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–+ servings
Caramel corn

Caramel corn

This caramel corn recipe balances sweetness and saltiness, creating a nostalgic snack that's healthier than cinema versions.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Cooling Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Course: Sweet Treats
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Caramel corn, desserts, Homemade snacks, Party Food, Popcorn, Sweet snack
Servings: 8 cups
Calories: 180kcal

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • spatula
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Air popper or stove

Ingredients

For the Caramel

  • 1 cup sugar This adds the perfect sweetness to the caramel corn.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Use unsalted for better control over the saltiness.
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup It helps create that irresistible chewy texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

For the Popcorn

  • 1 cup popcorn kernels Freshly popped kernels ensure maximum crunch and flavor.

For Flavoring

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda This helps to lighten the caramel mixture, giving it a crunchy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds a delightful depth of flavor to the caramel corn.

Instructions

How to Make Caramel Corn

  • Begin by popping your popcorn kernels using an air popper or on the stove, until they're fluffy and white. Aim for about 8 cups of popped popcorn for this delightful treat.
  • In a medium saucepan, mix the sugar, unsalted butter, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a rolling boil, stirring continuously to avoid burning.
  • Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract carefully, as the mixture will bubble up.
  • Pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over the popped popcorn, ensuring every kernel is coated. Use a spatula to mix it gently, as the caramel can be quite sticky!
  • Transfer the coated popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread it out evenly to prevent clumping.
  • Preheat your oven to 250°F and bake the popcorn for 1 hour. Stir every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and baking.
  • Once baked, remove the caramel corn from the oven and allow it to cool completely before serving.

Notes

Optionally, drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra decadent twist.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 120mg | Potassium: 100mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 300IU | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 1mg
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