Holiday Snack Mix Sesame Popcorn (Printable Version)

Savory, sweet blend of sesame popcorn and miso almonds. Perfect for parties or homemade gifts.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Popcorn Base

01 - 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
02 - 2 tablespoons neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola
03 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
04 - 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
05 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Miso Almonds

06 - 1 1/2 cups raw whole almonds
07 - 2 tablespoons white miso paste
08 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
09 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
10 - 1/2 tablespoon neutral oil
11 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Optional Add-Ins

12 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
13 - 1/2 cup wasabi peas
14 - 1/4 cup chopped nori sheets

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together white miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce or tamari, neutral oil, and ground black pepper until smooth.
03 - Combine raw almonds with the miso mixture, ensuring even coating. Spread almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Bake almonds for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and aromatic. Allow almonds to cool completely; they will crisp as they cool.
05 - Heat neutral oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add popcorn kernels and cover the pot. Shake pot occasionally until popping slows to 3 to 4 seconds between pops. Remove from heat.
06 - Drizzle hot popcorn with toasted sesame oil, then immediately toss with sesame seeds and sea salt for even seasoning.
07 - In a large bowl, blend the cooled miso almonds, seasoned sesame popcorn, and any optional add-ins. Gently toss until ingredients are evenly mixed.
08 - Enjoy fresh, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish
  • Perfect blend of sweet savory and umami
  • Uses simple store-cupboard ingredients
  • Easy to make ahead and transport
  • Great for holidays but delicious any time
02 -
  • High in plant protein and fiber
  • Easy to make gluten-free with tamari and careful label-checking
  • Stays crisp for up to one week if stored air-tight
03 -
  • Always use fresh popcorn kernels for the fluffiest result and listen carefully to avoid burning
  • Stir the miso-glazed almonds halfway through baking so every nut caramelizes perfectly on all sides
  • If adding nori wait until just before serving so it stays crisp and does not wilt in the mix
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