Introduction
Caramel popcorn is a delightful treat that combines the crispness of popcorn with a rich, buttery caramel coating. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or as a sweet snack, this recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to make your very own caramel popcorn at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Popcorn kernels: 1/2 cup
Granulated sugar: 1 cup
Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup
Light corn syrup: 1/4 cup
Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 cups
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn
Begin by popping the popcorn kernels using your preferred method. Ensure you have about 10-12 cups of popped popcorn. Once done, remove any unpopped kernels and set the popcorn aside in a large bowl.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to boil. Allow it to boil for 4-5 minutes without stirring.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Baking Soda
After boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up significantly.
Step 4: Coat the Popcorn
Pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn. Gently mix using a spatula or your hands while the sauce is still warm to ensure every piece is well-coated.
Step 5: Bake the Caramel Popcorn
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the coated popcorn evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to maintain even coating and prevent burning.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the caramel popcorn from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into pieces and serve or store in an airtight container.
Notes
Storage Information
Store the caramel popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispness.
Variations
You can customize your caramel popcorn by adding nuts, chocolate, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Caramel popcorn makes a great snack for movie nights, parties, or as a sweet treat to share with friends and family.
