how long to bake pumpkin seeds
Baking pumpkin seeds is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious snack. Here’s a basic guide on how to bake pumpkin seeds and the recommended baking time:
Basic Baking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse the pumpkin seeds in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water, and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Toss the pumpkin seeds with a tablespoon or two of oil (olive, coconut, or avocado oil work well) and your desired seasonings (e.g., salt, garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs).
- Spread the pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking Time:
- Small pumpkin seeds (about 1/4 inch or 6 mm in length): 10-15 minutes
- Medium pumpkin seeds (about 1/2 inch or 1 cm in length): 15-20 minutes
- Large pumpkin seeds (about 3/4 inch or 2 cm in length): 20-25 minutes
Check for Doneness:
- After the recommended baking time, check the pumpkin seeds for doneness by removing a few from the oven and letting them cool. If they’re crispy and golden brown, they’re done. If not, continue baking in 5-minute increments until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
Tips:
- Keep an eye on the pumpkin seeds during the baking time, as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burnt.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can try baking the pumpkin seeds at a higher temperature (400°F or 200°C) for a shorter amount of time (5-10 minutes). However, be careful not to burn them.
- You can also roast pumpkin seeds in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they’re toasted and fragrant. This method takes about 5-10 minutes.
Enjoy your delicious baked pumpkin seeds!
