Are you craving a sweet and salty treat that's ridiculously easy to make? Look no further! This Betty Crocker Caramel Corn recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for movie nights, parties, or a simple afternoon snack. Forget store-bought – this homemade version is far superior, with that perfect balance of buttery caramel and crunchy popcorn. It’s a delicious dish that’s quick to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade cooking satisfaction!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Making the Caramel:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt.
- Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, continue stirring constantly.
- Once boiling, continue to cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This is crucial for achieving the perfect caramel consistency. Don't rush this step!
Combining and Cooling:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the popped popcorn to the saucepan and toss gently to coat all the popcorn evenly with the caramel. Work quickly as the caramel will start to cool and thicken.
- Pour the caramel corn onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out in a single layer.
- Let the caramel corn cool completely before breaking it apart. This is important to prevent the caramel from becoming sticky.
Tips for the Best Caramel Corn:
- Use good quality popcorn: The flavor of the popcorn will shine through, so choose a brand you enjoy.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your popcorn is evenly coated. If you have a large batch, consider making it in two batches.
- Watch the caramel closely: Overcooking can lead to a hard caramel, while undercooking may result in a sticky mess.
- Patience is key: Allow the caramel corn to cool completely before breaking it apart. This prevents it from sticking together and ensures each piece is perfectly coated.
Variations:
- Spicy Caramel Corn: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the caramel mixture for a kick.
- Nutty Caramel Corn: Toss in some chopped pecans, walnuts, or peanuts along with the popcorn.
- Chocolate Caramel Corn: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled caramel corn for an extra decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the type of popcorn and ingredients used. A reasonable estimate for a 1/4 cup serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It’s perfect as a side dish or a delightful snack. This Betty Crocker inspired caramel corn is a guaranteed hit, making it one of the best recipes for satisfying those sweet and salty cravings. Enjoy!