Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup nonpareils
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. In a large pot, heat the popcorn kernels over medium-high heat until they start to pop. Cover with a lid and shake the pot occasionally until the popping slows down. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the sugar, corn syrup, and salt to the melted butter. Stir until well combined.
5. Attach the candy thermometer to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
6. Once the mixture reaches 250°F, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Pour the mixture over the popcorn and stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
8. Spread the popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Sprinkle the nonpareils over the popcorn and gently press them into the mixture.
10. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the nonpareils are set.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
12. Break the popcorn into pieces and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 250°F.
Serving size:
Makes approximately 8 cups of popcorn.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 180mg
Sugar: 21g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon.
- Light corn syrup can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
Variations:
- Use different colors of nonpareils to match the theme of a party or event.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the popcorn mixture before baking.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a large pot to prevent the popcorn from overflowing.
- Stir the popcorn mixture frequently to prevent burning.
- Let the popcorn cool completely before breaking it into pieces to prevent it from sticking together.
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, or until warm and crispy.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the popcorn in a large bowl or individual paper bags.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle extra nonpareils over the top of the popcorn before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with a cold glass of milk or a fruity cocktail.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a vegetable platter.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the popcorn mixture is too sticky, reduce the amount of corn syrup or sugar in the recipe.
- If the nonpareils are not sticking to the popcorn, try lightly spraying the popcorn with cooking spray before adding the nonpareils.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot sugar syrup.
- Let the popcorn cool completely before serving to prevent burns.
Food history:
Nonpareils are small, round candy sprinkles that have been used in baking and confectionery for over a century.
Flavor profiles:
This recipe combines the sweet and salty flavors of caramel popcorn with the crunch of nonpareils.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a snack or dessert at a party or movie night.
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