Description
This Caramel Puff Corn recipe creates a deliciously sweet and crunchy snack featuring airy popcorn twists coated in a rich homemade caramel sauce. Perfect for holiday gift-giving or game day munching, this treat combines the classic flavors of caramel corn with an easy, fuss-free preparation method that yields irresistibly addictive results.
Ingredients
Scale
Popcorn Base
- 10 cups popcorn twists (175 grams, also called Puff Corn)
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup unsalted butter (225 grams)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (155 grams)
- 1/2 cup corn syrup (130 grams)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Popcorn: Spread the 10 cups of popcorn twists evenly over the parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Set aside while you make the caramel sauce.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Whisk constantly until the mixture comes to a boil, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is smooth.
- Boil and Add Baking Soda: Allow the caramel to boil for 2 minutes while stirring continuously. Then, stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam up significantly. Continue whisking and cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the foaming subsides slightly.
- Coat Popcorn: Immediately pour the hot caramel sauce over the popcorn twists. Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir and toss the popcorn, coating it evenly with the caramel.
- Bake: Place the coated popcorn in the oven and bake at 250°F for 45 minutes. Stir the mixture every 10-15 minutes to ensure even caramel coating and prevent sticking or burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the caramel puff corn from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes. Once cooled, break apart the popcorn into smaller pieces as desired.
- Storage: Store your caramel puff corn in an airtight container or Ziploc bag to maintain freshness. It keeps well for 1-2 weeks.
Notes
- This Caramel Puff Corn is incredibly addictive, with a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
- It’s easier to make than traditional caramel corn, making it a great choice for beginners.
- Ideal for holiday gifts and game day snacks.
- Be careful when handling hot caramel to avoid burns.
- For extra crunch, ensure you stir the popcorn every 10-15 minutes while baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup serving
- Calories: 337 kcal
- Sugar: 34 g
- Sodium: 129 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 48 mg
