Prairie Popcorn Mix
About Prairie Popcorn Mix
Prairie Popcorn Mix is a delightful and flavorful snack that hails from the heartland of the United States. This mix is inspired by the vast prairies, where fresh produce and simple ingredients combine to create wholesome and delicious foods. Historically, snacks like these were enjoyed by settlers who creatively mixed available ingredients to craft satisfying treats during long days of work on the prairie.
Over time, Prairie Popcorn Mix has evolved, incorporating different nuts, dried fruits, and seasonings to enhance its flavor and nutritional value. It's a versatile snack perfect for gatherings, a cozy movie night, or even as an energizing midday treat. As you prepare this mix, get ready to embrace a taste of the heartland and enjoy a concoction that has delighted palates for generations.
Ingredients
- Popcorn - 8 cups of popped popcorn
- Pecans - 1 cup shelled
- Almonds - 1 cup, roasted
- Dried cranberries - 1 cup
- Pumpkin seeds - 1/2 cup, shelled
- Butter - 1/4 cup, melted
- Honey - 1/4 cup
- Brown sugar - 1/4 cup
- Ground cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
Preparation
Step 1: Pop the Popcorn
Begin by popping the popcorn. You can use an air popper or the stovetop method to prepare 8 cups of popcorn.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the popcorn, pecans, almonds, dried cranberries, and pumpkin seeds. Stir to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cooking
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the honey, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and the brown sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the salt.
Step 4: Combine with Popcorn Mix
Pour the warm mixture over the popcorn mix, using a spatula to gently coat all the ingredients. Take your time to ensure everything is well-coated.
Step 5: Bake the Mix
Preheat your oven to 250°F. Spread the coated popcorn mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even baking. Refer to your cooking timer to avoid burning.
Enjoying Your Prairie Popcorn Mix
Once the popcorn mix has baked and cooled, transfer it to a serving bowl or store in an airtight container. Prairie Popcorn Mix is best enjoyed with friends and family, making it perfect for parties or social gatherings. Pair it with a cool beverage or enjoy it as an on-the-go snack for a taste of the heartland wherever you are.
Storage Tips
To keep your Prairie Popcorn Mix fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should keep for up to one week, but we doubt it will last that long!