Go Back
For this warm apple cider caramel popcorn, you will need: - 1 cup popcorn kernels (about 12 cups popped popcorn) - 1 cup apple cider - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup unsalted butter - 1/4 cup light corn syrup - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) You can make this treat even more fun! Here are some ideas: - Dried Apples: Add small pieces for extra apple flavor. - Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle on top. - Spices: Try adding ginger or cloves for a warm kick. - Caramel Corn Mix: Combine with different nuts or candy for variety. To create this tasty snack, gather these tools: - Air popper or large pot for popping corn - Medium saucepan for reducing cider - Large saucepan for making caramel - Baking sheet lined with parchment paper - Spatula or wooden spoon for mixing - Oven to bake the popcorn mixture Start by popping the popcorn kernels. You can use an air popper or pop them on the stove. Follow the package instructions closely. Once you pop the corn, spread it out evenly on a large baking sheet. Make sure to use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Next, let’s prepare the apple cider. Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it boils, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer until it reduces to about 1/2 cup. This usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and remove it from the heat when it’s done. Let it cool slightly before using. Now, it’s time to make the caramel. In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of light corn syrup, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture boil while stirring continuously. Once it starts to boil, stop stirring. Let it boil for 4 to 5 minutes without stirring. Watch for it to turn a deep golden color. When it's ready, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the reduced apple cider, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. The mix will bubble up a lot, so stir it gently until combined. Now, you’re ready to coat the popcorn! To coat the popcorn evenly, work fast. Pour the warm caramel over the popcorn right after you mix it. Use a spatula to gently fold the caramel into the popcorn. Make sure to lift from the bottom and turn the popcorn over. This helps every piece get a nice layer of caramel. If you take too long, the caramel will harden. Keep an eye on the caramel while it cooks. Stir until it boils, then stop stirring. Let it bubble for 4-5 minutes. Check the color; it should be deep golden brown, not dark brown. If it gets too dark, it will taste burnt. If you smell a strong scent, it’s likely burning. Remove it from the heat right away. For a fun presentation, use festive paper cones or clear jars. Tie them with ribbons for a sweet touch. You can sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon on top for decoration. Serve them at parties or as gifts. This popcorn will be a crowd-pleaser! {{image_2}} If you need a nut-free treat, leave out the pecans. You can replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy twist. Both options add a nice texture without the nut risk. To boost the flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the caramel mix. You can also sprinkle in a bit of ground ginger for a warm kick. For a sweeter twist, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the popcorn before baking. For a non-dairy version, swap the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter spread. Use a plant-based milk in place of the apple cider for a unique taste. Almond milk or oat milk can work well, keeping the treat creamy and delicious. To keep your Warm Apple Cider Caramel Popcorn fresh, store it in an airtight container. A glass jar or a plastic container works well. Make sure to seal it tightly. This helps keep the popcorn crunchy and flavorful. Avoid storing it in a warm or humid place. When stored properly, this popcorn lasts about one week. If you keep it in the fridge, it may last a bit longer, but it might lose some crunch. Check for any signs of softness. If it feels soft, it’s time to toss it. If your popcorn loses its crunch, you can reheat it. Spread it on a baking sheet and heat it in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10 minutes. This brings back the crisp texture. Make sure to watch it closely to avoid burning. Enjoy your snack warm and fresh! Yes, you can use microwave popcorn. Just pop it as directed on the bag. Make sure it is plain, without butter or extra flavors. This will let the warm apple cider caramel shine through. If you want to swap out butter, try using coconut oil or vegan butter. Both will add a nice flavor. They will help to create that rich, gooey caramel texture. Absolutely! Feel free to use nuts like walnuts or almonds. You can even skip the nuts if you prefer a nut-free treat. Just make sure to adjust the amount if you add more or less. Yes, this recipe is gluten-free! All the ingredients used, like popcorn and sugar, are gluten-free. Just be sure to check your corn syrup brand to confirm it is also gluten-free. We explored how to create delicious caramel popcorn from start to finish. You learned about the key ingredients, optional add-ins, and the tools you need. I shared step-by-step instructions that help you pop the corn, reduce the cider, and make rich caramel. Our tips ensure an even coating and prevent burnt caramel. Consider the variations for nut-free, dairy-free, and flavorful treats. Finally, I covered the best storage practices and answered common questions. Now, you have all the tools to make great caramel popcorn, so enjoy every crunchy bite!

Warm Apple Cider Caramel Popcorn

Indulge in the cozy flavors of autumn with this Warm Apple Cider Caramel Popcorn recipe! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that perfectly blends the sweetness of caramel and the warmth of apple cider. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Click to discover the full instructions and wow your guests with this tasty snack!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup popcorn kernels (about 12 cups popped popcorn)

1 cup apple cider

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup light corn syrup

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions
 

Pop the Popcorn: In an air popper or on the stove, pop the popcorn kernels according to the package instructions. Spread the popped popcorn evenly on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

    Prepare the Apple Cider: In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until reduced to 1/2 cup. This should take about 15-20 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

      Make the Caramel: In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, corn syrup, and a pinch of salt. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, stop stirring and let it boil for 4-5 minutes without agitation until it reaches a deep golden color.

        Combine Caramel with Cider: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the reduced apple cider, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Mix until well combined.

          Coat the Popcorn: Immediately pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir to coat all the popcorn evenly. If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans throughout the mixture.

            Bake the Popcorn: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Bake the popcorn mixture for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.

              Cool and Serve: Remove the caramel popcorn from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break into clusters and serve in festive bowls or jars.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 8-10

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the Warm Apple Cider Caramel Popcorn in festive paper cones or clear glass jars tied with a ribbon for a charming treat. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for an added touch!