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Easy Air Fryer Chili Lime Pumpkin Seeds: Best Kid-Approved Snack

air fryer chili lime pumpkin seeds - featured image
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These Easy Air Fryer Chili Lime Pumpkin Seeds are a crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy snack that kids and adults love. Ready in under 20 minutes, they’re perfect for after-school snacks, movie nights, or lunchboxes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (140g) raw shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lime juice (from about half a lime)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (e.g., McCormick)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Rinse and dry the pumpkin seeds thoroughly if using fresh seeds; pat very dry with a towel.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne (if using). Stir to break up clumps.
  4. Add pumpkin seeds to the bowl, drizzle with oil and lime juice, and toss until every seed is coated.
  5. Spread seeds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
  6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through (at 5 minutes). Watch closely toward the end to prevent burning.
  7. Check for doneness: let one seed cool for 30 seconds; it should be crunchy. If still chewy, cook for 1-2 more minutes.
  8. Cool completely on a plate or baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before serving.
  9. Optional: After cooling, spritz with a little fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

Notes

Don’t skip drying the seeds—moisture prevents crisping. Air fryer temperatures vary; start at 325°F and adjust. Shake halfway for even cooking. Let seeds cool completely to achieve maximum crunch. For a more intense flavor, reserve a pinch of seasoning and sprinkle over hot seeds after cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pumpkin seeds, chili lime pumpkin seeds, kid-friendly snack, healthy snack, easy snack recipe

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