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Crispy Cracker Jack Caramel Corn

crispy Cracker Jack caramel corn recipe - featured image
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A quick and easy homemade caramel corn recipe that delivers a perfectly crispy, sweet, and nostalgic snack reminiscent of classic Cracker Jack. Ready in under 30 minutes using simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (90 grams) popcorn kernels
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) neutral oil (canola or vegetable) for popping
  • 1/4 cup (56 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (200 grams) light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) light corn syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of neutral oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add 3 popcorn kernels to test. Once they pop, add the remaining 1/2 cup (90 g) of kernels in an even layer. Cover with a lid and shake the pot gently every 15 seconds to prevent burning. When popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, remove from heat. Pour popcorn into a large mixing bowl, discarding unpopped kernels. (Approx. 5-7 minutes)
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter. Add 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) light corn syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir continuously until sugar dissolves and mixture boils. Boil without stirring for 4-5 minutes until deep amber color (245°F to 250°F / 118°C to 121°C if using a candy thermometer).
  3. Remove saucepan from heat and quickly stir in 1/2 teaspoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. The mixture will foam up.
  4. Immediately pour caramel sauce over popcorn in the large bowl. Gently fold with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon to coat evenly without crushing kernels.
  5. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat. Spread coated popcorn in an even layer on the sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
  6. Remove baking sheet from oven and let caramel corn cool completely. It will crisp up further as it cools. Break into clusters and store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Notes

Use fresh popcorn kernels for best texture. Do not skip baking soda as it creates a light, airy caramel coating. Stir popcorn every 15 minutes during baking to prevent burning and ensure even coating. Store in airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness. Reheat gently if caramel corn softens.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel corn, Cracker Jack, homemade snack, caramel popcorn, crispy caramel corn, easy caramel corn recipe, popcorn snack

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