Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup popcorn kernels
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Pop popcorn kernels according to package instructions and set aside.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt to the pot and stir until combined.
5. Bring mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove pot from heat and stir in vanilla extract and baking soda.
7. Pour caramel mixture over popcorn and stir until popcorn is evenly coated.
8. Spread popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
10. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 250°F (120°C)
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 450
- Total fat: 25g
- Cholesterol: 61mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total carbohydrates: 57g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 46g
- Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Corn syrup can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with granulated sugar or coconut sugar.
Variations:
- Add 1 cup of chopped nuts or pretzels to the popcorn mixture before baking.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled popcorn for a chocolate-caramel twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Stir the popcorn mixture gently to avoid breaking the popcorn kernels.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place popcorn in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual paper bags or bowls for a fun and festive presentation.
- Sprinkle with sea salt or cinnamon for added flavor.
Garnishes:
- Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or sprinkles.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit or a vegetable platter.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the caramel mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of water and stir until desired consistency is reached.
- If the popcorn is too sticky, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool completely before serving.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot caramel mixture.
- Store in an airtight container to prevent moisture and bacteria growth.
Food history:
- Popcorn has been a popular snack food for centuries, with evidence of popcorn being consumed by Native Americans dating back to the 16th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet and salty with a crunchy texture.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or dessert.
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Taste: Sweet, Salty, Caramelized, Crunchy