Sweet and salty sensation: how to make caramel corn with caramels at home

Caramel corn is a classic treat that’s perfect for snacking, parties, or movie nights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make delicious caramel corn with caramels right at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Ingredients

• 12 cups popped popcorn
• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unwrapped caramels
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Popcorn: Pop 12 cups of popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels.

2. Make the Caramel Sauce: In a large saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

3. Simmer and Stir: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and turned a deep amber color.

4. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Pour over Popcorn: Pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn and stir until evenly coated.

6. Add Caramels: Add the unwrapped caramels to the popcorn and stir until melted and incorporated.

7. Add Nuts (Optional): If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the caramel corn.

8. Cool and Break Apart: Spread the caramel corn onto a large baking sheet and let it cool completely. Once cool, break it into bite-sized pieces.

Tips for Perfect Caramel Corn

• Use Fresh Popcorn: For the best results, use freshly popped popcorn. Stale popcorn will not absorb the caramel sauce as well.
• Don’t Overcook the Caramel Sauce: If you overcook the caramel sauce, it will become too thick and hard.
• Stir Constantly: Stir the caramel sauce constantly to prevent it from burning.
• Use a Large Pan: Use a large saucepan to give the caramel sauce plenty of room to bubble and expand.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow the caramel corn to cool completely before breaking it apart. This will help it set and become crispy.

Variations

• Chocolate Caramel Corn: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the melted caramels.
• Peanut Butter Caramel Corn: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the melted caramels.
• Salted Caramel Corn: Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of salt over the caramel corn after it has cooled.
• Spicy Caramel Corn: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the melted caramels for a spicy kick.

Sweet and Crunchy Perfection

Caramel corn with caramels is a sweet and crunchy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this delicious snack right at home.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use pre-made caramel sauce?
A: Yes, you can use pre-made caramel sauce, but it may not be as flavorful as homemade sauce.

Q: How do I store caramel corn?
A: Store caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make caramel corn without caramels?
A: Yes, you can make caramel corn without caramels by using only butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and water.