Name: Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup kernels); 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup light corn syrup; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Get ready to fall head over heels for Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn! This irresistible treat delivers crispy, golden popcorn kissed with a luscious, spiced caramel coating that tastes like autumn wrapped around every bite. From its toasty crunch to the intoxicating aroma of pumpkin pie spice and vanilla, it’s a snack that turns even the simplest movie night into an occasion. Whether you share it during holiday gatherings or keep a secret stash for yourself, Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn is pure joy in a bowl!

Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how straightforward and fuss-free the components are for this recipe. Each ingredient plays a starring role—in flavor, texture, aroma, or that classic caramel popcorn sheen. Let’s break down what you’ll need, and why every item matters:

Plain popped popcorn: Use freshly popped kernels for the best crunch, and always sift through to remove any unpopped ones to protect your teeth!
Light brown sugar: Brings a rich, molasses sweetness that forms the foundation of our crave-worthy caramel.
Light corn syrup: Essential for creating a perfectly glossy caramel that won’t crystallize or turn gritty.
Unsalted butter: Provides a luscious, buttery backbone for the caramel and keeps it delightfully smooth.
Salt: Don’t skip this! Even a small amount sharpens flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
Pumpkin pie spice: This is the magic touch! It imparts warmth and cozy fall flavors in every crunchy handful.
Baking soda: A pinch causes the caramel to foam, ensuring it stays light and crisp on the popcorn rather than turning overly hard.
Vanilla extract: The vanilla rounds out all the flavors and gives the caramel that bakery-fresh aroma.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn

Step 1: Prep Your Popcorn and Baking Sheet

Start by turning on your oven to 250°F (120°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place your popped popcorn in a very large mixing bowl, taking a minute to remove any stray kernels so you don’t get a surprise crunch later on. This prep step ensures your Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn bakes up extra crispy and is easy to handle.

Step 2: Whip Up the Pumpkin Spice Caramel

In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, salt, and that all-important pumpkin pie spice. Stir gently and continuously until the butter melts and the whole mixture just starts bubbling—this infuses every element with warming spices. Once it’s boiling, set your spoon aside and let the blend bubble undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes. This step develops a deep caramel flavor without burning or grittiness.

Step 3: Add the Final Caramel Touches

Remove the pan from the heat, then stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. Get ready for a little kitchen magic: the mixture will foam and lighten in color—this is what will keep your Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn delightfully crisp instead of sticky!

Step 4: Coat the Popcorn

Immediately pour the caramel mixture all over your popped popcorn. Using a spatula or wooden spoon (and a gentle hand), toss and fold the popcorn, making sure every piece gets a generous covering. Don’t worry about perfection—the gentle bake that comes next ensures any missed spots will be deliciously chewy and caramelized.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spread your coated popcorn evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for a total of 45 minutes, giving it a good stir every 15 minutes so the caramel distributes evenly and bakes into every nook and cranny. This low-and-slow bake sets the caramel and locks in the crunch.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once done, let your Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn cool completely on the sheet before breaking it into irresistible clusters. The cooling process helps everything set, so you can enjoy that signature shattering bite with every handful!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn

Garnishes

For an extra special batch, try tossing in a handful of roasted pecans, or finish with a pretty drizzle of melted white chocolate after the popcorn has cooled. A little sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a restaurant-style finish and really amps up the contrast with the caramel sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pair this Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn with warm apple cider or spiced hot chocolate for the ultimate fall movie-night snack spread. It also loves hanging out with bowls of candied nuts, dried cranberries, or even little wedges of sharp cheddar for a salty-sweet twist.

Creative Ways to Present

This treat makes an adorable party favor or edible gift: portion it into clear cellophane bags, tie with a festive ribbon, and add a handwritten tag. For a fun party centerpiece, pile it high in a big, rustic bowl or fill small pumpkin-shaped cups for a playful, seasonal look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn at peak crispiness, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh for up to a week, making it perfect for grab-and-go snacking or pulling out when friends drop by.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can actually freeze caramel popcorn! Place completely cooled popcorn in a zip-top freezer bag, squeeze out as much air as possible, and pop it in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before eating—your snack will be just as crunchy as the day you made it.

Reheating

If your Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn softens over time, simply spread it on a baking sheet and warm it in a 250°F (120°C) oven for about 5 minutes. Let it cool before eating; the crisp texture will return like magic!

FAQs

Can I use microwave popcorn instead of popping my own kernels?

Absolutely! Just make sure to choose plain, unsalted, and unbuttered varieties whenever possible. If you use a flavored one, adjust the added salt and butter as needed to avoid overpowering the Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn flavor.

What’s the best way to avoid sticky or soggy caramel popcorn?

Baking the popcorn as directed in the oven at a low temperature is key. This step dries the caramel layer and gives you that crunchy shell instead of a sticky or chewy texture.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Yes, you can easily double or even triple the ingredients! Use a wide roasting pan or divide the batch between two baking sheets to ensure even coating. Just remember to stir frequently while baking to prevent sticking or burning.

Is there a way to make it vegan or dairy-free?

You bet! Swap the unsalted butter for your favorite plant-based alternative. Also, check that your sugar and corn syrup are vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn everyone can enjoy.

What other mix-ins can I add for variety?

Try mixing in toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, or even mini marshmallows once the popcorn has cooled. Experimenting with different add-ins lets you personalize each batch for the season or occasion!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about making Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn at home—every step fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and your heart with anticipation. Whether for a festive gathering or a night in, this treat always brings people together with smiles. Give it a try and let the irresistible crunch and autumn-sweet flavor become a new favorite tradition!

Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn Recipe

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4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 10 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and spiced flavors with this Pumpkin Spice Caramel Popcorn recipe. Great for fall gatherings or a cozy movie night at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Popcorn:

10 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup kernels)

Caramel:

1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup light corn syrup
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place popcorn in a large bowl.
Create Caramel: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Boil without stirring, then remove from heat and add baking soda and vanilla.
Coat Popcorn: Pour caramel over popcorn, mix well, spread onto baking sheet, and bake, stirring every 15 minutes.
Cool and Serve: Let the popcorn cool completely before breaking into clusters.