Oven Made Caramel Corn
Sweet, crunchy caramel corn mixed with peanuts and pecans creates a delightful snack perfect for parties, movie nights, or satisfying a sweet and salty craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine popped corn, roasted peanuts, and pecans in a large roasting pan.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan; stir in brown sugar, sugar, corn syrup, and salt.
- Bring to a boil; boil for 5 minutes, stirring often (temperature will be about 244°).
- Remove from heat; stir in baking soda.
- Pour the sugar mixture over the popped corn and nuts; stir well.
- Bake at 250°F for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Cool the caramel corn completely.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best caramel corn, make sure your popcorn is freshly popped and unseasoned. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the peanuts and pecans with additional popcorn or use pretzels for a crunchy twist. Adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or experimenting with different types of sugar, like coconut sugar. For a fun variation, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the caramel mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Caramel corn makes a delightful snack for movie nights or parties, and it pairs beautifully with an Apple Sundae Pudding for dessert. You can also serve it in festive bags as a treat for guests or as a homemade gift. For a savory balance, consider serving it alongside a fresh Lime-Vegetable Salad to complement the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover caramel corn, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks when kept in a cool, dry place. If you need to re-crisp it, spread the caramel corn on a baking sheet and warm it in a 250°F oven for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Made Caramel Corn contains roughly 1037 calories, with 11g protein, 154g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (135% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1031mg per serving (45% 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 microwave popcorn for this recipe?
While microwave popcorn can be used, it's best to pop your own corn to ensure it's fresh and unsalted. This allows you to control the flavor and texture of the final product. If using microwave popcorn, opt for a plain variety without added butter or salt.
How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?
To keep your caramel corn chewy rather than hard, be careful not to overcook the caramel mixture. Boil it just until it reaches the desired temperature (about 244°F). Additionally, storing it in an airtight container will help maintain its texture.
Can I add other ingredients to the caramel corn?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients like chocolate chips, M&Ms, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful to adjust the baking time if you're adding ingredients that may burn easily.
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).