8 Pumpkin Seed Recipes Perfect for Fall—Cookies, Pesto Pasta, and More

Pumpkins and fall go hand-in-hand. They're a quintessential part of the overall experience, from going to the pumpkin patch and carving a fun design to making pumpkin recipes and sipping on pumpkin spice lattes. But if you're not adding some pumpkin seed recipes to the mix, you're seriously missing out.

There are so many ways to use and enjoy pumpkins. One of them that isn't talked about nearly enough is all the different pumpkin seed recipes you can make. Instead of tossing them in the garbage, they can be transformed into the perfect fall snack. Here are eight of our favorites to try this season.

8 Pumpkin Seed Recipes to Try

1. Pepita Guacamole

Spice up your guacamole recipe with a pumpkin seed twist! This pepita guacamole will delight your taste buds. Just add your favorite ingredients—avocado, onion, cilantro, and other desired spices. Then, sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top and serve with your favorite homemade salsa.

2. Vegan Pumpkin Loaf

Who doesn't love a good loaf? This pumpkin recipe is perfect for plant-based eaters because it doesn't require eggs. Once it's done, don't forget to add your favorite toppings (including pumpkin seeds!) for a delicious crunch. Serve warm on a cozy fall day, or store it in the fridge and gobble it up for a chilled weekday snack.

3. Oatmeal Chocolate Chunk Cookies with Toasted Pepitas

We speak for almost everyone when we say that a nice chocolate chip cookie is always a delicious treat—no matter what time of day you're eating it. This oatmeal chocolate recipe is to-die-for. Try adding pumpkin seeds for a nice salty crunch. Pro tip: You may want to make an extra batch—these will go quickly!

4. Vegan Kale and Pumpkin Seed Pesto

If you're a fan of pesto, this delightful kale and pumpkin seed version is something you'll want to try. With just a few simple ingredients—kale, pumpkin seeds, coriander, and chili—you'll have the perfect counterpart to your favorite pasta. You can also spread this creamy concoction onto a piece of toast.

5. Super Seed Buckwheat Waffles

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so it's crucial that it's packed with nutrients. These super seed waffles are the perfect recipe. All you need is some seeds (including pumpkin), buckwheat flour (or your favorite alternative), and coconut water. You'll be feeling satisfied until lunch!

6. Pumpkin Spice Butternut Squash Soup

Sometimes soup is the perfect lunch or dinner option for a chilly fall day. This version gets its creaminess from coconut milk and Greek yogurt. And the secret in making it extra tasty? Topping it with pumpkin seeds before serving.

7. Pumpkin Seed Granola

Granola is the perfect topping for yogurt, smoothies, açaí bowls.. .you name it. This option is so delicious you'll want to eat it by the handful. You just need pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and quinoa. Then for extra sweetness, add cranberries, raisins, or another dried fruit. Use pumpkin purée, coconut oil, and maple syrup to bind everything together and you'll have the perfect snack you can bring anywhere.

8. Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds

A story about pumpkin seed recipes needs at least one recipe focused on just the seeds themselves! This cinnamon sugar recipe is a little twist on its salty counterpart. With just granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, butter, or coconut oil, these may be your new go-to sweet tooth snack.