Description
Caramel Apple Popcorn is a cozy fall snack that perfectly blends the crunchy lightness of popcorn with sweet, buttery caramel and the tangy crispness of apples. This simple yet delicious treat captures the essence of autumn, making it perfect for chilly evenings, Halloween parties, or any festive gathering. Easy to make with pantry staples and customizable to suit dietary preferences, it offers a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and fruity flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Popcorn Base
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Apple Component
- 1 cup dried apple chips or 1 cup finely diced fresh apples
Optional Add-ins and Variations
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (nutty twist)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (spiced up)
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for dairy-free version
- Use vegan-friendly syrup instead of corn syrup for vegan version
- 1/4 cup melted dark or white chocolate for drizzle
Instructions
- Pop the Perfect Popcorn: Pop 1/2 cup popcorn kernels using a stovetop method or air popper to achieve light, fluffy popcorn without any added flavors or oils. Set aside in a large bowl.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup butter and 2 cups packed brown sugar together. Stir gently, then add 1/2 cup light corn syrup and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Let it bubble for about 3-5 minutes until thick and smooth.
- Add Flavor Boosters: Remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly stir in 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This will lighten the caramel and add depth to the flavor.
- Combine Popcorn and Caramel: Pour the warm caramel sauce over the popped popcorn in the large bowl. Gently fold the mixture to coat every kernel evenly with the caramel.
- Mix in Apple Components: Sprinkle in 1 cup dried apple chips or 1 cup finely diced fresh apples. Gently toss the mixture to combine, distributing the apple pieces throughout the caramel-coated popcorn.
- Bake to Set: Spread the popcorn mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and texture development.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the popcorn to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, break into clusters and serve or store as desired.
Notes
- Use fresh popcorn kernels for maximum crunch and best caramel adherence.
- Stir the caramel sauce gently and consistently to avoid burning.
- Do not skip the baking soda—it creates an airy, chewy caramel texture.
- Coat the popcorn quickly once caramel is ready as it hardens fast.
- Cool the popcorn completely before storing to prevent clumping and maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: caramel apple popcorn, fall snack, autumn treat, popcorn recipe, caramel popcorn, apple popcorn, gluten free snack