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Cozy Air Fryer Chili Lime Pumpkin Seeds: Easy 15-Minute Snack

cozy air fryer chili lime pumpkin seeds - featured image

These air fryer chili lime pumpkin seeds are a quick, crunchy, and flavorful snack made in just 15 minutes. Perfect for fall gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in, they deliver a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy kick that’s absolutely addictive.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt (plus more for finishing)
  • Zest of 1 lime (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Juice of ½ lime (about 1 tablespoon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Rinse and dry your pumpkin seeds thoroughly. If using fresh pumpkin seeds, rinse under cold water, remove any pulp, and pat completely dry with a towel.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk into a smooth paste.
  4. Add the pumpkin seeds to the bowl and toss until every seed is evenly coated.
  5. Add the lime zest and lime juice, then toss again.
  6. Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
  7. Air fry at 325°F for 8 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through (at 4 minutes).
  8. Check for doneness: seeds should be golden brown and smell toasty. If needed, cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  9. Let the seeds cool completely in the basket (at least 10 minutes) to allow them to crisp up.
  10. Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt and a little extra lime zest. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

For best results, ensure seeds are completely dry before cooking to avoid chewiness. Let seeds cool fully in the basket to maximize crunch. For a milder version, skip the cayenne. For extra heat, add chipotle powder or hot sauce. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes if they lose crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pumpkin seeds, chili lime pumpkin seeds, easy snack, fall snack, healthy snack, crunchy seeds, pepitas recipe