Old Bay Pumpkin Seeds – Crispy, Savory, and Perfectly Spiced
Old Bay pumpkin seeds are a flavorful and crunchy snack that takes your roasted pumpkin seeds to the next level. Combining the nutty taste of pumpkin seeds with the zesty, slightly spicy Old Bay seasoning creates a delicious, addictive treat.
Whether you’re roasting pumpkin seeds after Halloween or looking for a healthy, protein-packed snack, this recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for all ages. It’s also versatile enough to tweak the spice level and experiment with sweet or savory flavors.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- Salt to taste
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Preheat oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare pumpkin seeds – Rinse and dry the pumpkin seeds thoroughly if using fresh from a pumpkin.
- Season seeds – In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin seeds, olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange on baking sheet – Spread the seeds in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Roast the seeds – Bake for 12–15 minutes, stirring halfway through. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Seeds should be golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and store – Let seeds cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They will stay crispy for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Size: ¼ cup (approx. 50g) per person
Tips & Variations
- Spicy kick: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
- Sweet and savory: Toss with 1 tsp brown sugar or maple syrup before roasting.
- Nut mix: Mix roasted pumpkin seeds with almonds, cashews, or peanuts for a snack mix.
- Microwave option: Toast seeds in the microwave in 1–2 minute intervals, stirring frequently until golden.
- Perfect crisp: Spread seeds evenly and avoid overcrowding to ensure maximum crunch.
Nutrition Info (Per ¼ cup serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-oil: Skip or reduce oil and use a non-stick spray.
- Low-sodium: Reduce added salt or Old Bay seasoning for lower sodium.
- Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure Old Bay brand does not include gluten additives.
- Keto-friendly: Pumpkin seeds are low-carb, making them a perfect keto snack.
- Sugar-free: Skip any sweet additions for a pure savory snack.
Serving Suggestions
Old Bay pumpkin seeds are perfect as a snack, salad topping, or addition to soups and roasted vegetables. Serve warm for the crunchiest texture or store in an airtight jar for a grab-and-go snack. Their savory, slightly spicy flavor makes them a versatile treat for any time of the day.
This simple recipe transforms ordinary pumpkin seeds into a flavor-packed snack that is easy to make, healthy, and crowd-pleasing.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I use already roasted pumpkin seeds?
Yes, but reduce baking time to 5–7 minutes to avoid over-toasting.
Q2: How long do Old Bay pumpkin seeds stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for 2–3 weeks.
Q3: Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Roast at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Q4: Is Old Bay seasoning gluten-free?
Most Old Bay varieties are naturally gluten-free, but always check the label for cross-contamination warnings.
Q5: Can I use this recipe with other seeds?
Yes! Sunflower seeds, pepitas, or even sesame seeds can be roasted using the same method.
