Joan’s Crazy Caramel Corn is a delightful snack that combines the rich flavors of caramel with the satisfying crunch of popcorn. This recipe is perfect for those looking to whip up a treat in under an hour, making it ideal for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of addictive caramel corn that will vanish quickly!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups puff corn
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 106.3
- Fat: 4.6g
- Saturated Fat: 2.9g
- Cholesterol: 12.2mg
- Sodium: 105.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 17.3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 12.9g
- Protein: 0.1g
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 47 minutes
Instructions:
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Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Prepare a large roasting pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
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Combine Caramel Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan (at least 2 quarts in size), melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and light corn syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Let it boil for 2 minutes without stirring.
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Incorporate Baking Soda: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the baking soda. Be prepared as this will cause the mixture to foam up. Stir well to ensure the baking soda is evenly distributed.
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Coat the Corn: Place the puff corn in the prepared roasting pan. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the puff corn, stirring gently but thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
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Bake the Caramel Corn: Transfer the roasting pan to the preheated oven. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 45 minutes, stirring the caramel corn every 10 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the caramel corn from the oven and immediately transfer it onto wax paper or a non-stick surface. Spread it out in an even layer and allow it to cool completely. Break apart any large clumps.
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Storage: Store the cooled caramel corn in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a week, though it’s unlikely to last that long!
Additional Tips:
- For an added twist, consider mixing in peanuts or your favorite nuts before baking. This adds a delicious crunch and extra flavor to the caramel corn.
- Ensure the baking soda is well mixed into the caramel mixture to achieve a lighter, crisp texture in the finished product.
- When stirring the caramel corn during baking, use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently lift and turn the pieces, being careful not to break them apart too much.
Recipe Variations:
- Experiment with different types of syrup such as maple syrup or honey for varied flavors.
- Add a pinch of salt to the caramel mixture to create a sweet-salty contrast.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle holiday-themed sprinkles over the caramel corn immediately after coating and before it cools.
Joan’s Crazy Caramel Corn is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re preparing it for a party, a movie night, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe promises a deliciously addictive snack that everyone will love. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this treat—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
