Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped dried apples
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. Pop popcorn kernels in a large pot with a lid over medium-high heat. Once popped, transfer to a large bowl.
3. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Stir until combined.
4. Attach a candy thermometer to the pot and continue to stir the mixture until it reaches 250°F.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour caramel mixture over popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
7. Spread popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
9. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
10. Add chopped dried apples and stir until evenly distributed.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 250°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 380
Total fat: 18g
Saturated fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total carbohydrates: 54g
Dietary fiber: 3g
Total sugars: 45g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of dried apples, you can use fresh apples that have been chopped and baked until crispy.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of corn syrup.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds for extra crunch.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the popcorn for a chocolate-covered caramel apple popcorn.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to stir the caramel mixture constantly to prevent burning.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature.
- Let the popcorn cool for a few minutes before adding the dried apples to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place popcorn on a baking sheet and bake at 250°F for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in a large bowl or individual paper bags for a fun and festive presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor.
Pairings:
Serve with hot apple cider or a warm cup of tea.
Suggested side dishes:
This recipe can be served as a snack or dessert on its own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the caramel becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water and stir until smooth.
- If the popcorn becomes too sticky, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for a few minutes before adding the dried apples.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature for safe consumption.
Food history:
Caramel apples have been a popular fall treat for over 100 years. This recipe puts a twist on the classic treat by adding popcorn for a fun and crunchy texture.
Flavor profiles:
This recipe has a sweet and spicy flavor with notes of caramel, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a snack or dessert at fall parties or movie nights.
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Taste: Sweet, Salty, Caramelized, Fruity, buttery, crunchy, tangy, caramelized