Sweet & Spicy Pepitas Recipe

My family are self-proclaimed snack connoisseurs, always on the lookout for that perfect bite – something that hits all the right notes. We’ve tried countless recipes, from elaborate dips to gourmet popcorn, but it’s often the simplest creations that truly steal the show. These Sweet & Spicy Pepitas have become our latest obsession. From the moment I first toasted these little pumpkin seeds, filling the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma, I knew we were onto something special. The first batch disappeared within minutes, devoured by everyone from my spice-loving teenager to my more delicately-palated spouse. The combination of sweet maple syrup, fiery chili powder, and smoky paprika, all clinging to the perfectly crunchy pepitas, is simply addictive. They’re fantastic straight out of the oven, warm and fragrant, but equally delightful cooled down and stored for a quick snack throughout the week. Honestly, these pepitas are so good, they rarely last more than a few days in our house! If you’re searching for a snack that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and surprisingly healthy, look no further. These Sweet & Spicy Pepitas are guaranteed to become your new go-to treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups raw pepitas (pumpkin seeds, hulled)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (pure maple syrup preferred)
• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste for desired spiciness)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Combine Pepitas and Oil: In a large bowl, add the raw pepitas and olive oil (or melted coconut oil). Toss well to ensure that all the pepitas are evenly coated with the oil. This helps the spices adhere and promotes even roasting for maximum crunch.
3. Mix Dry Spices and Sweeteners: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, coconut sugar (or brown sugar), chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar is mostly dissolved into the maple syrup and the spices are well combined, creating a flavorful and aromatic mixture.
4. Coat Pepitas with Sweet & Spicy Mixture: Pour the sweet and spicy mixture over the oil-coated pepitas in the large bowl. Use a spatula or your hands to thoroughly toss the pepitas, ensuring that each seed is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture. This step is crucial for getting that consistent sweet and spicy coating on every pepita.
5. Spread Pepitas Evenly on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated pepitas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than roasting, resulting in less crispy pepitas. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure even spreading.
6. Roast to Crispy Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the pepitas are golden brown and fragrant. Stir the pepitas halfway through the roasting time, around the 10-minute mark, to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of roasting as they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.
7. Cool Completely for Maximum Crunch: Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pepitas cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, they will crisp up even further. Resist the temptation to eat them while they are still warm, as they won’t be as crunchy. Allowing them to cool fully is key to achieving that perfect pepita crunch.
8. Enjoy and Store: Once completely cooled, the Sweet & Spicy Pepitas are ready to enjoy! You can serve them immediately as a snack, appetizer, or topping. Store any leftover pepitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They are best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness and crunch.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Servings: Approximately 16 servings (¼ cup per serving)
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements.)

Approximate Nutrition Facts per Serving (¼ cup):

• Calories: 120-150 kcal
• Protein: 4-5g
• Fat: 9-12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1-2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 4-6g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 3-5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 70-100mg
• Carbohydrates: 8-10g
  • Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugar: 3-5g

Nutritional Highlights:

• Good Source of Healthy Fats: Pepitas are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Excellent Source of Magnesium: Pepitas are a fantastic source of magnesium, an essential mineral involved in numerous bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation.
• Good Source of Protein: Pepitas contribute a decent amount of plant-based protein to your diet, making them a satisfying snack.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Pepitas contain antioxidants like vitamin E and carotenoids, which help protect your cells from damage.
• Source of Fiber: Pepitas provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.

(Disclaimer: This nutritional information is an estimate for informational purposes only. For precise nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient brands.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for satisfying snack cravings in under half an hour!

How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Pepitas

These versatile Sweet & Spicy Pepitas can be enjoyed in countless ways! Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Snack Straight Out of the Jar: The simplest and most satisfying way! Keep a jar of these pepitas on hand for a quick and healthy snack anytime cravings strike. They are perfect for munching on while working, watching movies, or on the go.
• Party Appetizer: Elevate your party snack game by serving these pepitas in small bowls. Their bold flavor and satisfying crunch make them a crowd-pleasing appetizer that pairs well with drinks. Consider setting out a platter with olives, cheese, and other nuts alongside the pepitas for a beautiful and flavorful spread.
• Salad Topping: Add a delightful crunch and burst of flavor to your salads by sprinkling Sweet & Spicy Pepitas on top. They work exceptionally well with green salads, grain bowls, and even fruit salads, adding a textural contrast and a sweet and spicy kick. Try them on a fall harvest salad with roasted vegetables and a vinaigrette.
• Soup Garnish: Instead of croutons, garnish your soups with these flavorful pepitas. They add a wonderful textural element and a pop of flavor to creamy soups like butternut squash soup, pumpkin soup, or even black bean soup.
• Trail Mix Addition: Boost your homemade trail mix by incorporating Sweet & Spicy Pepitas. They add a unique flavor profile and a satisfying crunch that complements other trail mix ingredients like dried fruit, nuts, and seeds.
• Yogurt or Oatmeal Topping: Start your day with a flavorful and crunchy topping for your yogurt or oatmeal. Sweet & Spicy Pepitas add a delightful textural contrast and a burst of flavor to your breakfast, making it more exciting and satisfying.
• Cheese Board Accompaniment: Include a small bowl of Sweet & Spicy Pepitas on your next cheese board. The sweet and spicy flavors pair beautifully with a variety of cheeses, especially aged cheddar, goat cheese, or brie, creating a delightful flavor combination.
• Gift Giving: Package these delicious pepitas in decorative jars or bags and give them as thoughtful homemade gifts. They are perfect for holidays, hostess gifts, or just a special treat for friends and family.

Additional Tips for Perfect Sweet & Spicy Pepitas

1. Adjust the Spice Level to Your Preference: The recipe calls for ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust this to your liking. For a milder spice, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether. For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Taste the spice mixture before coating the pepitas to ensure it’s to your desired spice level.
2. Use Fresh, Raw Pepitas: For the best flavor and texture, start with fresh, raw pepitas. Avoid using roasted or salted pepitas as they will not absorb the sweet and spicy coating as well and may become overly salty when roasted again.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spreading the pepitas in a single layer is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness. Overcrowding the pan will cause the pepitas to steam instead of roast, resulting in a less crunchy texture. If necessary, use two baking sheets or roast in batches.
4. Cool Completely for Maximum Crunch: Patience is key! Allow the pepitas to cool completely on the baking sheet before enjoying or storing them. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Resist the urge to taste them while warm, as the full crunchy texture develops as they cool down.
5. Experiment with Different Sweeteners and Spices: Feel free to experiment with different sweeteners and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking. You can substitute honey or agave for maple syrup, use brown sugar instead of coconut sugar, or try different spice combinations like cinnamon and nutmeg for a warmer flavor, or chipotle powder for a smoky heat. Get creative and find your perfect sweet and spicy pepita combination!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Sweet & Spicy Pepitas

Q1: Can I use pre-roasted pepitas for this recipe?

A: It’s not recommended to use pre-roasted pepitas for this recipe. Raw pepitas absorb the sweet and spicy coating best and roast to a perfect crisp in the oven. Pre-roasted pepitas may become dry or burnt when roasted again, and they won’t absorb the flavors as effectively. Starting with raw pepitas ensures the best flavor and texture.

Q2: How long do Sweet & Spicy Pepitas stay fresh?

A: When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, Sweet & Spicy Pepitas will stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week. However, they are best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal freshness and texture. Moisture is their enemy, so ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent them from becoming soft.

Q3: Can I make these pepitas ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Sweet & Spicy Pepitas are a great make-ahead snack. You can prepare them a few days in advance and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve them. This makes them perfect for parties, meal prepping, or having a healthy snack readily available.

Q4: Are Sweet & Spicy Pepitas healthy?

A: Yes, in moderation! Pepitas themselves are a healthy snack, packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, magnesium, and antioxidants. While this recipe includes maple syrup and sugar, the amount per serving is relatively small, especially when compared to many processed snacks. By using unrefined sweeteners like maple syrup and coconut sugar, you’re also getting some added minerals. Enjoy them as a part of a balanced diet.

Q5: Can I make these pepitas nut-free and gluten-free?

A: Yes! This recipe is naturally nut-free and gluten-free. Pepitas are seeds, not nuts, making them safe for those with nut allergies. As long as you use gluten-free spices (most spices are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if you have severe sensitivities), this recipe is suitable for both nut-free and gluten-free diets. It’s a naturally inclusive snack that most people can enjoy!

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