If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of fall but crave a fun and unexpected snack, the Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn Recipe is here to steal your heart. This delightful treat combines the nostalgic charm of apple pie spices, the rich smoothness of bourbon, and the addictive crunch of perfectly popped popcorn. With candied pecans and a caramelized brown sugar glaze, every bite bursts with that cozy, spiced sweetness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re curling up for movie night or looking for a gift that wows, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for sophisticated snacking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the seemingly long list intimidate you—these ingredients are straightforward and each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and nutty flavors, plus a texture that’s both crunchy and crave-worthy.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup, lightly packed): Gives a deep caramel sweetness and moisture to the glaze.
- Apple pie spice (1 teaspoon + 1 tablespoon): Blends cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove for authentic apple pie flavor punch.
- Apple Bourbon (1/4 cup + 3 teaspoons): Adds a boozy warmth and enhances the apple notes beautifully.
- Pecan halves (2 cups): Provide buttery crunch and richness.
- Popcorn kernels (3/4 cup): The crunchy base that soaks up all the luscious flavors.
- Salted butter (3/4 cup): Melts smoothly to create the glue that holds everything together.
- Corn syrup (3/4 cup): Ensures a glossy, sticky coating with a perfect chew.
- Brown sugar (1 3/4 cups): Works alongside light brown sugar to deepen the caramel flavor.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Creates lightness by aerating the caramel mixture.
How to Make Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn Recipe
Step 1: Pop the Perfect Popcorn
Start by popping your popcorn kernels in small batches to avoid burning and ensure every kernel pops fully. Use a heavy-bottomed pot with a little oil on medium-high heat. Once the popping slows to a few seconds between pops, remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels to avoid surprises later!
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
Next, warm your pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly toasted—this step intensifies their flavor and brings out their natural oils, adding a buttery flavor that complements the sweet glaze.
Step 3: Make the Apple Bourbon Caramel Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the salted butter over medium heat and stir in corn syrup, both brown sugars, and apple pie spice. Allow the sugar to dissolve while gently boiling the mixture. Then, carefully stir in the apple bourbon and baking soda—watch as the sauce bubbles up and becomes glossy and thick.
Step 4: Combine and Coat
Immediately pour the hot caramel sauce over the popcorn and toasted pecans. Use a spatula to gently fold the mixture, making sure every kernel and nut is evenly coated with that luscious, spiced glaze.
Step 5: Bake for that Perfect Crunch
Spread the coated popcorn mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure the caramel dries evenly and crispness sets in without burning.
Step 6: Cool and Break Apart
Once out of the oven, let the popcorn cool completely on the baking sheet. The caramel will harden slightly, creating clusters that are perfect for snacking. Break apart any large chunks for easier serving.
How to Serve Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra apple pie spice or chopped fresh apple slices on top for added aroma and freshness. A dusting of flaky sea salt can enhance the sweetness and balance flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This popcorn pairs wonderfully with warm apple cider, a sharp cheddar cheese platter, or even alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creative dessert twist. It’s versatile enough to complement both casual munching and elegant gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this batch of Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn Recipe in clear glass jars tied with rustic twine as charming gifts. Or pile it in a large bowl alongside cute paper cones for guests to grab and enjoy during a festive party or cozy movie night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your apple pie bourbon popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 5 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to store it longer, freeze the popcorn in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, let it thaw at room temperature; this helps preserve that signature crispness without becoming soggy.
Reheating
For a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, spread the popcorn on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 5-10 minutes. This will reactivate the caramel coating and restore some crunch without melting the clusters.
FAQs
Can I substitute the bourbon in the Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn Recipe?
Yes! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, try using apple juice or apple cider vinegar mixed with a little vanilla extract for a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol content.
How crunchy does the popcorn get after baking?
Thanks to the low-temperature bake, the popcorn ends up beautifully crunchy and holds together in clusters but isn’t overly hard. It’s the perfect texture between crisp and chewy caramel.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making my own?
While you can, making the caramel from scratch with apple bourbon and spices elevates the flavor profile and texture. Store-bought caramel tends to be sweeter and less spiced, which may alter the experience.
Is this recipe suitable for large batches?
Absolutely! Just scale up the ingredients proportionally and use multiple baking sheets during the baking step to ensure even coating and crispiness. It’s fantastic for parties or gift-giving.
What’s the best way to avoid burnt popcorn in this recipe?
Pop the kernels in small batches using medium heat so they pop evenly without burning. Also, keep an eye during the oven step and stir every 15 minutes to prevent any hot spots or caramel scorching.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the way the Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn Recipe brings together sweet, spicy, and boozy layers in one addictive snack. It’s perfect for savoring by yourself or sharing with friends and family during cozy nights or celebrations. Give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy popcorn!
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Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a unique twist on a classic snack with this Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn recipe. This sweet and crunchy treat combines the warm flavors of apple pie spice, rich bourbon, and toasted pecans coated in a luscious caramel-like glaze made from brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup. Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, this popcorn will delight with every bite of its buttery, spiced sweetness and crunchy texture.
Ingredients
Popcorn and Nuts
- 3/4 cup popcorn kernels
- 2 cups pecan halves
Syrup and Spice Mixture
- 3/4 cup salted butter
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
- 2 teaspoons apple bourbon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Topping
- 1 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
- 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon apple bourbon
Instructions
- Pop the popcorn: Using a large pot or popcorn maker on the stovetop, pop the 3/4 cup of popcorn kernels without oil or butter to avoid sogginess. Once popped, transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl, ensuring all unpopped kernels are removed. Add the 2 cups of pecan halves to the popcorn and mix well.
- Prepare the caramel syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the 3/4 cup salted butter, 3/4 cup corn syrup, and 1 3/4 cups brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a simmer and the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add flavorings: Stir in 1 tablespoon apple pie spice and 2 teaspoons apple bourbon into the caramel mixture. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.
- Incorporate baking soda: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in 1 teaspoon baking soda. The mixture will bubble and foam—this is normal and helps create a lighter coating on the popcorn.
- Coat the popcorn and nuts: Immediately pour the hot caramel mixture over the popcorn and pecans in the large bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold and toss the popcorn and nuts, making sure everything is evenly coated with the caramel sauce.
- Bake the popcorn: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the coated popcorn and nuts evenly onto one or two large baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake in the oven for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even baking and prevent burning.
- Prepare the topping: While the popcorn bakes, in a small bowl, mix the remaining 1 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed), 1 teaspoon apple pie spice, and 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon apple bourbon. This mixture will be sprinkled over the popcorn immediately after baking.
- Add topping and cool: Remove the popcorn from the oven and while still warm, sprinkle the bourbon apple pie sugar mixture evenly over the popcorn. Gently toss to distribute the topping as it adheres while warm.
- Cool and serve: Allow the popcorn to cool completely on the baking sheets. Once cooled, break apart any large clusters, transfer the popcorn to a serving bowl or airtight container, and enjoy your delicious Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn!
Notes
- Make sure to stir the popcorn while baking every 15 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even coating.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of bourbon to taste, but keep in mind it will mellow during baking.
- Store leftover popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain crispness.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with apple juice or cider.
