Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pretzels
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- 1/2 cup M&M's
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot with a lid over medium-high heat until all kernels are popped.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, honey, and salt over medium heat, stirring occasionally until smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the popcorn into a large bowl and drizzle the caramel sauce over it, stirring to coat evenly.
6. Spread the popcorn mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
9. Add the pretzels, roasted peanuts, and M&M's to the popcorn mixture and stir to combine.
10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 250°F.
Serving size:
- Makes 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 280
- Total fat: 13g
- Saturated fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 290mg
- Total carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of brown sugar, you can use white sugar or coconut sugar.
- Instead of honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Instead of pretzels, you can use crackers or popcorn chips.
- Instead of roasted peanuts, you can use almonds or cashews.
- Instead of M&M's, you can use chocolate chips or raisins.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 tsp of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the caramel sauce for a fall-inspired flavor.
- Use different types of nuts or candy to customize the mix to your liking.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the popcorn mix for an extra salty kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to stir the popcorn mixture frequently while baking to prevent burning.
- Let the popcorn cool for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients to prevent them from melting.
- Store the popcorn mix in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, spread the popcorn mix onto a baking sheet and bake at 250°F for 5 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the popcorn mix in a large bowl or on a platter for a party snack.
- Package the popcorn mix in individual bags or jars for a homemade gift.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with sea salt or cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of tea.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fruit salad or veggie sticks for a healthier snack option.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the caramel sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use fresh popcorn kernels and check for any unpopped kernels before serving.
Food history:
- Popcorn has been a popular snack for centuries, with evidence of popcorn being consumed by Native Americans as early as the 16th century.
Flavor profiles:
- This popcorn mix has a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, with a caramel coating, crunchy pretzels, roasted peanuts, and colorful M&M's.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a snack for movie night, game day, or a party.
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