Get ready to transform your snack game with the most addictive treat you'll ever taste! Imagine the warm, comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll magically infused into crispy, golden popcorn, drizzled with a luxurious caramel coating that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This Cinnamon Roll Caramel Corn is not just a snack – it's a culinary experience that bridges the gap between dessert and munchies, guaranteed to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Place the popped popcorn in a very large mixing bowl, ensuring there are no unpopped kernels. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a full boil.
- Continue boiling the caramel mixture for 5 minutes without stirring, maintaining a steady boil. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove the caramel from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon.
- Immediately add baking soda and whisk vigorously. The mixture will become lighter and foamy.
- Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popped popcorn, using a spatula to gently fold and coat the popcorn evenly.
- Spread the caramel-coated popcorn in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even coating and crispness.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. The caramel will crisp up as it cools.
- Break into clusters and serve, or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh, freshly popped popcorn for the best texture and flavor. Avoid pre-packaged microwave popcorn, which can taste stale.
- Watch your caramel mixture carefully while boiling to prevent burning. A candy thermometer can help ensure the perfect consistency.
- Stir the popcorn gently when coating with caramel to avoid breaking the kernels and to ensure even coverage.
- For extra cinnamon roll vibes, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze after cooling.
- Make sure to spread the popcorn in a single layer while baking to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Allow the caramel corn to cool completely before storing to maintain its crunchy texture.
- Store in an airtight container to keep the popcorn fresh and crisp for up to 5 days – if it lasts that long!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
