Delicious Cracker Jack Popcorn Recipe: A Sweet Treat in Under 30 Minutes
Indulge in the delightful taste of homemade Cracker Jack popcorn, a classic treat that brings nostalgia to the forefront. Perfect for those cozy movie nights or as a quick dessert fix, this recipe transforms your regular microwave popcorn into a sweet and savory snack that your family will adore. This Cracker Jack popcorn is not only easy to prepare but also comes together in just 28 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you want a sweet treat without the hassle.
Overview
| Recipe Name | Cracker Jack Popcorn |
|---|---|
| Category | Candy |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Prep Time | 3 minutes |
| Total Time | 28 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Description | A homemade Cracker Jack popcorn recipe that’s perfect for a sweet snack, quick desserts, or movie nights. This classic recipe will transform any unappetizing popcorn into a delightful treat. |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 1/4 cups | White sugar |
| 1/3 cup | Water |
| 1 2/3 tablespoons | White vinegar |
| 1/3 cup | Butter |
| 2 1/2 cups | Popped popcorn |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 351.6 |
| Total Fat | 16.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 27.1 mg |
| Sodium | 74.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 52.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 41.7 g |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
Instructions
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Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the butter, white sugar, water, and white vinegar. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
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Cook the Mixture: Allow the mixture to cook without stirring, keeping a close eye on it. You want it to reach an amber color, which indicates that it’s ready to be poured over the popcorn. This process will take around 10 to 15 minutes, so be patient and watch as it transforms.
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Pour the Mixture: Once the mixture has reached the desired amber color, remove it from the heat immediately to prevent burning. Carefully pour the hot mixture over your popped popcorn.
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Toss to Coat: Gently toss the popcorn to ensure that every piece is coated in the sweet caramel mixture. Be careful, as the caramel will be hot.
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Cool Down: Transfer the coated popcorn onto a buttered cookie sheet. Spread it out evenly so that it cools properly and forms distinct clusters.
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Break Into Pieces: Once cooled, break the popcorn into pieces, creating bite-sized clusters that are easy to enjoy.
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Optional Peanuts: If desired, you can add some peanuts to the popcorn while tossing it to create a delightful crunch that complements the sweetness.
Tips for Success
- Watch the Heat: The caramel mixture can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it as it cooks. Once it turns amber, remove it from the heat immediately.
- Popped Corn: Use freshly popped popcorn for the best texture and taste. Air-popped popcorn works well, but you can also use microwave popcorn for convenience.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep the popcorn fresh and crunchy. Enjoy within a week for the best flavor.
Conclusion
This homemade Cracker Jack popcorn recipe not only provides a delicious snack that the whole family will love but also brings back fond memories of enjoying this treat at fairs and movie nights. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a delightful sweet and crunchy treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether enjoyed during a family movie night or as a casual dessert, this Cracker Jack popcorn is a wonderful addition to your recipe collection that’s bound to become a favorite for years to come.
With an average rating of 4 out of 5 from 2 reviews, it’s clear that this Cracker Jack popcorn recipe is a beloved choice among those who have tried it. So, why not give it a try today and savor the sweet, nostalgic flavors that will transport you back to simpler times? Enjoy!
