Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add popcorn kernels and cover with a lid.
5. Once the kernels start popping, shake the pot occasionally until the popping slows down.
6. Remove the pot from heat and transfer the popcorn to the prepared baking sheet.
7. In a separate pot, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, and salt.
8. Cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
9. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda.
10. Pour the maple sugar mixture over the popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
11. Bake for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
12. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 250°F.
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter.
- Honey or corn syrup can be used instead of maple syrup.
- White sugar can be used instead of brown sugar.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the popcorn before coating with the maple sugar mixture.
- Use different types of sugar, such as coconut sugar or cane sugar.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the maple sugar mixture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to shake the pot occasionally while popping the popcorn to prevent burning.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the maple sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Let the popcorn cool completely before serving to allow the maple sugar coating to harden.
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 250°F for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large bowl or individual cups.
- Garnish with extra maple sugar or chopped nuts.
Garnishes:
- Chopped nuts
- Extra maple sugar
Pairings:
- Hot cocoa
- Apple cider
Suggested side dishes:
- Cheese and crackers
- Veggie platter
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the popcorn burns, lower the heat and shake the pot more frequently.
- If the maple sugar coating is too sticky, add more baking soda to the mixture.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use a candy thermometer to ensure the maple sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature for safe consumption.
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, salty, and crunchy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or dessert.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Canadian
Taste: Sweet, Salty, Crunchy, Maple, Maple-Flavored