Ingredients
- Popped Popcorn, 12 cups (air-popped is best)
- Butter, 1/2 cup (1 stick)
- Brown Sugar, 1 cup packed
- Corn Syrup, 1/4 cup
- Vanilla Extract, 1 teaspoon
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon
- Baking Soda, 1/2 teaspoon
- Chopped Nuts (optional), 1/2 cup
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the popped popcorn in a large roasting pan or on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Remove any unpopped kernels.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and corn syrup. Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Step 3: Continue to boil the mixture for 4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat.
- Step 4: Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and baking soda. The mixture will foam up slightly.
- Step 5: Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the popcorn in the roasting pan. Stir gently to coat all the popcorn as evenly as possible. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, if desired.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even baking and prevent burning. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into pieces. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Store completely cooled popcorn treat in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its delightful stickiness.
- If your popcorn treat loses its crispness, a quick 5-minute bake in a 250°F (120°C) oven can revive it.
- Serve this sweet treat at your next gathering for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, or package it in small bags as charming homemade gifts.
- For extra depth of flavor, try using salted butter to balance the sweetness and enhance the caramel notes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American