Caramel Popcorn

Popcorn has long been a favorite snack, beloved by moviegoers and casual snackers alike. Its light, airy texture and ability to absorb flavors make it a versatile treat, perfect for a range of occasions—from cozy movie nights at home to festive gatherings and holiday celebrations. Among the myriad of popcorn flavorings available, one combination stands out for its irresistible appeal: the marriage of sweet and salty. This balance of flavors not only enhances the taste but also keeps you reaching for just one more handful.

Indulge in the irresistible flavor of Sweet & Salty Caramel Bliss Popcorn with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or as a tasty gift, this delightful treat combines fresh popcorn with a rich caramel sauce and a hint of salt for an addictive snack. Customize with your favorite nuts or sprinkles for a unique twist. Discover how to make this delicious treat that balances sweetness and saltiness in every crunchy bite.

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Ingredients

1 cup popcorn kernels (or 1 bag of pre-popped popcorn)

1 cup unsalted butter

2 cups packed brown sugar

½ cup light corn syrup

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional: 1 cup roasted peanuts or almonds for added crunch

Instructions

Pop the Popcorn:

- If using kernels, pop them according to your preferred method (air popper, stovetop, etc.) and place the popped popcorn in a large, greased bowl. If using pre-popped popcorn, ensure there are no unpopped kernels.

Make the Caramel Sauce:

- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.

- Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Once it reaches a boil, stop stirring and allow it to bubble for 4-5 minutes without stirring.

- Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract (the mixture will bubble up, so be cautious).

Mix the Caramel with Popcorn:

- Immediately pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn, using a wooden spoon to gently mix until all the popcorn is evenly coated.

- If adding nuts, fold them in at this stage for an extra crunch.

Bake for Extra Crispness:

- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

- Spread the caramel-coated popcorn evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.

- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure all the popcorn gets nice and crunchy.

Cool and Serve:

- After baking, remove the popcorn from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.

- Once cooled, break it apart and transfer it to an airtight container for storage or serve immediately in a bowl.

Enjoy your delightful homemade Sweet & Salty Caramel Bliss Popcorn!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: About 10 cups