Modern Sugared Popcorn
A classic treat updated for today's kitchens. This recipe creates perfectly coated, sweet popcorn with a rich caramel flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 cups Popped popcorn (About 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 0.25 cup Water
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Optional, for added flavor)
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt (Optional, to balance sweetness)
Instructions
- 1Pop the popcorn using your preferred method (air popper, stovetop, or microwave). Remove any unpopped kernels.
- 2In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- 3Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer, without stirring, for 5-7 minutes, or until a candy thermometer reaches 235-240°F (soft-ball stage). If using vanilla and salt, stir them in during the last minute of simmering.
- 4Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn in a large bowl. Stir quickly and gently until all the popcorn is evenly coated. Be careful, as the caramel will be very hot.
- 5Spread the coated popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely. This will prevent it from sticking together. Once cooled, break apart any large clumps and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container.