Description
Create your own Cracker Jack at home with this easy recipe featuring caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts. This nostalgic treat is perfect for movie nights or as a sweet snack. Enjoy the classic taste with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients
10 cups popped popcorn
1 cup unsalted peanuts
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Popcorn: Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Place popped popcorn and peanuts in a large roasting pan.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils. Let boil without stirring for 5 minutes.
- Add Baking Soda and Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up.
- Coat Popcorn: Pour caramel sauce over the popcorn and peanuts, stirring to coat evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.
- Cool: Spread onto wax paper to cool completely. Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Notes
Storage: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
Nut Alternatives: Substitute peanuts with almonds, cashews, or a mix of nuts for a different flavor profile.
Sweetener Substitutes: Corn syrup can be replaced with honey, maple syrup, or homemade sugar syrup.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10 servings
- Calories: Approx. 150 kcal per serving
