Delicious Pumpkin Seed Baking Recipes for Every Taste

Pumpkin Seed Baking Recipes

Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are not just a side product of carving Jack-o-lanterns during Halloween. These small but mighty seeds are packed with nutritional goodness and can be a versatile ingredient in your baking adventures. From savory to sweet, pumpkin seed baking recipes offer a wide range of flavors and textures that will surely delight your taste buds. In this article, we will explore some mouthwatering pumpkin seed baking recipes that are easy to make and guaranteed to impress your friends and family.

1. Roasted Pumpkin Seed Muffins

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup roasted pumpkin seeds (cooled)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, buttermilk, and eggs until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in the roasted pumpkin seeds.
6. Divide the batter equally into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve and enjoy!

2. Pumpkin Seed Granola Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and roasted pumpkin seeds.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the honey, almond butter, and salt over medium heat until well combined.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the oats and pumpkin seeds, and mix until everything is evenly coated.
5. Gently fold in the dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into bars.
9. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

3. Pumpkin Seed Crusted Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Cooking oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, pulse the roasted pumpkin seeds until finely ground.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine the ground pumpkin seeds, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Press the chicken breast into the pumpkin seed mixture, coating it evenly on both sides.
6. Place the coated chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken breasts with cooking oil.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
9. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Conclusion

Incorporating pumpkin seeds into your baking endeavors can add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor to a variety of recipes. From muffins to granola bars and even as a crust for chicken, the versatility of pumpkin seeds makes them a wonderful ingredient to keep on hand in your pantry. So, the next time youre feeling creative in the kitchen, consider giving these pumpkin seed baking recipes a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use raw pumpkin seeds instead of roasted ones?

Absolutely! If you prefer the flavor and texture of raw pumpkin seeds, feel free to use them in these recipes. However, keep in mind that roasting the seeds enhances their nutty taste and crunchiness.

2. Are pumpkin seeds a healthy snack?

Yes! Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and various essential minerals. They are also rich in antioxidants and may offer several health benefits, including promoting heart health and supporting a healthy immune system.

3. Can I substitute almond butter with another nut butter?

Certainly! Almond butter can be replaced with peanut butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter of your choice, depending on your personal preference or dietary restrictions.

4. How long can I store the pumpkin seed granola bars?

When stored in an airtight container, these granola bars can typically be enjoyed for up to a week. However, they may disappear quickly due to their deliciousness!

5. Can I freeze the pumpkin seed-crusted chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the pumpkin seed-crusted chicken before baking it. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before proceeding with the baking instructions mentioned in the recipe.