Pumpkin Spice Popcorn

Tis the season for pumpkin spice! Fall is a great time to gather together with your families, friends get together, and everyone eats copious amounts of food.

Pumpkin Spice Popcorn is a great way to enjoy your favorite movie or TV show with some delicious snacks.

History of Pumpkin Spice

You probably know that "pumpkin spice" flavor doesn't actually come from pumpkins, but you might be surprised to learn what does provide this unique taste of fall.

It's called "pumpkin spice flavoring," and it's made using the following ingredients: vanilla (to impart the creamy flavor that people tend to associate with pumpkin), cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, clove, and cardamom.

Yes, that is right, pumpkin spice isn't made from real pumpkin. The combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice is commonly used to flavor pumpkin dishes because it was initially designed to taste like pumpkin. (Cloves and mace are sometimes included as well.)

These various spices—some coming from all over the world—unbelievably combined to mimic the flavor of pumpkin.

And if you're wondering why Americans are so obsessed with this stuff in the first place, it might have something to do with the pumpkin pie spice blend made popular by Libby's, the brand that makes more than 75% of the world's canned pumpkin.

Now you combine America's love for Pumpkin Spice and its love for popcorn and you have something delicious.

FAQ

• Can store up to 10 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Want to make this recipe your own? Try adding vanilla extract, chocolate chips, or even nuts for a new twist!
• Have leftovers? Use them as Christmas gifts! Or if you're anything like me just eat it all yourself!

How to make Pumpkin Spice Popcorn more healthy?

You can replace coconut oil with olive oil. This will lower the saturated fat level to 1%. Also, you can use air-popped popcorn kernels instead of microwave one. Additionally, try adding nuts (almonds) which will add protein and good fats to your snack.

You don't need to wait for fall season to enjoy pumpkin spice.

This yummy treat is perfect year-round and can be shared with your family or enjoyed as a snack when you have the munchies. And, it's not just good on its own!

Try mixing in some white chocolate chips or adding cinnamon sugar - two of my favorite additions so far. What is your favorite type of popcorn?