Description
A homemade, healthy snack made from roasted pumpkin seeds, cranberries, and spices. This zero-waste recipe is protein-packed, customizable, and offers a satisfying crunch without the preservatives found in store-bought mixes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh pumpkin seeds (raw, with membrane) or raw shelled pepitas
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (e.g., avocado or light olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or low-sugar)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans, optional)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, added after cooling)
Instructions
- Extract seeds from pumpkin and separate from pulp. Rinse thoroughly under running water in a colander to remove slime.
- Pat seeds dry with paper towels and let them air dry for 15-20 minutes until completely dry to the touch.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss dried seeds with oil until lightly coated.
- Add brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne, and salt. Toss until seeds are evenly speckled with spices.
- Spread seeds in a single layer on baking sheets. Roast for 10-15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until golden brown and nutty.
- Remove from oven and let seeds cool completely on the baking sheet (20-30 minutes) to allow them to crisp up.
- Once cool, toss in dried cranberries and optional nuts or chocolate chips.
- Store in an airtight container.
Notes
Ensure seeds are completely dry before roasting to achieve maximum crunch. Stir frequently during roasting to prevent burning. Seeds will feel soft when hot but will crisp as they cool. Store in an airtight container to maintain texture. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 7
Keywords: pumpkin seed trail mix, roasted pumpkin seeds, healthy snack, cranberry trail mix, zero waste cooking, vegan snack, gluten-free snack, homemade trail mix