized Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Snack Mix?
It is a crunchy vegan treat made from roasted pumpkin seeds coated in a caramelized sugar glaze and a blend of savory and hot spices.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is explicitly designed as a vegan treat.
How many calories are in a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 87.5 calories.
What temperature should the oven be for roasting the seeds?
The oven should be preheated to 250°F (120°C).
How long do the pumpkin seeds need to roast?
The seeds should be roasted for about 1 hour until they become slightly golden.
How do I prepare the seeds from a fresh pumpkin?
Scoop the seeds out, separate them from the pulp, and rinse them under cold running water before roasting.
What spices are used in the seasoning mix?
The mix uses salt, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and cayenne pepper.
Can I adjust the heat level of this snack?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your personal spice preference.
What type of oil is recommended for caramelizing?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 tablespoons of peanut oil.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
How much total sugar is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 5 tablespoons of sugar in total, divided for different steps.
Why is it important to stir the seeds while roasting?
Stirring occasionally ensures that the seeds cook evenly on all sides.
How long do the seeds cook in the skillet?
They should be cooked for about 45 seconds or until the sugar melts and caramelizes.
How should I store the pumpkin snack mix?
Store the cooled seeds in an airtight container.
How long will the snack mix stay fresh?
It will maintain its crunchy texture for up to 1 week when stored properly.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 2.5g of protein in each serving.
How much fat is contained in one serving?
Each serving contains 4.25g of fat.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 12.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can these seeds be used as a food topping?
Yes, they are excellent as a topping for salads or other dishes.
How do I know when the oil is ready in the skillet?
The peanut oil is ready when it begins to shimmer over medium-high heat.
When do I add the spice mixture to the seeds?
Transfer the seeds to the bowl with the spice mixture immediately after caramelizing them in the skillet.
Do the seeds need to cool before eating?
Yes, allow them to cool completely at room temperature to achieve maximum crunch.
What size pumpkin is needed for this recipe?
A medium-sized pumpkin will typically yield the 1 cup of seeds required.
What is the texture of the finished pumpkin seeds?
The seeds have a delightful, caramelized crunch.
How much salt is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
Is this snack good for parties?
Yes, it is described as an ideal party snack and party food.
What should I do after the seeds are coated in spices?
Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving or storing.
Are these seeds roasted in a single layer?
Yes, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet for even roasting.
Is this a homemade snack?
Yes, it is a healthy, homemade alternative to store-bought snack mixes.