Description
Classic caramel corn brings sweet nostalgia to family movie nights. Crunchy kernels glazed with buttery caramel create irresistible snacking moments you’ll devour quickly.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 10 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup sweet cream salted butter
Candy Toppings:
- Mini Rolos or regular Rolos
- M&M candy (brown, yellow, red, orange)
- Pretzel M&M’s (brown, yellow, red, orange)
Seasonings and Flavoring:
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare fresh popcorn, meticulously removing any unpopped kernels to ensure a smooth snacking experience.
- Generously sprinkle salt across the popcorn to create a robust flavor foundation.
- In a medium saucepan, gently melt butter over medium-low heat, then incorporate brown sugar, stirring until completely integrated.
- Allow the butter-sugar mixture to simmer and transform into a rich caramel, maintaining a low boil for approximately 4 minutes without disturbing the surface.
- Introduce vanilla extract, stirring continuously for an additional minute before removing from heat source.
- Swiftly incorporate baking soda, whisking vigorously until the caramel develops a light, airy texture with delicate foam.
- Methodically drizzle the caramel over salted popcorn, ensuring each kernel receives an even, luxurious coating through careful folding.
- Transfer the caramel-drenched popcorn onto a foil-lined or Silpat-covered baking sheet, spreading evenly to promote optimal cooling and crispness.
- Once completely cooled, artfully integrate Rolos, Pretzel M&M’s, and classic M&M’s, gently folding to distribute the sweet additions throughout the caramel corn.
Notes
- Always use fresh, un-popped popcorn kernels for the best texture and crunch in your caramel corn.
- Ensure even salt distribution by sprinkling salt while kernels are still warm to help it stick better.
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for more consistent caramel cooking and to prevent burning.
- Watch the caramel closely during boiling to achieve the perfect golden color without scorching.
- For a lighter caramel coating, drizzle gradually and stir frequently to prevent clumping.
- Create gluten-free versions by using certified gluten-free popcorn and candies.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like chopped nuts or alternative candies for unique flavor combinations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg