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Easy Crunchy Bulk Popcorn Snack Mix Recipe Perfect for Movie Night

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A quick and easy crunchy popcorn snack mix that balances salty, sweet, and smoky flavors, perfect for movie nights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup popcorn kernels (240 ml)
  • 1½ cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans) (225 g)
  • ½ cup sunflower seeds (75 g)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60 g), softened
  • 2 tablespoons honey (30 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (5 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (5 ml)
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (2.5 ml), optional
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (2.5 ml), optional

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup (240 ml) of popcorn kernels and cover with the lid. Shake the pot gently every 15 seconds to keep kernels moving. When popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops (about 3-4 minutes), remove from heat and transfer popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Discard any unpopped kernels.
  2. In the same pot, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of butter over medium heat. Add 1½ cups (225 g) mixed nuts and ½ cup (75 g) sunflower seeds. Stir frequently and toast for 4-5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat promptly to avoid burning.
  3. Pour the toasted nuts and seeds over the popcorn in the mixing bowl. Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of honey evenly over the mixture. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon (5 ml) smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) sea salt, ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) ground black pepper, and ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) garlic powder (if using).
  4. Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, gently fold everything until the popcorn and nuts are evenly coated with honey and seasonings. Be careful not to crush the popcorn too much.
  5. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the popcorn mixture evenly on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even crisping.
  6. Remove from oven and let the snack mix cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer to a large serving bowl or airtight container.

Notes

Shake the pot every 15 seconds while popping to avoid burning and ensure fluffy popcorn. Toast nuts carefully to avoid burning. Use parchment paper on baking sheet for easy cleanup. Let the mix cool completely to achieve maximum crunch. Adjust honey and salt to taste. Variations include adding chili powder, using maple syrup for vegan option, or adding dried fruit or chocolate chips after baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: popcorn snack mix, crunchy popcorn, movie night snack, easy popcorn recipe, bulk snack mix, sweet and salty popcorn