This fun snack mixes popcorn with sweet, crunchy caramel that tastes like apple pie, with a special hint of bourbon. Perfect for movie nights or just a cozy afternoon treat!
Believe me, your taste buds will be dancing—it’s like a party in every bite! I love munching on this while binge-watching my favorite shows. Who needs a regular snack when you have this yumminess?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Popcorn: Popped popcorn is the base of your snack. Use air-popped popcorn for a lighter treat, or microwave popcorn if you’re short on time! I recommend avoiding flavored varieties to keep the flavors in check.
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts are fantastic for crunch. If you’re nut-free, try using pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead! They add great texture and taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option or dairy-free choice, use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. It can add a unique flavor!
Bourbon: The bourbon adds a nice depth of flavor. You can substitute with vanilla extract or apple cider for a non-alcoholic version, though it won’t have the same richness.
Spices: The blend of spices plus apple pie spice creates that classic pie taste. Feel free to adjust based on your preference. Cinnamon is a must, but if you’re out of nutmeg, you can double up on cinnamon.
How Do I Make Sure My Caramel Stays Smooth?
Getting the caramel sauce just right is key for your popcorn! Stirring the mixture constantly helps prevent it from burning. Here are the steps to keep that caramel smooth:
- Melt butter over medium heat, then gradually mix in the brown sugar and syrup.
- Keep stirring until the mixture starts to bubble gently—this shows it’s ready to boil.
- Let it boil for 3-4 minutes without stirring. This is when it thickens nicely.
- Remove from heat immediately to stop cooking and then quickly add bourbon and vanilla.
Ensure you cool the popcorn completely after coating it; this helps the caramel harden perfectly. Happy snacking!
Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Popcorn:
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted if preferred)
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves or allspice
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon apple pie spice (if available)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy treat will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to bake. So, set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes total to whip up this delicious Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature helps the caramel dry and become nice and crunchy.
2. Prepare the Popcorn and Nuts:
In a large mixing bowl, place the popped popcorn and chopped nuts. Give it a little mix to get them combined and then set it aside for now.
3. Make the Caramel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, stir in the brown sugar, light corn syrup, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (or allspice), and optional apple pie spice. Keep stirring until everything is blended!
4. Boil the Mixture:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it boil without stirring for about 3-4 minutes. This is where the magic happens, and it turns into a lovely caramel sauce. Just watch it carefully to avoid burning!
5. Add Bourbon and Vanilla:
Once the caramel sauce is ready, take it off the heat! Now stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract until it’s all combined. This step adds that yummy depth of flavor!
6. Combine with Popcorn:
Pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over your popcorn and nuts. Quickly toss or stir everything together gently so every piece gets a little love from that sweet sauce.
7. Spread on Baking Sheet:
Now, spread the coated popcorn and nuts evenly on your lined baking sheet. Make sure it’s in a single layer for even baking!
8. Bake Until Crunchy:
Pop the tray in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Remember to stir it every 15 minutes to help it crisp up evenly. You want it to be golden and crunchy!
9. Cool It Down:
When it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and move the popcorn to a cool surface or a large bowl to cool completely. The caramel will harden as it cools, making it perfectly crunchy!
10. Store and Enjoy:
Once completely cooled, break apart any large clumps. Store your Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn in an airtight container and enjoy it whenever you want a tasty treat!
This delightful popcorn adds a warm, indulgent twist to your snack time—perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying all by yourself. Happy munching!
Can I Use Regular Corn Syrup Instead of Light Corn Syrup?
Yes, you can! Regular corn syrup will work just fine in this recipe. Just be aware that it might be a bit sweeter, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure your popcorn and any additives (like nuts) are certified gluten-free. Check labels to be safe!
Can I Make This Without Bourbon?
Absolutely! If you prefer to skip the bourbon, you can substitute with more vanilla extract or some apple cider for a non-alcoholic version. It will still be tasty!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Popcorn?
Keep your Apple Pie Bourbon Popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want it to stay crispy, avoid refrigerating it as moisture can affect the texture.