Air Fryer Cooking Guides
Airfryfeast
Air Fryer Paleo Pumpkin Seed and Herb Crackers
By Airfryfeast Test KitchenReviewed by Airfryfeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 6, 2026 · Updated Jun 16, 2026
American
25 mins
air-fryer-friendlypaleohealthygluten-freedairy-freeeasycrispsnackablebudget-friendlyfamily-friendly30-minutes-or-lessv2
Crunchy and flavorful paleo pumpkin seed crackers made easy in the air fryer. These gluten-free and dairy-free crackers are a healthy, quick, and crisp snack ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for paleo and family-friendly diets.
Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Total
25 min
Servings
12
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
American
Ingredients
Servings
12
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, helps crisping)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for brushing
Instructions
-
Place raw pumpkin seeds in a food processor and pulse until finely ground but still slightly coarse, resembling coarse flour.
-
Transfer ground pumpkin seeds to a medium bowl. Add ground flaxseed, chia seeds, sea salt, baking powder, chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, and onion powder. Mix well.
-
Pour warm water and 2 tablespoons olive oil into the dry mixture. Stir until a thick, pliable dough forms. If too dry, add water 1 teaspoon at a time.
-
Line a large sheet of parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil. Place dough on parchment, cover with another parchment sheet, and roll out evenly to about 1/8-inch thickness.
-
Remove the top parchment sheet. Score the dough into 2-inch squares or rectangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
-
Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Carefully place parchment with dough inside the air fryer basket or tray.
-
Air fry for 12–15 minutes, checking at 10 minutes. Crackers should be golden and crisp around edges but not burnt. Separate stuck pieces if needed and cook 1–2 minutes longer.
-
Remove crackers and cool completely on a wire rack to finish crisping.
-
Break apart along score lines once cool and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips
Air Fryer Model Notes
Cook Air Fryer Paleo Pumpkin Seed and Herb Crackers in a single layer when possible. Basket models may need batches; oven-style models may need a tray rotation halfway through for even browning.
Crispiness Control
Pat the raw pumpkin seeds dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.
Doneness Cues
Look for browned edges, a hot center, and the texture described in the instructions.
Reheat In The Air Fryer
Reheat leftovers at 325 F to 350 F in a single layer until hot and crisp again. Add fresh herbs, citrus, or sauce after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Air Fryer Paleo Pumpkin Seed and Herb Crackers ahead of time?
- You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
- How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?
- Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
- Can I adjust the seasoning?
- Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.
- How do I know the raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas) is done?
- Use the visual cues in the instructions first: the outside should be browned or crisp and the center should be hot and tender. For meat or seafood, confirm doneness with a food thermometer.
Ingredient Replacements
Customize these paleo pumpkin seed crackers with these ingredient substitutions to fit your dietary preferences or pantry:
- Pumpkin seeds: Swap for sunflower seeds or hemp seeds for similar texture and nutty flavor.
- Ground flaxseed: Substitute almond meal or ground chia seeds if preferred.
- Chia seeds: Can be replaced with ground psyllium husk or omitted though they help bind dough.
- Baking powder: Optional for extra crispness; exclude for strict paleo or use gluten-free baking soda alternatives.
- Olive oil: Use avocado oil or melted coconut oil for different flavor while keeping it paleo and dairy-free.
- Fresh herbs: Exchange rosemary and thyme with oregano, basil, or dill for varying herbal notes.
- Garlic and onion powder: Replace with fresh minced garlic or shallot, or omit for milder flavor.
These easy swaps maintain the crackers’ paleo, gluten-free, and dairy-free characteristics while offering flavor versatility.
Storage
Store leftover Air Fryer Paleo Pumpkin Seed and Herb Crackers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.
Freeze only if the main ingredient and coating are freezer-friendly. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in the air fryer at 325 F to 350 F in a single layer until hot and crisp again. Add fresh herbs, citrus, or sauce after reheating for the best flavor.
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