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Baked Cajun Pumpkin Seeds are displayed as a featured image for a recipe article.

Perfect Baked Cajun Pumpkin Seeds

Transform your pumpkin carving leftovers into a flavorful and addictive snack with this recipe for Perfect Baked Cajun Pumpkin Seeds. These seeds are perfectly crispy and packed with a smoky, spicy, and savory flavor thanks to the Cajun seasoning.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups raw pumpkin seeds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: Garlic powder
  • Optional: Onion powder
  • Optional: Cayenne pepper
  • Optional: Brown sugar
  • Optional: Smoked paprika

Equipment

  • Colander
  • Kitchen towel or paper towels
  • Medium bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Spoon or hands for separating seeds
  • Airtight container

Method
 

  1. Separate the seeds from the pumpkin pulp.
  2. Rinse the seeds thoroughly under cold running water.
  3. Dry the seeds completely by spreading them on a kitchen towel or paper towels and patting them dry. Let them air dry for at least an hour, or preferably overnight.
  4. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  5. In a medium bowl, toss the dried pumpkin seeds with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and salt. Add any optional spices.
  6. Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. Bake for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 15-20 minutes, until the seeds are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the seeds cool completely on the baking sheet.
  9. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. For extra flavor, toast the Cajun seasoning in a dry skillet before adding it to the seeds. Experiment with different spices like chili powder, cumin, or cinnamon. Watch the seeds closely for burning during the last 15 minutes of baking. For a sweet and spicy flavor, add brown sugar. For extra spice, add more cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika. For a garlicky punch, add extra garlic powder. For an herby twist, add dried rosemary or thyme.