Crispy Caramel Corn

Crunchy, sweet, and utterly irresistible – homemade caramel corn is the perfect treat to cozy up with on a chilly afternoon or serve at a gathering with friends and family. Making your own Crispy Caramel Corn is not only a fun and rewarding experience but also allows you to customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delectable batch of this classic snack that will have everyone coming back for more.

Crispy Caramel Corn

Ingredients:
– 8 cups popped popcorn (about 1/3 cup unpopped kernels)
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, place the popped popcorn, ensuring there are no unpopped kernels. Set aside.

3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a boil.

4. Once boiling, let the mixture cook without stirring for 5 minutes.

5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up.

6. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popcorn in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula to gently toss the popcorn until it is evenly coated with caramel.

7. Spread the caramel-coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even baking and coating.

9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the caramel corn cool completely on the pan. It will crisp up as it cools.

10. Break the Crispy Caramel Corn into clusters or individual pieces and transfer to an airtight container for storage. Enjoy immediately or save it for later snacking!

Indulge in the delightful blend of crispy, buttery popcorn coated in a rich caramel glaze with this homemade Crispy Caramel Corn recipe. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or as a delightful gift, this addictive treat will surely become a household favorite. Experiment with adding nuts, chocolate drizzles, or a hint of cinnamon to customize your caramel corn creation. Share this delicious snack with your loved ones and watch their faces light up with joy!