Caramel popcorn

I love popcorn, it is my favorite snacks when I feel like to eat between meals other than fruits :)

Got an invitation from someone so nice with her kids, but some of them have allergy against gluten and diary products. I wanted to bring a dessert but definitely not a cake!!

So... I think popcorn is kid's favorite, isn't it? I think kids won't like plain popcorn... may be caramel! something sweet and yummy :)

Ingredients

1/2 cup corn kernels, popped, will make about 8 cups
1 cup nuts (almond, hazel nuts, walnuts...)

Caramel sauce:
1/2 cup or 113g butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/3 cup water
Optional: 2 tbsp cocoa powder and 1/2 tsp cinnamon


1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking soda

Instructions

1. Pop the corn, click here to see how to make popcornRemove the unpopped kernels and place them in a big mixing bowl

2. Line a baking sheet with baking sheetPreheat the oven to 120°c
Note: If you want to serve it immediately, omit this step, go to step 3

3. In a medium sauce pot, mix butter, sugar, salt, water, and any flavorings, stir until combine

Bring to boil over medium heat and boil 5 minutes until thickened. Stir frequently to prevent boiling over => be careful of bubbles

4. After 5 mins, remove from heat, stir in vanilla and soda, mix well
Note: Baking soda is used to soften the syrup mixture, won't become too hard that you can chew the sugar after baking

5. Quickly pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and nutsUse a wooden spoon or spetula to stir until popcorn evenly coated

You can serve it hot immediately if you won't store it for later

If you want to store it for later:

1. Spread out onto the baking sheet to one layer

Bake for 30 minutes, stir it about every 10 minutes

2. After 30mins, take it out from the oven, let it cool down 

3. When completely cool down, store in airtight containers

Enjoy!