Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Lightly coat a nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray, and set aside. Place the popcorn and, if desired, the almonds in a large bowl, stir to mix, and set aside.

Place the corn syrup and brown sugar in a 1-quart pot, and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved. Slowly pour the sugar mixture over the popcorn, and stir well to coat.

Empty the bowl onto the baking sheet, and spread out with a spatula or wooden spoon that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the popcorn starts to dry.

Remove the sheet from the oven, and cool for 10 to 15 minutes. (Although the popcorn will be sticky when removed from the oven, it will dry as it cools.) Break apart and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container.