CARAMEL POPCORN (CRACKER JACKS)

(from ej9157’s recipe box)

Preheat oven to 250°F degrees.

Ingredients

  • 4 quarts popped corn (measured after popping)
  • 1 16 oz container peanuts (optional)
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 stick butter
  • 1/4 cup white corn syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/3 teaspoon salt

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 250°F degrees.

  2. Measure 1 cup of light brown sugar into a medium saucepan (with high sides) and stir in 1 stick of butter, 1/4 cup of corn syrup and a pinch of salt.

  3. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly (set timer for 2 minutes).

  4. Remove saucepan from heat and quickly stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and vanilla (mixture will foam up). Stir mixture down.

  5. Using a pot or bowl which is large enough to hold all of the popped popcorn, combine popcorn and hot mixture, stirring and tossing to mix thoroughly using a large spoon greased with butter. Add peanuts (optional). When pouring liquid over popcorn be careful because the mixture is HOT.

  6. When thoroughly mixed, spread the coated popcorn on a greased baking sheet. Do not overload the baking sheet; bake in multiple batches if necessary.

  7. Bake 15 minutes at 250°F; turn over using a silicone spatula and bake another 15 minutes.

  8. Allow to cool thoroughly and store in air-tight containers in a cool place.

  9. The only thing you’ll miss is the prize!

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