Sweet and Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Elevate your snack game with these Sweet and Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds! This delightful recipe features green pumpkin seeds (pepitas) coated in pure maple syrup and a hint of salt, with an optional kick from cayenne pepper or the smokiness of paprika. Perfectly roasted to golden perfection, these seeds offer a crunchy texture and a balance of sweet and savory flavors. They're not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them an ideal snack for any time of the day. Enjoy them on their own, toss them into salads, or use them as a topping for soups. Share the joy of this easy-to-make treat with friends and family!
1
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
green pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
1 cup (raw)
pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon (none)
salt
3/4 teaspoon (none)
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
paprika
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the green pumpkin seeds, pure maple syrup, salt, and your choice of cayenne pepper or paprika. Toss the mixture well to ensure all the seeds are evenly coated.
3
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and then pour the seeds and any remaining syrup mixture onto the sheet. Spread the seeds out evenly in a single layer for optimal roasting.
4
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and toast the seeds for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and aromatic. Be sure to stir the mixture occasionally to promote even browning, and keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
5
Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the seeds cool on the sheet. After cooling completely, transfer the seeds to an airtight container for storage.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sweet and Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds?
They are a crunchy snack made from green pumpkin seeds (pepitas) coated in maple syrup, salt, and spices like cayenne or paprika.
What ingredients are required for this recipe?
You will need green pumpkin seeds (pepitas), pure maple syrup, salt, and optional cayenne pepper or paprika.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for roasting the seeds.
How long does it take to roast the pumpkin seeds?
The seeds typically take about 10 to 15 minutes to toast until they are golden brown.
Is this pumpkin seed recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses pure maple syrup and plant-based ingredients.
Is this snack gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed, including pepitas and maple syrup, are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use paprika instead of cayenne pepper?
Yes, you can use paprika for a smoky flavor or cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicy kick.
How much maple syrup do I need?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup per cup of pumpkin seeds.
Should I stir the seeds while they are in the oven?
Yes, stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even browning and to prevent the seeds from burning.
How do I prevent the seeds from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper before spreading the seeds out.
What is the best way to store roasted pumpkin seeds?
Once cooled completely, transfer the seeds to an airtight container for storage.
Can these seeds be used as a topping?
Yes, they are excellent as a crunchy topping for salads or soups.
What type of pumpkin seeds should I use?
The recipe specifies raw green pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe uses 3/4 teaspoon of salt for one cup of seeds.
Are these roasted seeds healthy?
Yes, they are nutrient-packed and make a great healthy snack alternative.
Can I make this recipe if I don't like spicy food?
Yes, the cayenne pepper and paprika are optional, so you can omit them for a purely sweet and salty snack.
What should I do after removing the seeds from the oven?
Let the seeds cool completely on the baking sheet before moving them to a container.
How do I ensure the seeds roast evenly?
Spread the seeds out in a single layer on the baking sheet and stir them during the roasting process.
What makes the seeds 'aromatic'?
The combination of maple syrup roasting and the toasted seeds creates a pleasant, fragrant scent when they are done.
Is the serving size adjustable?
Yes, you can scale the ingredients up if you wish to make more than the one cup specified.
What is the preparation for the pepitas?
The pepitas should be raw before you begin the roasting process.
Can I use a different sweetener?
The recipe specifically calls for pure maple syrup for the best flavor and texture.
How much spice is recommended?
If using cayenne or paprika, 1/4 teaspoon is the suggested amount.
What kind of bowl should I use for mixing?
A medium-sized bowl is sufficient to toss the seeds with the syrup and spices.
Why is parchment paper recommended?
Parchment paper makes cleanup easier and prevents the syrup from sticking to the baking sheet.
Are these seeds good for sharing?
Yes, they are an easy-to-make treat that is great for sharing with friends and family.
Can I eat these seeds on their own?
Absolutely, they are designed to be enjoyed as a standalone snack.
Do these seeds have a crunchy texture?
Yes, roasting them at a high temperature results in a delightful crunchy texture.
What is the total preparation time?
Between mixing and roasting, the recipe takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Is there a specific way to toss the mixture?
Toss well in a bowl to ensure every seed is evenly coated with the syrup and spices before roasting.