Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the popcorn: Air-pop 10 cups of popcorn, ensuring it is completely cooled before proceeding. Remove any unpopped kernels.
- Melt the white chocolate: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, use a double boiler.
- Incorporate spices: Stir the ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice into the melted white chocolate until well combined.
- Combine popcorn and chocolate: Pour the melted spiced white chocolate over the cooled popcorn in a large mixing bowl.
- Coat evenly: Using a rubber spatula or large spoon, gently fold the popcorn until it is evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Add dried fruits: Sprinkle the chopped dried apple slices and dried cranberries over the chocolate-coated popcorn.
- Mix well: Continue to gently fold until the dried fruits are evenly distributed throughout the popcorn mixture.
- Spread to cool: Transfer the coated popcorn mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spreading it out in a single layer to prevent clumping.
- Allow to set: Let the popcorn cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate briefly until the chocolate is firm.
- Break and serve: Once set, break the popcorn into bite-sized clusters and serve, or store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
1. Ensure popcorn is freshly air-popped and completely cooled to prevent it from becoming soggy when coated with the warm chocolate. Any residual moisture can cause the chocolate to seize or become clumpy.
2. When melting white chocolate, do so gently. Overheating can cause it to seize and become grainy. Use short intervals in the microwave, stirring well after each, or a double boiler over simmering water.
3. For an enhanced flavor profile, lightly toast the dried apple slices and cranberries in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them. This intensifies their fruit notes and adds a subtle nutty depth.
4. A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt sprinkled over the finished popcorn before it sets can beautifully balance the sweetness of the white chocolate and fruits.
2. When melting white chocolate, do so gently. Overheating can cause it to seize and become grainy. Use short intervals in the microwave, stirring well after each, or a double boiler over simmering water.
3. For an enhanced flavor profile, lightly toast the dried apple slices and cranberries in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them. This intensifies their fruit notes and adds a subtle nutty depth.
4. A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt sprinkled over the finished popcorn before it sets can beautifully balance the sweetness of the white chocolate and fruits.