How to Make Maple Bacon Pumpkin Seeds

If you’re looking for a tasty snack, maple bacon pumpkin seeds are a fun and crispy choice. These little bites will capture the flavors of fall while using up those pumpkin leftovers.

This recipe addresses the need for a crunchy, sweet-salty snack while utilizing pumpkin seeds, offering an easy option for autumn gatherings.

I really enjoy making these when the kids want something crunchy. Sometimes, I’ve overcooked them a bit, but the bacon helps keep them rich and savory. They come out warm from the oven, filling the kitchen with that mouthwatering smell.

This recipe works quickly, taking just about 40 minutes from start to finish. With some simple ingredients, you’ll have a tasty treat that’s great for sharing or just enjoying yourself. If you’re hunting for something else to try, give my Caramel Cheese Popcorn a look!

Dietary Considerations

• This recipe is gluten-free because it uses only pumpkin seeds, bacon, maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
• The recipe contains bacon, so it is unsuitable for vegan diets due to animal product inclusion.
• This recipe is not keto or low-carb because maple syrup and brown sugar add significant carbohydrates.
• The recipe is vegetarian only if bacon is omitted or replaced with a plant-based alternative.
• The recipe is nut-free and dairy-free as none of the ingredients contain nuts or dairy products.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Balance The combination of sweet maple syrup and salty bacon creates a satisfying contrast that keeps you reaching for more. This recipe perfectly captures that sweet and savory vibe that everyone loves.
• Crunchy Texture Toasting pumpkin seeds gives them a crispness that makes each bite enjoyable. The added caramelization from the maple syrup and sugar creates a delightful crunch that adds to the overall satisfaction of this snack.
• Seasonal Treat There’s something about autumn that screams for pumpkin-inspired snacks. This recipe channels those cozy vibes, making it ideal for fall gatherings or simply enjoying while watching a classic Halloween movie.
• Make-Ahead Convenience You can prep the ingredients beforehand, making these tasty pumpkin seeds an easy addition when time is tight. They store well, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of fall long after the season has passed.

Print

How to Make Maple Bacon Pumpkin Seeds

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Charlene
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cool Time:
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Sweet and salty maple bacon pumpkin seeds recipe that combines crunchy textures with a delightful flavor balance.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 ounces (1 1/2 cups / approx. 142 g) unsalted roasted pumpkin seeds
• 8 slices bacon, thick-cut
• 2 tablespoons (approx. 30 ml) melted bacon grease, reserved from cooked bacon
• 6 teaspoons (approx. 30 ml) pure maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons (approx. 10 ml) maple flavoring (optional)
• 1 teaspoon (4 g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) salt

Cook Mode

---

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook 8 slices of bacon either in a skillet on the stovetop or in a 400°F (204°C) oven for approximately 20 minutes until crispy. Once cooked, transfer bacon to paper towels to drain. Reserve 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of melted bacon grease from the pan for the seeds.
   
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine 5 ounces (1 1/2 cups) unsalted roasted pumpkin seeds with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) melted bacon grease, 6 teaspoons (30 ml) pure maple syrup, 2 teaspoons (10 ml) maple flavoring if using, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) light corn syrup, and 1 teaspoon (4 g) granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly until the pumpkin seeds are evenly coated.
   
3. Step 3: Spread coated pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 275°F (135°C) oven for 10 minutes. About halfway through baking, use a spatula to flip and toss the seeds for even roasting. Look for the seeds to start feeling slightly sticky as a visual cue.
   
4. Step 4: Reduce oven temperature to 250°F (121°C). Bake the seeds for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, flipping and tossing once halfway through. Watch for golden edges as an indicator of proper caramelization.
   
5. Step 5: While the seeds are baking, finely chop or crumble the reserved cooked bacon and combine with 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) salt in a food processor. Process until small crumbs form to create bacon salt. Adjust salt quantities to taste if preferred.
   
6. Step 6: Remove the pumpkin seeds from the oven and allow to cool slightly. While still warm, toss the seeds with the prepared bacon salt. Continue occasionally tossing with a spatula until the seeds cool and harden slightly, developing a mild candied, crunchy texture.
   

---

Notes

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain crispness and flavor.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days to slow moisture absorption and flavor loss.
• Freezing: Wrap seeds tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, place in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• If seeds stick to the baking sheet, use parchment paper for easier removal before adding the maple bacon coating.
• For uneven caramelization, check at the 10-minute mark and use a spatula to flip the seeds completely for even coating.
• If seeds remain chewy and not crispy after the full baking time, continue baking in 5-minute intervals until desired crunchiness is reached.
• If too salty, add an additional teaspoon of granulated sugar before tossing with bacon salt to balance flavors.
• If seeds become too cool and lose crunch, briefly return them to a warm oven for a few minutes to regain crispness.
• Serve with vegetable sticks or gluten-free crackers for extra crunch.
• Pair with tangy yogurt dips or hummus to balance the sweet and savory flavors.
• Use as part of a trail mix, sprinkle over salads, add to granola bars, or mix into savory popcorn.
• Optional garnishes include drizzles of hot sauce, ranch dressing, grated cheese, or fresh herbs.

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Ingredient Notes

• Pumpkin seeds: Look for raw, unseasoned pumpkin seeds for the best flavor. They add crunch and nutrition, making them the star of this snack.
• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon to achieve a satisfying crispness. It adds a savory, smoky flavor that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Maple syrup: Opt for 100% pure maple syrup for genuine flavor. It’s important for adding sweetness and a rich maple essence to the seeds.
• Olive oil: Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the roasting process. It helps achieve the right texture and allows spices to adhere.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances warmth and sweetness, fitting perfectly with the fall flavors. Make sure it’s fresh for the best aroma.
• Brown sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works well for added moisture and a subtle molasses flavor. It caramelizes nicely during roasting.
• Pumpkin seeds: Look for raw, unseasoned pumpkin seeds for the best flavor. They add crunch and nutrition, making them the star of this snack.
• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon to achieve a satisfying crispness. It adds a savory, smoky flavor that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Maple syrup: Opt for 100% pure maple syrup for genuine flavor. It’s important for adding sweetness and a rich maple essence to the seeds.
• Olive oil: Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the roasting process. It helps achieve the right texture and allows spices to adhere.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances warmth and sweetness, fitting perfectly with the fall flavors. Make sure it’s fresh for the best aroma.
• Brown sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works well for added moisture and a subtle molasses flavor. It caramelizes nicely during roasting.

Recipe Tips

1. If seeds stick to the baking sheet, use parchment paper for easy removal before adding the maple bacon mixture.
2. When caramelization is uneven, check halfway through baking at 10 minutes and use a spatula to flip the seeds for even coating.
3. If the seeds aren’t crispy after 25 minutes of baking, continue baking in 5-minute intervals until they reach your desired crunch.
4. For overly salty seeds, adjust the bacon salt by adding an extra teaspoon of granulated sugar before tossing to balance flavors.
5. If seeds cool down too quickly and become chewy, allow them to rest in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple side of vegetable sticks or gluten-free crackers for added crunch. Pair with a tangy yogurt dip or hummus for balance.

Use to make a tasty trail mix or sprinkle over a salad for extra crunch. Add to granola bars or mix into a savory popcorn recipe for variety.

Top with a drizzle of hot sauce or your favorite ranch dressing for added flavor. Consider a sprinkle of grated cheese or fresh herbs for finishing touches.

Recipe variations

• You can use raw pumpkin seeds instead of roasted seeds, but adjust baking time slightly to ensure even roasting after coating with bacon grease, maple syrup, sugar, and corn syrup.
• Add cinnamon or smoked paprika to the mixture, using about 1/2 teaspoon each, to change the flavor profile while keeping the maple syrup and bacon grease quantities unchanged.
• Either turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon alternatives work instead of traditional bacon; if using these, reduce bacon grease to 1 tablespoon and adjust cooking time accordingly.
• If making a larger batch, double all ingredients to 3 cups pumpkin seeds, 16 bacon slices, 4 tablespoons bacon grease, 12 teaspoons maple syrup, 2 teaspoons sugar, and 2 teaspoons corn syrup, baking longer.

How to Store?

To keep your maple bacon pumpkin seeds fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store maple bacon pumpkin seeds in an airtight container at room temperature up to 2 days to maintain crispness and flavor.

Refrigeration: Place seeds in an airtight container inside the refrigerator up to 7 days, which slows moisture absorption and flavor loss.

Freezing: Wrap seeds in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, place in a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Toasted Coconut Marshmallows
• Smores Cupcakes with Torched Marshmallow
• Chocolate Peanut Clusters
• Honey Nut Clusters

If you enjoyed this Maple Bacon Pumpkin Seeds or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. I appreciate taking time to read about this recipe, thank you!