Pumpkin spice popcorn is a tasty autumn treat that's easy to make at home. You'll start by popping kernels in oil, then mix up a blend of cozy spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Coat your popcorn with melted butter and sprinkle on the spice mix, tossing to cover evenly. For extra crunch, you can bake it in the oven for about 20 minutes. This snack is perfect for movie nights or Halloween parties, and you can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. There's more to discover about this festive fall favorite!
Key Takeaways
- Pumpkin Spice Popcorn combines popcorn with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for a festive autumn snack.
- It emerged in the early 2010s, inspired by the popularity of pumpkin spice lattes.
- The recipe typically involves coating popped kernels with butter and a homemade pumpkin spice seasoning.
- Baking the coated popcorn adds extra crunch and ensures even flavor distribution.
- This versatile snack can be customized with additional ingredients like brown sugar, nuts, or dried fruit.
History
Pumpkin spice popcorn burst onto the snack scene in the early 2010s, riding the coattails of the pumpkin spice craze. You might remember when coffee shops started offering pumpkin spice lattes, and soon, the flavor was everywhere.
It didn't take long for creative snack makers to realize that popcorn could be the perfect canvas for this popular autumn flavor. The idea was simple: combine the warm, comforting taste of pumpkin pie spices with the satisfying crunch of popcorn.
Early versions often used a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to create that familiar pumpkin pie flavor. Some adventurous makers even added real pumpkin powder for an extra authentic taste.
As the trend grew, you'd find pumpkin spice popcorn popping up in gourmet shops, farmers markets, and even on grocery store shelves. It quickly became a fall favorite, perfect for movie nights, Halloween parties, or just as a cozy snack on chilly autumn evenings.
Today, you can find countless recipes online to make your own pumpkin spice popcorn at home, too!
Recipe
Pumpkin spice popcorn is a delightful autumn treat that combines the cozy flavors of the season with the satisfying crunch of popcorn. This recipe transforms plain popcorn into a sweet and savory snack that's perfect for movie nights, fall gatherings, or as a festive gift for friends and family.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a batch of this irresistible pumpkin spice popcorn. The warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves perfectly complements the subtle sweetness of the maple syrup, creating a balanced flavor profile that will have everyone reaching for more.
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (optional)
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, stirring until well combined.
Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl and drizzle the butter mixture over it, tossing gently to coat evenly. If using pumpkin seeds, add them now. Spread the coated popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even coating and crispness.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving or storing. For best results, use freshly popped popcorn as it will absorb the flavors better. If you prefer a stronger pumpkin flavor, you can add a tablespoon of pumpkin puree to the butter mixture.
Store the cooled popcorn in an airtight container for up to a week, though it's unlikely to last that long! This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger batches, making it perfect for fall parties or as a homemade gift.
Cooking Steps
You're about to embark on a tasty pumpkin spice popcorn adventure!
First, you'll pop the kernels in hot oil, then whip up a flavorful pumpkin spice seasoning.
Once your popcorn's ready, you'll coat it with the seasoning, drizzle melted butter over it, and bake it for extra crunch, transforming ordinary popcorn into a fall-inspired treat.
Step 1. Pop Kernels in Hot Oil
To get started, heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
You'll want to use a pot with a tight-fitting lid to keep those kernels from escaping once they start popping. Add a few kernels to the oil and cover the pot. These will be your test kernels to make sure the oil is hot enough.
Once you hear those test kernels pop, it's time to add the rest. Pour in about 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels, quickly replace the lid, and give the pot a gentle shake to distribute them evenly.
As the kernels heat up, you'll hear that familiar popping sound. Keep the pot moving by gently shaking it back and forth over the burner. This helps prevent burning and ensures all kernels pop.
The popping will start slow, then pick up speed. When it slows down again and you hear about 2 seconds between pops, it's time to remove the pot from heat.
Carefully lift the lid, letting the steam escape away from you. Pour your freshly popped corn into a large bowl, and you're ready for the next step!
Step 2. Make Pumpkin Spice Seasoning
While your popcorn cools, it's time to whip up the pumpkin spice seasoning. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves. These warm spices will give your popcorn that classic fall flavor you're craving.
Next, add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the spice mix. This will bring a touch of sweetness to balance out the spices. If you'd like a bit more kick, you can also add a pinch of ground black pepper. Use a whisk or fork to blend all the ingredients thoroughly, making sure there aren't any clumps.
Now, here's a pro tip: if you have whole spices, try grinding them yourself for an even fresher flavor. Just use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to crush them up. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Once you've mixed your seasoning, give it a quick taste test. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
Step 3. Coat Popcorn With Seasoning
Now that your popcorn has cooled and your seasoning is ready, it's time to combine them. Grab a large bowl or paper bag, whichever you prefer. Pour the popped corn into your chosen container, making sure there's enough room to mix without spilling.
Next, drizzle a bit of melted butter or coconut oil over the popcorn. This will help the seasoning stick better. Start with a small amount, about 2 tablespoons for every 8 cups of popcorn. Gently toss or shake the popcorn to distribute the oil evenly.
Sprinkle your homemade pumpkin spice seasoning over the popcorn. Begin with a little, then taste and add more if needed. You can use a spoon to sprinkle it evenly or put the seasoning in a shaker for easier distribution. Toss or shake the popcorn again to coat each kernel with the delicious spices.
If you're using a bowl, use your hands or a large spoon to mix thoroughly. For a paper bag, close the top and shake it vigorously.
Keep mixing until all the popcorn is evenly coated with the pumpkin spice seasoning. Your tasty autumn treat is now ready to enjoy!
Step 4. Drizzle With Melted Butter
The aroma of melted butter will elevate your pumpkin spice popcorn to new heights. To start, you'll need about 1/4 cup of unsalted butter for every 8 cups of popped corn.
Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until it's completely melted. Be careful not to overheat it, or you'll end up with a burnt taste.
Once your butter is melted, it's time to drizzle it over your seasoned popcorn. You've got a couple of options here. You can pour the butter directly over the popcorn in a large bowl, tossing gently as you go to ensure even coverage.
Or, for a more controlled approach, use a spoon to drizzle the butter over the popcorn spread out on a baking sheet. This method helps you avoid soggy spots and gives you a better view of how much butter you're using.
Step 5. Bake for Extra Crunch
After drizzling your popcorn with melted butter, you can take it to the next level by baking it for extra crunch.
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread your buttered popcorn in a single layer on the sheet, making sure it's not overcrowded. This allows the heat to circulate evenly, giving you that perfect crunch.
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and let it bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as popcorn can burn quickly! You'll know it's ready when the kernels turn a deeper golden color and you can smell that toasty aroma.
Every few minutes, give the pan a gentle shake to ensure even baking.
Once it's done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. The popcorn will continue to crisp up as it cools down.
You'll end up with popcorn that's not just deliciously buttery, but also irresistibly crunchy. It's the perfect base for your pumpkin spice seasoning!
Final Thoughts
With this delightful Pumpkin Spice Popcorn recipe, you've got a perfect autumn snack that's both easy to make and irresistibly tasty.
It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of the season without spending hours in the kitchen. You'll find that this treat is perfect for movie nights, after-school snacks, or even as a unique addition to your Halloween party spread.
Remember, you can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. If you prefer a stronger pumpkin flavor, add a bit more pumpkin pie spice. For those who like it sweeter, a dash of extra brown sugar will do the trick.
Don't forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.
This recipe is also a fantastic starting point for experimenting with other fall flavors. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of vanilla extract for a different twist.
You might even want to mix in some chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor. Whatever you choose, you're sure to create a snack that'll have everyone asking for more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Pre-Made Pumpkin Spice Mix Instead of Individual Spices?
You can definitely use pre-made pumpkin spice mix instead of individual spices. It's a convenient option that'll save you time and effort. Just be aware that the flavor might be slightly different from using individual spices, but it'll still be delicious.
How Long Does Pumpkin Spice Popcorn Stay Fresh After Making?
You'll find your homemade spiced popcorn stays fresh for about 1-2 weeks if stored properly. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. For best flavor, though, it's tastiest when enjoyed within the first few days.
Is Pumpkin Spice Popcorn Suitable for People With Nut Allergies?
If you've got a nut allergy, you'll need to be cautious. While pumpkin spice itself doesn't contain nuts, some recipes may include nuts or nut-based ingredients. Always check the ingredients or ask about potential cross-contamination before indulging.
Can I Make a Savory Version of Pumpkin Spice Popcorn?
You can definitely make a savory version! Try adding savory spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder to your popcorn. You'll get a warm, spicy flavor without the sweetness. Experiment with different spice combinations to find your favorite.
What Drinks Pair Well With Pumpkin Spice Popcorn?
You'll love pairing your popcorn with warm beverages like spiced chai or hot apple cider. For a cool option, try pumpkin ale or a creamy vanilla latte. Don't forget classic choices like coffee or hot chocolate too!
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