How Long to Bake Pumpkin Seeds at 350

Pumpkin seeds are a tasty, healthy snack that’s easy to make at home. Roasting them at 350°F brings out a delicious crunch and rich, nutty flavor. But How Long to Bake Pumpkin Seeds at 350 and Get Crispy Results Every Time?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to prepare and bake pumpkin seeds to get the perfect texture and taste. Let’s get started!

Why Roast Pumpkin Seeds?

Roasting pumpkin seeds isn’t just about using leftover seeds from Halloween carving.

It’s a simple way to enjoy a nutrient-packed snack high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Pumpkin seeds are also versatile; you can enjoy them plain, sweetened, or spiced up. Roasting them at home lets you customize the flavors and avoid additives often found in store-bought snacks.

Getting Your Pumpkin Seeds Ready for Baking

Before baking, a little prep work will make sure your seeds come out delicious and crunchy.

Step 1: Separate Seeds from the Pulp
After scooping out your pumpkin, remove as much pulp as possible.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry
Rinse the seeds in a colander under cold water to remove any leftover pumpkin bits. Pat them dry with a paper towel; drier seeds roast better.

Step 3: Optional Soak
Some people like to soak their seeds in salted water for a few hours. This can add a bit of flavor and helps make them crunchier. If you do soak them, make sure to drain and dry the seeds completely before baking.

Seasoning Options for Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Once your seeds are clean and dry, it’s time to add flavor. Here are some tasty seasoning ideas:

• Classic Salted: Toss with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with salt.
• Sweet Cinnamon Sugar: Mix with butter, cinnamon, and a bit of sugar for a sweeter treat.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a kick. Garlic powder also works well here.
• Herbed: Try adding Italian herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory flavor.

After seasoning, toss to coat the seeds evenly. Spread them out on your baking sheet to make sure each one roasts evenly.

How Long to Bake Pumpkin Seeds at 350 °F

Here’s the step-by-step guide for baking:

1. Preheat Your Oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the Seeds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they’re in a single layer, so they roast evenly.
3. Bake for 25–30 Minutes. Check them halfway through and give them a stir to ensure even cooking.
4. Check for Crunchiness. When the seeds are golden brown and smell nutty, they’re ready. If they’re not quite crisp, leave them in for another 5–10 minutes, watching closely.

Tips for Perfectly Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Here are a few quick tips to make sure your seeds turn out great:

• Check Often Near the End: Every oven is a bit different, so check on them in the last few minutes to avoid burning.
• Dry Thoroughly: Make sure the seeds are as dry as possible before baking.
• Season After Baking (Optional): If you want to add delicate seasonings like herbs, you might want to add them after baking to keep them from burning.

Conclusion

Baking pumpkin seeds at 350°F gives you a tasty, crispy snack you can enjoy anytime.

With a little prep and some creative seasoning, homemade pumpkin seeds are easy to make and fun to eat.

Give it a try next time you’re carving pumpkins—you might just find they’re your new favorite snack!

FAQ about How long to bake pumpkin seeds at 350

1. Can I bake pumpkin seeds at a different temperature?
Yes, you can. Baking at a lower temperature, like 300°F, will take around 45–50 minutes. A higher temperature, like 400°F, will roast them in about 15–20 minutes.

2. Do I need to soak pumpkin seeds before baking?
No, soaking is optional. It can help add flavor if you soak them in salt water, but you can skip this step.

3. How do I make pumpkin seeds extra crispy?
Make sure they’re fully dry before baking, and stir them halfway through the baking time.

4. Can I eat the shells of roasted pumpkin seeds?
Yes, the shells are edible and add extra fiber. If you prefer, you can shell them after baking, though this takes time.

5. How long do roasted pumpkin seeds stay fresh?
In an airtight container, they last 1–2 weeks at room temperature or up to a month in the fridge.