Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds

Every fall, my kitchen counter ends up covered with pumpkin seeds. For years I would rinse them, spread them out, and slide a tray into the oven, only to wait and check, wait and check, while the smell teased me.

It was always worth it, but it felt like the oven held them hostage far too long. Then one afternoon, on a whim, I tossed a batch into the air fryer. Ten minutes later, I had the crispiest, golden seeds I’d ever made, and I haven’t looked back since.

There’s a rhythm to it now—scooping seeds out of the pumpkin, rinsing them clean, tossing them in a little oil and seasoning, then letting the air fryer work its magic.

The results are always satisfying: a bowl of warm, crunchy seeds that vanish faster than I expect.

They make the kitchen smell nutty and toasty, and they’re the kind of snack that keeps hands reaching back for more.

What I love most is how reliable they turn out every single time—crisp edges, full flavor, and a light crunch that doesn’t need any fuss.

This is the snack that never lingers in the jar for long, because it’s too easy to keep munching until the bowl is empty.

Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (cleaned and dried)
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

Rinse the pumpkin seeds thoroughly under cold water to remove any pulp or stringy bits. Pat them dry very well with a kitchen towel or paper towels. Moisture will prevent them from crisping.
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps the seeds cook evenly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the dried pumpkin seeds with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss until every seed is coated with seasoning.
Place the seasoned seeds in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; they need space for the hot air to circulate.
Cook the seeds for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to make sure they roast evenly. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes, as pumpkin seeds can go from golden to burnt quickly.
Once they are light golden brown and crunchy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. They will crisp up a bit more as they cool.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

How Do You Clean Pumpkin Seeds Before Air Frying?

Cleaning the seeds properly makes a big difference in how crisp they turn out. After scooping seeds out of the pumpkin, place them in a large bowl of cold water.

Rub them gently with your fingers to separate the pulp. The pulp will sink while the seeds float, making it easy to remove the stringy parts.

Once separated, spread the seeds on a clean towel and pat them completely dry. The drier they are, the crunchier they will be after air frying.

Do You Need To Boil Pumpkin Seeds Before Air Frying?

Some people boil pumpkin seeds in salted water before roasting or air frying, but it’s not necessary.

Boiling gives a softer bite and adds salt inside the shell, while skipping boiling keeps them firmer and crunchier.

For this recipe, drying and seasoning the seeds directly is enough to achieve the perfect crunch.

How Long Should You Air Fry Pumpkin Seeds?

The cooking time depends on your air fryer model and the size of the seeds. On average, it takes about 10 to 12 minutes at 350°F.

Small seeds: Check them around 8 minutes because they crisp faster.
Medium to large seeds: Usually need the full 12 minutes.
Important tip: Shake the basket halfway through so every seed cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.

What Seasonings Work Well With Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds?

Seasonings can completely change the flavor of your pumpkin seeds. A light coat of oil helps the spices stick and roast evenly. Here are some popular ideas:

Classic salt and pepper: Simple and always delicious.
Garlic powder and paprika: Adds warmth and smokiness.
Cinnamon and sugar: A sweet option for kids and dessert lovers.
Chili powder or cayenne: Great for those who like a spicy kick.
Herbs like rosemary or thyme: Bring an earthy, aromatic touch.

Experimenting with different spices makes every batch unique, and you can create both savory and sweet options to match your mood.

Why Are My Pumpkin Seeds Not Crunchy?

If your seeds turn out soft or chewy, a few things may have gone wrong:

Too much moisture: Seeds weren’t dried fully before seasoning.
Overcrowding the basket: Seeds need space for hot air to flow around them.
Not enough cooking time: Seeds should be golden and firm before removing them.
Cooling step skipped: Seeds continue to crisp up as they cool. If stored while warm, they trap steam and lose crunch.

Can You Air Fry Pumpkin Seeds Without Oil?

Yes, but oil makes a noticeable difference. Without oil, seeds still toast, but they may taste drier and the seasoning won’t stick as well.

A tiny amount of oil, even just half a teaspoon, improves texture and helps spices stay in place. If you prefer oil-free, try tossing them lightly in soy sauce or lemon juice before seasoning.

How Do You Store Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds?

Proper storage keeps seeds fresh and crunchy for longer. Always cool them completely before storing.

Room temperature: Store in an airtight jar or container for up to 1 week. Keep them away from sunlight or heat.
Refrigerator: Lasts up to 3 weeks, especially in humid climates.
Freezer: Seeds can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe bag, and re-crisp them in the air fryer for a few minutes before eating.

If your seeds soften over time, reheat them in the air fryer at 325°F for 3–4 minutes to bring back their crunch.

Are Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds Healthy?

Yes, they are packed with nutrients that support your body in many ways.

Rich in protein: Helps you feel full and supports muscle repair.
High in fiber: Aids digestion and keeps your stomach satisfied.
Loaded with minerals: Contain magnesium, zinc, and iron that support energy, immunity, and bone health.
Healthy fats: Provide plant-based fats that are good for your heart.

Eating them in moderation makes for a smart, balanced snack.