Description
Indulgent apple pie bourbon popcorn mix celebrates classic American dessert flavors with a playful twist. Sweet caramel notes and warm bourbon undertones create an irresistible snack you’ll crave at every gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Pecans and Nuts:
- 2 cups pecan halves
Caramel and Sweet Components:
- 1 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 3/4 cups brown sugar
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 3/4 cup salted butter
Spices and Liquids:
- 2 teaspoons apple bourbon
- 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon apple bourbon
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
- 3/4 cup popcorn kernels
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Crafting the bourbon-infused pecans begins with heating the oven to a moderate temperature. Whisk together the sugar, aromatic spices, and bourbon until smoothly integrated.
- Gently fold the pecans into the liquid mixture, ensuring each nut is generously coated.
- Distribute the pecans across a silicone-lined baking sheet, creating an even layer.
- Roast the pecans, rotating periodically to prevent burning, until they develop a deep, caramelized color and fragrant aroma.
- Allow the pecans to cool completely, transforming into a crisp, glossy treat that will be stored for later incorporation.
- Prepare the popcorn base by spreading kernels across two parchment-lined baking sheets in uniform layers.
- Create a rich caramel sauce by melting butter with pie spices, brown sugar, and corn syrup over medium-high heat.
- Let the caramel bubble without disruption, developing deep, complex flavors.
- Remove from heat and rapidly whisk in baking soda and bourbon, which will cause the mixture to dramatically foam and lighten.
- Drizzle the bourbon caramel evenly across the waiting popcorn, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
- Bake the coated popcorn, stirring midway to guarantee uniform crispness and flavor distribution.
- Once completely cooled, merge the spiced pecans and bourbon-kissed popcorn in a generous mixing bowl.
- Toss the components gently, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Notes
- Toast pecans carefully to enhance their rich, nutty flavor without burning, which can make them taste bitter and ruin the entire batch.
- Use freshly ground pie spice for maximum aromatic intensity, creating a more vibrant and complex flavor profile in the popcorn mix.
- Keep bourbon caramel mixture moving quickly after adding baking soda to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth, even coating on the popcorn.
- Store the mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its crisp texture and prevent staleness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg