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
Scale
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.
