Crunchy Pumpkin Pie Spice Roasted Chickpeas

Cozy Crunch: A Fall-Ready Snack That Feels Like a Hug

When the kitchen fills with the warm scent of cinnamon, you know fall has arrived. I reach for a jar of chickpeas, a handful of pumpkin pie spice, and a sprinkle of sea salt to create a snack that’s both satisfying and sneaky healthy. It’s the kind of treat you can munch on while you prep a cozy dinner or binge a sensory-friendly Netflix night with a blanket and a mug of tea.

This little batch checks all the boxes: crispy edges, a touch of sweetness from maple, and a linger of cinnamon-spiced warmth. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and totally snackable—grab a handful, lose yourself in the crunch, and pin it for later glory.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas, drained and pat-dried thoroughly — Tip: moisture is the enemy of crisp; drying well makes a big difference.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil — Tip: use a high-heat oil to help that final crisp.
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (or agave for vegan) — Tip: adjust to your sweetness preference; skip if you want a drier bite.
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice — Tip: if you don’t have a blend, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a pinch of cloves.
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt — Tip: salt brightens the spice and helps crispness.
• Pinch cayenne pepper (optional) — Tip: adds a warm zing; start small and taste as you go.
• Optional finishing toppings: flaky sea salt, sesame seeds, or hemp seeds — Tip: scatter after baking for extra crunch.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
2. Rinse and thoroughly pat dry the chickpeas. Any remaining moisture can steam rather than crisp them.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and cayenne if using.
4. Fold in the dried chickpeas and toss until every bean is evenly coated with the warm, fragrant mix.
5. Spread in a single layer on the prepared sheet, giving each bean space to crisp. Roast for 25–30 minutes, shaking the sheet halfway for even browning.
6. When edges turn deep golden and the centers look dry, remove from oven and let cool on the pan for 5–10 minutes. They’ll become crisper as they cool.
7. Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky salt or a handful of toppings if desired. Enjoy warm or at room temperature for the best crunch.

Tips & Variations

• Texture tweaks: if you want extra crunch, roast a few minutes longer, watching closely to avoid burning the edges.
• Flavor swaps: try a maple–brown sugar mix for a deeper sweetness or swap cayenne for smoked paprika for a savory twist.
• Spice power: start with 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice if you’re serving to guests who aren’t fans of bold spice.
• Gluten-free note: this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your spices are free from gluten-containing fillers.
• Make-ahead love: store cooled chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days; re-crisp for 5–7 minutes in a 350°F (175°C) oven before serving.
• Serving temperature: they’re delicious warm straight from the oven or cooled to room temp, perfect for a quick snack plate.

Serving Suggestions

These pumpkin pie spice roasted chickpeas shine as a standalone snack, but they’re also perfect sprinkled over salads, quinoa bowls, or roasted veggie plates for an extra crunch. Pair them with a creamy yogurt dip, hummus, or a tangy citrus dressing to balance the spice. They make a fantastic add-on for charcuterie-style boards with cheese, olives, and sliced apples.

For a full mini-meal, toss warm chickpeas into a veggie-packed bowl with greens, roasted squash, and a drizzle of tahini-lemon sauce. They also pair beautifully with grain salads for a cozy, fiber-rich lunch.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes. Soak dried chickpeas overnight, then cook until tender. Drain, pat dry thoroughly, and proceed with the recipe as written. Dried beans will take longer, but the crisp result is worth it.

How can I make them extra crispy?

Dry the chickpeas completely and spread them in a single layer with space between beans. A hotter oven for the first 15 minutes can help, and avoid overcrowding the pan.

How long do roasted chickpeas stay good?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days. Keep them away from moisture to maintain crunch.

Can I customize the flavor for different diets?

Absolutely. Omit maple syrup for a drier bite, or swap pumpkin pie spice for a cinnamon–nutmeg blend. For a spicier version, increase cayenne slightly. Always check spice blends for gluten if you’re sensitive.

Are these vegan and gluten-free?

Yes. The recipe uses plant-based ingredients and gluten-free spices. Just verify that your spice blend is labeled gluten-free if needed.

Can I freeze roasted chickpeas?

They’re best fresh, but you can freeze them after roasting for up to a month. Re-crisp in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

Crunchy, cozy, and incredibly snackable, these Pumpkin Pie Spice Roasted Chickpeas are a fall-friendly staple you’ll reach for again and again. They’re quick to put together, simple to customize, and Pinterest-ready in both flavor and vibe. Save the batch for after-school snacks, game nights, or a quick topping for bowls and salads.

Ready to share the warmth? Pin this recipe, batch it up tonight, and let the kitchen aroma do the talking. Your hungry crowd will thank you with every crunchy bite.