Caramel Coated Popcorn And Peanuts
Sweet and crunchy caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts combine in a rich treat, perfect for sharing at parties or satisfying snack cravings with a buttery, caramel flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, Karo syrup, and oleo.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.
- Immediately stir in the soda.
- Remove from the stove and pour over the mixed popcorn and peanuts.
- Mix well to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture on a lightly greased 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan.
- Place in a 200°F oven.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of oleo. If you're looking for a healthier version, try substituting maple syrup for Karo syrup. To avoid sticking, coat your hands with a bit of oil when mixing the popcorn and peanuts. Make sure to stir well during baking to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts as a delightful snack during movie nights or game days. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing drink like Sunny Delight Punch or as a sweet treat alongside Holly Berry Cookies. You can also package it in decorative bags for a fun party favor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramel popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If it gets too hard, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to soften it up again. Avoid refrigerating as it can cause the caramel to become sticky.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Coated Popcorn And Peanuts contains roughly 683 calories, with 26g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value) and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1392mg per serving (61% 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 use unsalted peanuts instead of salted?
Yes, you can use unsalted peanuts for a less salty flavor. Just keep in mind that the balance of sweetness and saltiness will change. If desired, you can sprinkle a little sea salt on top after baking for added flavor.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace oleo with a plant-based butter substitute and use a vegan-friendly syrup instead of Karo syrup. Ensure that the popcorn is popped without butter or oil to keep it entirely plant-based.
Can I add other ingredients to the popcorn?
Absolutely! You can mix in ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even spices for a unique twist. Just be cautious with the added moisture from dried fruit, as it can affect the caramel's texture.
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).