Harvest Popcorn
A delightful sweet and salty snack perfect for autumn gatherings. This easy recipe combines crunchy popcorn, salty pretzels, and classic candy corn, all tossed in a smooth white chocolate coating.
For 10 servings
5 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Pop the Corn and Prepare Mix-ins.
- b.In a large pot with a lid, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add 3-4 test kernels; once they pop, add the remaining kernels in an even layer.
- c.Cover and shake the pot gently every 30 seconds to prevent burning. Cook for 3-4 minutes until popping slows to one pop every 2-3 seconds.
- d.Immediately pour the hot popcorn into a very large mixing bowl, carefully leaving any unpopped kernels behind.
- e.Add the lightly crushed pretzels and candy corn to the bowl with the popcorn.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Melt the White Chocolate.
- b.Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
- c.Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. This should take 60-90 seconds. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the chocolate to seize.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Coat the Popcorn Mixture.
- b.Pour the melted white chocolate over the popcorn mixture. Sprinkle the salt evenly over the top.
- c.Using a large spatula, gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated in the chocolate.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cool and Set the Snack Mix.
- b.Quickly spread the coated mixture in a single, even layer onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- c.Immediately scatter the fall sprinkles over the top before the chocolate begins to set.
- d.Let the mixture cool completely at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Break and Serve.
- b.Once fully set, gently break the Harvest Popcorn into clusters of your desired size.
- c.Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To avoid unpopped kernels, pour the popped corn into your mixing bowl, leaving the last few kernels at the bottom of the pot.
- 2Work quickly once the chocolate is melted. It begins to set fast, so have your baking sheet and sprinkles ready to go.
- 3For easier cleanup, use a very large bowl for mixing. This prevents ingredients from spilling as you fold in the chocolate.
- 4If your white chocolate seizes (becomes thick and grainy), you can try stirring in a teaspoon of neutral oil or melted shortening to smooth it out.
- 5Ensure your popcorn is fully cooled before storing it in an airtight container to maintain its crispiness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Chocolate Lovers
Use a mix of white, milk, and dark chocolate chips. After the white chocolate sets, drizzle the melted milk and dark chocolate over the top for a decadent finish.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Add 1 cup of your favorite nuts, such as peanuts, pecans, or almonds, to the mix along with the pretzels and candy corn.
Holiday ThemedHoliday Themed
Customize this recipe for any holiday by swapping the candy corn and fall sprinkles for theme-appropriate candies and colors, like red and green for Christmas or pastel M&Ms for Easter.
Salty CaramelSalty Caramel
Melt a bag of soft caramels with 2 tablespoons of water and drizzle it over the popcorn mix along with the white chocolate. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Whole-Grain Goodness
The base of this snack is popcorn, a whole grain that provides dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health and can help you feel full.
Quick Energy Source
The carbohydrates and sugars from the candy corn, pretzels, and white chocolate provide a rapid source of energy, making it a fun treat for a quick boost.
Frequently asked questions
A 2-cup serving of Harvest Popcorn contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.