A Homemade, Gourmet Popcorn Mix

Elevate your snack game with this gourmet, homemade popcorn mix that hits sweet, salty and just-the-right hint of spice. Picture fluffy popped kernels tossed with roasted cashews, fresh chopped rosemary, cayenne pepper, dark brown sugar and melted butter—an unexpected party blend that becomes irresistible once it’s out of the bowl.

This recipe takes typical movie-night popcorn and transforms it for entertaining—roasting the cashews in the oven, then quickly combining everything so you get warm crunch, herbaceous aroma and subtle heat in one mix. The result feels upscale and thoughtfully crafted, yet still easy to pull together in about 15 minutes. Because the core ingredients (popcorn kernels, cashews, rosemary, butter, sugar, cayenne) skip wheat and gluten-containing additives, this snack naturally works as a gluten-free treat when you select certified popcorn and cashews.

Whether you’re hosting friends, settling in for a movie night, or simply reaching for something beyond the usual bag, this popcorn mix becomes your go-to. It’s bold in flavor, elevated in style, and wholly snack-worthy.

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Homemade Gourmet Popcorn Mix

Recipe Details

Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Active Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Popcorn Mix Ingredients

• 3 cups cashews
• 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, coarsely chopped
• 1 3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
• 3 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 4 cups popped popcorn

How to Make the Gourmet Popcorn Mix

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Place cashews on baking sheet and roast in oven for about 7 minutes, or until golden.
3. Meanwhile, combine rosemary, cayenne, brown sugar, salt, and butter in large bowl.
4. Toss warm nuts and popcorn with rosemary mixture until fully coated.
5. Let cool before serving.

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Popcorn Mix Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 8 servings). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 serving (1/8 of recipe)
Calories	≈ 340 kcal
Protein	≈ 10 g
Carbs	≈ 20 g
Sugar	≈ 5 g
Fiber	≈ 5 g
Fat	≈ 27 g

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Popcorn Mix Variations & Tips

• Nut swap: Replace cashews with roasted almonds or pecans for a different crunch and flavor profile.
• Vegan version: Use melted coconut oil instead of butter and omit the brown sugar or replace with maple sugar to keep it fully vegan.
• Heat adjust: If you prefer milder snack, reduce the cayenne to ½ teaspoon; for more kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes.
• Herb alternative: Swap rosemary for thyme or sage for an herb variation while keeping the gourmet feel.
• Store it smart: Once cooled, store in an airtight container to maintain crispiness—most fresh and crunchy when served within 24 hours.

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Best Popcorn Mix Pairings

• Champagne or sparkling wine: The bubbles cut through the rich nuts and buttery popcorn for a chic snack experience.
• Gluten-free craft beer: A light, hoppy beer complements the savory spice and keeps the vibe casual yet elevated.
• Herbal iced tea with lemon: Refreshing and light—balances the buttery, spicy snack without overwhelming it.
• Dark chocolate squares (70%+ cocoa): Serve as a side treat—sweet and slightly bitter contrast with the savory popcorn mix.
• Fresh veggie crudités with hummus: Offer a crunchy side of carrots and cucumbers to accompany the snack and add color to the spread.

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When to Make Popcorn Mix

• Movie nights or streaming marathons: Skip the usual chips and offer this gourmet popcorn for a snack upgrade.
• Game-day or watching sports: A bold snack that stands up to the crowd energy and keeps guests reaching for more.
• Casual cocktail hour: Set out bowls of this popcorn alongside drinks—easy to nibble and sophisticated in flavor.
• Party snack platter or appetizer board: Include this mix on a board with nuts, cheeses, and fruits for a snack spread with flair.
• Holiday gatherings and entertaining: Perfect for festive snacking when you want something unique and crowd-pleasing without heavy prep.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont