Caramel Corn With Peanuts
Sweet and crunchy caramel corn with peanuts, perfect for sharing at parties or as a tasty snack, offering rich caramel flavor and satisfying crunch in each bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pop the popcorn and remove all unpopped kernels. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, margarine, and peanuts. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Add baking soda and vanilla to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popcorn and spread onto shallow baking pans.
- Bake at 250°F for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Allow to cool.
- Break apart the caramel corn and store in Ziploc bags.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the peanuts with sunflower seeds. Ensure you stir the caramel thoroughly to prevent burning, and using a heavy-bottomed saucepan can help distribute heat evenly. Keep an eye on the popcorn while baking to avoid over-browning.
Serving Suggestions
Caramel corn makes a delightful snack for movie nights or parties. It pairs beautifully with Bouncing Ball Punch for a fun gathering. Serve it in individual treat bags for easy sharing, or use it as a topping for ice cream to create an indulgent dessert. Enjoy it with a side of Winter Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled caramel corn in an airtight container or Ziploc bags to maintain its crunch. It can last for up to two weeks at room temperature. If you notice it becoming soft, try reheating it in the oven at 200°F for a few minutes to restore its crispness without burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Corn With Peanuts contains roughly 2738 calories, with 12g protein, 259g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 992mg per serving (43% 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While raw peanuts add a classic touch, feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds, cashews, or even mixed nuts for a unique flavor. Just ensure that any nuts you choose are roasted and unsalted to maintain the right balance with the sweet caramel.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan. Substitute margarine with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and make sure your popcorn is popped in oil that is vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making this a simple swap for a delicious treat.
What can I do if my caramel is too hard after baking?
If your caramel corn turns out too hard, it may have been baked too long or at too high a temperature. To soften it, try placing it in an airtight container with a slice of bread overnight; the moisture will help soften the caramel. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven briefly, but be cautious not to bake it again.
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).