The Ultimate Baked Caramel Corn
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of The Ultimate Baked Caramel Corn, a treat that combines the sweet, crunchy goodness of caramel-coated popcorn and nuts, making it the perfect snack for any occasion, be it a festive gathering or a casual afternoon with friends. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a charming presentation, making it an ideal gift during the holiday season when packaged in a pretty tin.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 cups | Popped popcorn |
| ½ cup | Pecans |
| ½ cup | Walnuts |
| 1 cup | Butter |
| ¼ cup | Brown sugar |
| ½ cup | Light corn syrup |
| ¼ teaspoon | Salt |
| ½ teaspoon | Baking soda |
| 1 teaspoon | Vanilla |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 253.6 |
| Total Fat | 15.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 20.3 mg |
| Sodium | 316.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 29.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g |
| Sugars | 19.9 g |
| Protein | 1.3 g |
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (approximately 150°C). This step is crucial as it prepares the environment for baking the caramel corn to perfection.
-
-
Prepare the Pan: Take a 15x10x1 inch jelly roll pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent the caramel corn from sticking.
-
Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the popped popcorn with the chopped pecans and walnuts. Toss them gently to ensure an even distribution of the nuts throughout the popcorn. Once combined, set this mixture aside while you prepare the caramel sauce.
-
Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, place the butter and melt it over low heat. This gentle heat will help prevent the butter from burning, which is essential for achieving a smooth caramel.
-
Add the Sweeteners: Once the butter has melted, add the brown sugar, light corn syrup, and salt to the saucepan. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined, ensuring that the brown sugar dissolves into the mixture.
-
Boil the Mixture: Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil undisturbed for about 5 minutes. Be cautious not to stir during this time, as stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize, resulting in a grainy texture.
-
Incorporate Baking Soda and Vanilla: After 5 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up due to the reaction between the baking soda and the syrup, which adds to the lightness of the caramel.
-
Coat the Popcorn: Immediately pour the warm caramel sauce over the popcorn and nut mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the caramel into the popcorn until every piece is evenly coated. This step is crucial for ensuring that the sweetness envelops each kernel.
-
Bake the Caramel Corn: Spread the coated popcorn evenly onto the prepared jelly roll pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through (after 15 minutes) to ensure even baking and coating.
-
Cool and Break Apart: Once baked, remove the caramel corn from the oven and let it cool completely on the pan. As it cools, the caramel will harden, creating that signature crunchy texture. Once cool, break the caramel corn into pieces, and it’s ready to be enjoyed!
Serving Suggestions
This baked caramel corn makes an excellent snack for movie nights, a delightful addition to party platters, or a charming homemade gift for friends and family during the holiday season. Simply package it in decorative tins or bags for a thoughtful present.
Storage Tips
To keep your caramel corn fresh and crunchy, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If stored properly, it can last for several weeks, allowing you to savor this delicious treat long after it’s made.
Enjoy making The Ultimate Baked Caramel Corn, where every crunchy, sweet bite is sure to bring a smile to your face! Whether you share it with loved ones or keep it all to yourself, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite in your snack repertoire.
