Nothing screams Halloween season more than a homemade jack-o’-lantern perched on your front porch. From spooky faces to mystical designs, turning pumpkins into these iconic decorations is a classic tradition. Although carving the pumpkin is the most well-known part of the experience, there’s another fun tradition that many households also share.

Jack-o’-lantern scraps make the perfect base for cozy fall dishes and snacks. From pumpkin pies and soups to purees, there are endless ways to put those pumpkin “guts” to good use. Pumpkin seeds are traditionally washed, seasoned with salt and oil, and roasted for a familiar holiday flavor. But why not switch things up this year and season your pumpkin seeds like never before?

From savory to sweet, and spicy to tangy, we’ve gathered seven delicious seasoning ideas to roast your jack-o’-lantern seeds this season.

Roasting Instructions 

  1. Separate the pumpkin seeds from the pulp by straining them under cool water. 
  2. Pat the seeds dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. Allow them to air-dry for about one hour if necessary.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 
  4. Toss the seeds in olive oil or melted butter (about 1 tbsp per cup of seeds).
  5. Mix in your desired seasonings. (For this recipe, we’ll be using 1 cup of pumpkin seeds). 
  6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the seasoned mixture in an even layer. 
  7. Roast until golden and crunchy, about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. 
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving or storing.  

Seasoning Mixtures

Honey Sriracha: 1/2 tsp sriracha sauce, 1 tbsp honey, and a dash of salt.

Garlic Parmesan: 1 tsp garlic powder, 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese, and a dash of salt.  

Brown Sugar and Vanilla: 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp cinnamon, and a dash of salt.

Dill Pickle: 1 tsp dill, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp sea salt, 1 tsp ground pepper, and 2 tbsp dill pickle juice.

Ginger-Soy: 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tsp granulated sugar, and 1 ½ tsp ground ginger.

Olive Oil and Honey: 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp honey, and a dash of salt.

Cinnamon Sugar: 1 ½ tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and a dash of salt.