If you’re looking to cozy up your snack time with something that shouts autumn in every bite, this Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine fluffy popcorn generously coated in a rich, buttery caramel infused with warm pumpkin pie spice that teases your taste buds with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This snack is not only deliciously addictive but also simple to whip up, making it a perfect treat for movie nights, holiday gatherings, or just a spontaneous fall-inspired indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance between sweet, spicy, and buttery goodness. From the crispy popcorn base to the smooth caramel glaze, each element combines to create layers of flavor and texture that will keep you coming back for more.
- 10 cups popped popcorn: The light and airy base that makes this snack wonderfully crunchy without being heavy.
- 1 cup light brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness with subtle molasses notes.
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup: Helps create that smooth, sticky caramel coating that clings perfectly to each kernel.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Brings richness and a luscious texture to the caramel sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Lightens the caramel and creates a tender, crisp finish.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the caramel’s flavor profile.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: The star of the show, infusing the caramel with cozy autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Popcorn
Start by preheating your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This low temperature helps the caramel dry and crisp. Meanwhile, pop your popcorn (about half a cup of kernels yields roughly 10 cups popped), and transfer it to a spacious mixing bowl. This sets the stage for a smooth, even coating.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Spice Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, light corn syrup, unsalted butter, and salt. Stir constantly to prevent scorching as the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Once the mixture reaches a boil, stop stirring and let it bubble for 4 minutes. This step is crucial to achieving a rich caramel consistency that will harden beautifully on the popcorn.
Step 3: Flavor and React
Remove the caramel from heat and quickly whisk in the baking soda, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Watch closely—the mixture will foam up as the baking soda aerates it, resulting in a lighter, crisp caramel. This is the moment when the spices release their warm aroma, filling your kitchen with all the feels of fall.
Step 4: Coat the Popcorn Thoroughly
Immediately pour the luscious pumpkin spice caramel over the prepared popcorn. Toss gently but thoroughly with a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure each kernel is evenly enveloped. Timing is key here to prevent the caramel from setting before covering every piece.
Step 5: Bake for Crisp Perfection
Spread the coated popcorn evenly on your parchment-lined baking sheet and slide it into the oven. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. This slow bake allows the caramel to dry and harden, giving each bite that satisfying crunch paired with a perfect, sticky coating.
Step 6: Cool and Break Apart
Remove the popcorn from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into large, irresistible clusters and get ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor!
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive flair, sprinkle a handful of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the warm popcorn before baking. A light drizzle of melted white chocolate after baking also adds a stunning contrast and a touch of creamy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the warm pumpkin spices.
Side Dishes
This Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe shines all on its own but pairs wonderfully with a hot apple cider or spiced latte. The warm beverages cut through the sweetness and complement the pumpkin spice notes, creating a delightful fall-themed snack experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this caramel popcorn in rustic mason jars tied with twine and a cinnamon stick for a cozy gift or party favor. Alternatively, pile it into a large bowl lined with a festive napkin for casual gatherings—you’ll want everyone to dig in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week, making it perfect to prepare in advance for special occasions or to satisfy repeated snack cravings.
Freezing
If you want to keep the popcorn longer, you can freeze it in a sealed container or freezer bag. Just be sure to thaw it at room temperature before serving. This method helps maintain its texture and keeps the caramel from becoming sticky or soggy.
Reheating
To refresh texture, spread the popcorn on a baking sheet and warm it in a 250 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the caramel regain its crispness without melting or burning the sugar coating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of popcorn?
Absolutely! Any plain popcorn—air-popped or stovetop-popped—works great for this recipe. Avoid pre-flavored or buttered popcorn to ensure the caramel and pumpkin spice flavors shine through.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, since popcorn and the caramel ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, this recipe is safe to enjoy on a gluten-free diet, provided your pumpkin pie spice blend does not contain any gluten additives.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped pecans, almonds, or even dried cranberries add texture and extra flavor. Add nuts before baking your coated popcorn to toast them lightly along with the caramel.
How spicy is the pumpkin pie spice in this recipe?
The pumpkin pie spice adds a gentle warmth featuring cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s perfectly balanced for those who love aromatic fall spices without any sharp heat.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, this recipe scales well. Just make sure you have a large enough mixing bowl and baking sheet to coat and bake the popcorn evenly. You might need to use two pans to avoid overcrowding the popcorn during baking.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe inspires you to bring the comforting flavors of fall right into your kitchen. It’s a simple yet spectacular snack that’s perfect for sharing with friends, enjoying on chilly evenings, or gifting to those you love. Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become one of your seasonal favorites. Happy snacking!
Print
Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 cups
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously sweet and spiced popcorn snack perfect for fall and holiday gatherings, featuring a homemade pumpkin spice caramel coating baked to crispy perfection.
Ingredients
Popcorn
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup kernels)
Caramel Coating
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Popcorn: Place 10 cups of popped popcorn into a large mixing bowl and set aside, making sure there are as few unpopped kernels as possible.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, unsalted butter, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture boils, then let it boil without stirring for 4 minutes to thicken.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the baking soda, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. The mixture will bubble up and become foamy, ensuring a light texture for the coating.
- Coat Popcorn: Immediately pour the hot caramel sauce over the popcorn and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
- Bake Popcorn: Spread the coated popcorn in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure an even caramel coating and crispy texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the popcorn from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet; the caramel will harden as it cools. Once cooled, break into clusters or pieces and serve.
Notes
- Store popcorn in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- For a festive twist, add chopped pecans into the popcorn before baking or drizzle with white chocolate after baking.
