Candy Popped Corn
Sweet and crunchy caramel popcorn mixed with peanuts, perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings, offering rich flavors and satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the oleo, brown sugar, white corn syrup, peanuts, and popped corn to a boil; boil for 5 minutes.
- Add baking soda and vanilla to the caramel mixture.
- Spread popcorn and nuts in a large roaster pan. Pour the caramel mixture over the top and stir to coat evenly.
- Bake in a 225°F oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Turn over the mixture every 15 minutes or four times during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider using mixed nuts or almonds instead of peanuts. If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half the oleo with butter. Ensure that the popcorn is well-popped and free of unpopped kernels before coating. Watch the caramel closely during boiling to prevent burning, as the sugar can quickly go from perfect to burnt.
Serving Suggestions
Candy Popped Corn makes a delightful treat for movie nights or parties. Serve it in individual bags or bowls for easy snacking. It pairs beautifully with other sweet treats like Brown Sugar Coffee Cake or can be enjoyed alongside savory snacks for a balanced spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Candy Popped Corn in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispness. It can last for up to a week. If you want to refresh the texture, spread the popcorn on a baking sheet and warm it in a 250°F oven for about 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candy Popped Corn contains roughly 296 calories, with 7g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (174% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 610mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe without nuts?
Yes, you can absolutely make Candy Popped Corn without nuts. Simply omit the peanuts or replace them with an equal amount of extra popcorn for added volume. This makes it a great treat for those with nut allergies.
What can I use instead of white corn syrup?
If you don’t have white corn syrup, you can substitute it with honey or light maple syrup. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the caramel coating.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make Candy Popped Corn vegan, replace the oleo with a plant-based margarine and ensure that the brown sugar is not processed with bone char. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this classic treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).