Get ready to transform your snack game with the most addictive caramel corn recipe that's been driving taste buds wild! This isn't just another popcorn recipe - it's a crispy, sweet, golden masterpiece that will have everyone begging for your secret. Whether you're hosting a movie night, looking for a crowd-pleasing treat, or simply want to indulge in the most heavenly homemade snack, Miles' Favorite Caramel Corn is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup popcorn kernels
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Using an air popper or large pot with a lid, pop the popcorn kernels. Ensure all kernels are popped and remove any unpopped kernels. Transfer the popped corn to a very large mixing bowl.
- In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and light corn syrup. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to boil.
- Stop stirring and allow the caramel mixture to cook without disturbing for 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches a deep golden amber color. The temperature should be around 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove the caramel from heat and quickly whisk in baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam and become lighter in color and slightly fluffy.
- Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popped popcorn. Using a large spatula, gently fold and stir to coat the popcorn evenly with caramel.
- Spread the caramel-coated popcorn in an even layer across the prepared baking sheets. Ensure the popcorn is in a single layer for even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring and rotating the baking sheets every 10 minutes to ensure even caramelization and crispness.
- Remove from the oven and let the caramel corn cool completely on the baking sheets. The caramel will harden and become crisp as it cools.
- Break the caramel corn into clusters and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use a candy thermometer for precise caramel temperature - it's the key to achieving that perfect golden crunch.
- Work quickly when mixing caramel with popcorn to ensure even coating.
- Spread popcorn in a single layer on baking sheets to guarantee maximum crispiness.
- Remove any unpopped kernels before adding caramel to prevent unexpected hard bites.
- Let the caramel corn cool completely for the ultimate crisp texture.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or some chopped nuts to the mix.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
