Sweet and Salty Caramel Popcorn Recipe

This delicious sweet and salty caramel popcorn recipe is perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family. Made with a homemade caramel sauce that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness, this popcorn is addictive and full of flavor. It's a great treat for movie nights, parties, or any time you're craving a satisfying snack. Get ready to enjoy a classic combination of flavors in this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup popcorn kernels
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup salted peanuts
• Sea salt, for sprinkling

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Pop the popcorn kernels using your preferred method, such as an air popper or stovetop popcorn pan. Place the popcorn in a large heatproof bowl, ensuring any unpopped kernels are removed.
3. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to bubble.
4. Continue cooking and stirring for another 2-3 minutes until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture has turned a golden caramel color.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up, so be careful.
6. Pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn and stir until all the popcorn is coated.
7. Add the salted peanuts to the bowl and mix well to distribute them evenly throughout the popcorn.
8. Spread the caramel popcorn mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Sprinkle sea salt over the top to add a salty contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
10. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even baking and coating.
11. Remove from the oven and let the caramel popcorn cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, it will crisp up.
12. Once cooled, break the caramel popcorn into smaller pieces and serve in a bowl or store in an airtight container for later snacking.

Interesting Facts