Irresistible Baked Caramel Corn for Snack Lovers

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
• ½ cup of unpopped corn kernels
• 2 cups of rich dark brown sugar
• 1 cup of butter
• ½ cup of white corn syrup
• 1 tsp of salt
• ½ tsp of aromatic vanilla extract
• ½ tsp of baking soda

Step 1

Set the oven to a cozy 250 degrees F (120 degrees C) and let it warm up. In a large saucepan, gently warm up some oil over medium-high heat. Sprinkle in 4 kernels of popcorn, cover, and wait for that satisfying pop. Once they pop, it's time to add in the rest of the kernels, spreading them out evenly in the pan before covering again. Take it off the heat for about half a minute, then back on the burner, gently swaying the pan until the popping slows down to a delightful rhythm of silence between pops, which should take around 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat, transfer this freshly popped goodness into a spacious bowl.

Step 2

In another 2-quart saucepan, mix together brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and a pinch of salt. Allow this sweet concoction to come to a bubbly boil, giving it a constant stir. Let it bubble away for a solid 5 minutes without any interference. Once ready, take it off the heat and stir in a splash of vanilla extract and a hint of baking soda, stirring until well combined. Pour this luscious mixture over the popcorn, ensuring every piece is generously coated. Transfer this delectable treat into a shallow oven-safe pan.

Step 3

Slide the pan into the preheated oven, making sure to give it a good stir every 15 minutes. Let it bake until each piece of popcorn achieves that desired crunch, which should take roughly an hour. Enjoy the enticing aroma filling your kitchen as you patiently wait for your delightful homemade treat to be ready!