Pumpkin Spice Popcorn at a Glance
Some people love it, others can’t stand it. But one thing’s for sure — pumpkin spice is an indisputable part of fall. That’s why we think pumpkin spice popcorn is the perfect way to get into the spirit of falling leaves, warm sweaters, and everything nice.
This popcorn recipe is designed to work with your Popper and pantry staples like butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Pumpkin Spice Popcorn Ingredients
- ½ cup popcorn kernels
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup brown sugar (goes in the sauce for extra depth)
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for extra warmth)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted, for crunch)
Directions
Step 1: Heat
Preheat your oven to 250°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Set your burner to medium heat, place the Popper over it, and let it preheat for 1-2 minutes.
Step 2: Add Oil and Kernels
Add coconut oil to the Popper, let it melt, and add 3 test kernels. When the first kernel pops, pour in the rest of the kernels along with the salt and cover your Popsmith.
Step 3: Turn
Turn the crank clockwise while the kernels pop to prevent burning.
Step 4: Remove
When popping slows to 1-2 seconds between pops, take the Popper off the stove and pour the popcorn into a large bowl.
Step 5: Toast the Nuts
While the popcorn pops, toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Set aside. They’ll bake a little more later, so pull them before they darken.
Step 6: Make Pumpkin Spice Coating
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the maple syrup, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Bring to a steady bubble and simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly and the bubbles turn large and slow. (If you have a candy thermometer, you’re looking for about 235°F.) Then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 7: Combine Pumpkin Spice with Popcorn
Pour the coating over the popcorn in batches, tossing gently with a spatula after each, until it's evenly coated. Fold in the toasted nuts and spread everything in a single layer on your lined baking sheet.
Step 8: Bake to Set
Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring gently every 10 minutes, until the coating looks dry and glossy instead of wet. It will still feel slightly tacky when it comes out.
Step 9: Cool Completely
Let the popcorn cool on the pan for 15-20 minutes. Then break up any clumps.
Step 10: Serve
Your pumpkin spice popcorn is ready! Pair it with a chai tea latte, hot chocolate, or, you know, a pumpkin spice latte for double the fall fun.
Pumpkin Spice Popcorn Customization Ideas
- Extra candied: Double the sauce (butter, maple, and brown sugar) and bake for 40-45 minutes for a thicker, caramel-corn-style coating.
- Sweeter: Bump the brown sugar to ⅓ cup. It sweetens without thinning the sauce the way extra maple would.
- Spiced nuts: Toss your pecans or walnuts with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice while they toast.
- Coffee angle: Whisk ½ teaspoon instant coffee powder into the sauce with the spices for a “pumpkin spice latte” vibe.
- Savory twist: Reduce the maple syrup to 3 tablespoons and add ½ teaspoon sea salt to the sauce for a sweet-savory balance.
- Gift-ready: Make a double batch, cool it completely, and package in kraft paper bags tied with twine for a fall party favor.
Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice
We hope this gets you pumped (get it?) to make your own pumpkin spice popcorn!
Do you love pumpkin spice? What’s your fave fall treat? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to check out our other posts for more popcorn recipes and inspiration!
FAQs About Pumpkin Spice Popcorn
What is pumpkin spice made of?
Pumpkin spice doesn’t actually have pumpkin in it. It’s a combination of spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves — spices that flavor pumpkin pie.
What does pumpkin spice taste like?
If fall was a flavor, it would be pumpkin spice. It’s cinnamon-y, nutmeg-y goodness that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Yes. Once the popcorn has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep it sealed, because humidity softens the coating.
