Caramel Popcorn Brittle
A decadent caramel popcorn brittle combining crunchy popcorn, sweet caramel, marshmallows, and peanuts for a rich treat perfect for sharing at parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, combine sugar and water.
- Cook over medium-low heat, without stirring, for 10 minutes or until sugar dissolves.
- Cover, increase heat to medium and cook 1 minute.
- Cook, uncovered and without stirring, 12 minutes longer or until amber.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in vanilla.
- Add popped corn, marshmallows, and peanuts.
- Working rapidly, stir well and spread into a 15 x 10-inch jellyroll pan, coated with nonstick spray.
- Let cool.
- Break into pieces.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a successful caramel, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before increasing the heat to prevent crystallization. If the caramel becomes too hard, briefly warm it in the microwave to soften. You can substitute the peanuts with almonds or omit them for a nut-free version. For a festive twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Caramel popcorn brittle makes a delightful snack for movie nights or parties. Serve it in a large bowl for sharing, or package it in decorative bags for gifts. It pairs beautifully with a warm beverage like hot cocoa or spiced cider. For a fun treat, try serving it alongside George-Ann'S Hot Sauce For Roast Beef for an unexpected flavor contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the caramel popcorn brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crispy. Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can make it chewy. It can last for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider using the Comfortable Freeze method for extended storage without compromising texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Popcorn Brittle contains roughly 545 calories, with 12g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 popcorn for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of popcorn, such as cheese or caramel popcorn, but be mindful that it will alter the flavor profile. Plain popped corn without salt or oil is recommended for the best caramel coating.
How can I prevent the caramel from becoming too hard?
To prevent the caramel from becoming too hard, avoid cooking it too long once it reaches the amber color. Additionally, you can add a little more water or cream after removing it from heat to help keep it softer.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make this recipe vegan, substitute the mini marshmallows with vegan marshmallows and ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making it a delicious option for vegan recipes.
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).