Spicy Caramel Popcorn with Cinnamon

Name: Spicy Caramel Popcorn with Cinnamon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup popcorn kernels; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and spicy with this delightful Spicy Caramel Popcorn with Cinnamon recipe. It's an irresistible treat for any occasion!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:03:19.417Z

This Spicy Caramel Popcorn with Cinnamon is an exciting twist on a beloved snack. The heat from the spices combined with the sweetness of caramel makes it a unique treat that is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a cozy evening at home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweetness and heat
Crunchy popcorn coated in rich caramel
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Spicy Caramel Popcorn with Cinnamon is not just a treat; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a movie night, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in an afternoon snack, this popcorn is sure to impress. Its unique blend of sweet caramel and spicy cayenne pepper makes it a standout choice for any gathering. You can easily whip it up in less than an hour, making it a convenient option for last-minute plans.

This popcorn is versatile enough to suit a wide range of tastes. The heat from the cayenne pepper contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the caramel, creating a flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more. It’s also a great way to introduce a little excitement to your snack table, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Easy Steps to a Flavorful Treat

Making Spicy Caramel Popcorn with Cinnamon is a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. The recipe begins with popping your own corn, which yields a fresher taste compared to store-bought options. Then, the caramel sauce is prepared using simple pantry ingredients, eliminating the need for complicated techniques. This ease of preparation allows you to focus on enjoying the delicious results.

Another advantage of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the level of spice by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper according to your preference. Furthermore, feel free to experiment with other spices or toppings, such as nuts or chocolate drizzle, to customize your popcorn creation!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Spicy Caramel Popcorn is baked and cooled, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This ensures that the popcorn remains crunchy and flavorful, ready to be enjoyed at any moment. Just be mindful not to expose it to moisture, as this can affect its texture.

For serving, consider presenting your popcorn in festive bowls or bags to make it an eye-catching centerpiece at your next gathering. Pair it with a refreshing beverage, such as iced tea or lemonade, to balance out the spiciness. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtful touch and delicious flavor!

Ingredients

For the Popcorn

1/2 cup popcorn kernels
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Caramel

1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the recipe!

Instructions

Pop the Corn

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the popcorn kernels and cover the pot. Shake the pot occasionally until the popping slows down.

Once done, remove from heat and pour the popcorn into a large mixing bowl.

Prepare the Caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil without stirring for 4-5 minutes, or until it turns a deep amber color.

Add Spices

Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the cayenne pepper, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up.

Coat the Popcorn

Pour the hot caramel over the popped popcorn and quickly toss to coat evenly. Spread the popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.

Enjoy your homemade spicy caramel popcorn!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to indulgent snacks, it’s essential to be mindful of nutritional content. While Spicy Caramel Popcorn with Cinnamon is a delightful treat, it’s good to know about its calorie content. Each serving offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, but moderation is key. Enjoy this snack in small portions to keep your indulgence on the lighter side.

The ingredients used in this recipe, such as popcorn and cinnamon, also offer some health benefits. Popcorn is a whole grain and a good source of fiber, while cinnamon has been linked to various health benefits, including potential anti-inflammatory properties. This means you can enjoy your sweet and spicy treat with a touch of guilt-free pleasure!

Variations to Try

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding nuts to your Spicy Caramel Popcorn. Chopped pecans or almonds can add a wonderful crunch and elevate the overall texture. Additionally, drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled popcorn can create a decadent flavor combination that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

For those who enjoy a milder flavor, you can replace cayenne pepper with smoked paprika or omit it altogether. This variation allows everyone to enjoy the sweet caramel taste without the heat. Similarly, you can experiment with different spices like nutmeg or chili powder to create your personalized version of this delicious popcorn.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes, you can use microwave popcorn, but ensure it is plain or lightly salted.

→ How should I store the popcorn?

Store the popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day ahead. Just store it properly to maintain crunchiness.

→ What if I don’t like spicy food?

You can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor.