Spiced Maple Caramel Corn

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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Spiced Maple Caramel Corn is that perfect combination of sweet, salty, and spicy that just screams comfort. With the warm scents of cinnamon and nutmeg mingling with the rich taste of maple, it’s the ideal snack for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.

Ingredients for Spiced Maple Caramel Corn

Popcorn kernels are the heart of this recipe, providing the essential crunch. The vegetable oil is used to pop the kernels, ensuring even heat distribution. Pure maple syrup is the star, offering a natural sweetness and distinct flavor that sets this caramel corn apart from the usual. Unsalted butter adds richness and helps create a smooth caramel. Light brown sugar deepens the sweetness with its molasses notes. Vanilla extract enhances the flavors with warmth. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg introduce subtle spice elements that make the popcorn cozy and inviting. Baking soda is a little science trick, making the caramel airy and easy to coat onto the popcorn. Lastly, sea salt balances the sweetness, and pecans (if you choose to use them) add a delightful nutty crunch.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh kernels for the best popping results — stale kernels may not pop as well.
  • Keep a close eye on the caramel while heating to prevent burning.
  • For even coating, use a large mixing bowl to toss the popcorn with caramel.
  • If you like extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel mix.

Serving Suggestions

For a festive touch, serve this spiced maple caramel corn in decorative bowls at your next holiday party. It pairs wonderfully with mulled cider or a hot toddy. If you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the cooled caramel corn for an extra layer of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use microwave popcorn instead?
While possible, stovetop popcorn gives you better control over the oil and flavor. If using microwave popcorn, choose a plain variety.
How long does the caramel corn stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to two weeks.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.

Spiced Maple Caramel Corn Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper — this ensures easy cleanup later. Grab a large pot with a lid and heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Toss in the popcorn kernels and cover the pot. Give it a shake occasionally, and listen for the popping to slow down. Once it does, remove it from heat to prevent burning.

Next, in a saucepan, combine the maple syrup, butter, and brown sugar. Stir it over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil, which usually takes a few minutes. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and sea salt until the mixture is smooth and foamy.

Pour this luscious caramel mixture over your popped popcorn, stirring thoroughly to coat each piece. If you're adding pecans, mix them in now. Spread the caramel-coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it's in a single layer. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Stir every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent clumping.

Once done, let it cool completely before you break it into pieces. This cooling step is crucial for that perfect crunch. Now, it's ready to enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Infused with rich maple syrup for a unique depth of flavor.
  • Perfectly crunchy texture with a hint of spice.
  • Easy to make in large batches for parties or gifts.
  • Customizable with your favorite nuts or spices.

Ingredients

1 cup of popcorn kernels
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 cup of pure maple syrup
1/2 cup of unsalted butter
1 cup of light brown sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
1 teaspoon of sea salt
1/2 cup of pecans, chopped (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and add popcorn kernels. Cover and shake occasionally until popping slows.
3. In a saucepan, combine maple syrup, butter, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat until mixture reaches a boil.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until smooth.
5. Pour caramel mixture over popcorn, ensuring an even coat. If using pecans, stir them in now.
6. Spread the coated popcorn onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
7. Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces and serving.

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