Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Maple Pumpkin Spice Popcorn is not only simple to make, but it also captures the essence of fall in every bite. With just four ingredients and a quick cooking process, you’ll have a delicious homemade snack in minutes. It’s a lighter, less sticky version of traditional caramel corn and is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup (or pancake syrup as an alternative)
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 5 cups popped plain popcorn
Directions
-
In a large pot, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice.
-
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously for about 3 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
-
Stir in the butter until melted and the mixture is well blended.
-
Remove from heat and immediately pour the spiced syrup over the popped popcorn.
-
Gently stir until all the popcorn is evenly coated.
-
Serve and enjoy, preferably while warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
-
Nutty Crunch: Add roasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a spicy-sweet combo.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: Once the popcorn is coated and cooled slightly, drizzle with melted white or dark chocolate.
-
Vegan Version: Use a plant-based butter to make this recipe completely vegan.
-
Salty-Sweet: Sprinkle with a touch of sea salt after coating for a salty contrast to the sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
To store: Keep the popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To reheat: If you want to enjoy it warm again, place the popcorn on a baking sheet and warm it in a 250°F (120°C) oven for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
1. What type of popcorn should I use?
Plain air-popped or stovetop-popped popcorn works best for this recipe. Avoid pre-flavored or microwave varieties with butter or salt.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, just substitute the butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil.
3. How do I keep the popcorn from getting soggy?
Make sure the syrup mixture is bubbling before removing it from heat, and stir thoroughly to coat evenly without excess moisture.
4. Can I use pancake syrup instead of maple syrup?
Yes, pancake syrup works fine, though real maple syrup provides a deeper flavor.
5. How long does this popcorn stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for about 3 days.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your pot is large enough to mix the popcorn and coating thoroughly.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check your specific products to be sure.
8. Can I add food coloring for a festive look?
Yes, a drop or two of food coloring can be added to the syrup mixture before pouring over popcorn.
9. Can I use microwave popcorn?
Only if it’s plain and unsalted. Avoid buttered or flavored varieties.
10. What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
You can make your own with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Conclusion
Maple Pumpkin Spice Popcorn is the ultimate fall snack that brings together the sweet, warm, and cozy flavors of the season. With minimal ingredients and quick prep time, it’s an easy treat that can elevate any autumn day. Whether you’re sharing it at a party or enjoying it on the couch with a movie, this popcorn is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Print
Maple Pumpkin Spice Popcorn
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Maple Pumpkin Spice Popcorn is a cozy, fall-inspired snack that blends the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the sweetness of maple syrup and brown sugar. It’s a quick, easy treat perfect for autumn gatherings or movie nights.
Ingredients
2 Tbsp brown sugar
2 Tbsp maple syrup (or pancake syrup)
1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 Tbsp butter
5 cups popped plain popcorn
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously for about 3 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Stir in the butter until melted and the mixture is well blended.
- Remove from heat and immediately pour the spiced syrup over the popped popcorn.
- Gently stir until all the popcorn is evenly coated.
- Serve and enjoy, preferably while warm.
Notes
Add roasted nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch.
A pinch of cayenne or cinnamon can add a spicy kick.
Drizzle with melted chocolate after coating for a decadent variation.
Use plant-based butter for a vegan version.
Sprinkle sea salt on top for a salty-sweet combo.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 5 minutes if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
