Quacker Jacks
Quacker Jacks are a crunchy, sweet and nutty popcorn treat with a rich caramel flavor, perfect for snacking at gatherings or movie nights with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- In a large saucepan, melt 2 sticks of butter or margarine over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar, light corn syrup, and salt to the melted butter; stir until well combined and bring to a boil.
- Boil for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in baking soda; mixture will foam.
- Pour caramel sauce over the popped popcorn and peanuts, mixing well to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture onto a greased baking sheet or large roasting pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the caramel sauce. If you're short on peanuts, almonds or cashews can be great substitutes. Ensure to stir the caramel continuously to prevent burning, and use an oil spray on your baking sheet to prevent sticking. This treat pairs beautifully with Lois' Rhubarb Nut Bread for a delightful snack assortment.
Serving Suggestions
Quacker Jacks make a fantastic snack for movie nights or gatherings. Serve them in individual cups for easy sharing, or pair with a sweet dip such as caramel or chocolate sauce for added indulgence. They also complement a festive spread alongside treats like Applescotch Crisp, creating a delightful dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Quacker Jacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating, as this can make them chewy. If they lose some crunch, you can re-bake them at a low temperature for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quacker Jacks contains roughly 299 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 10g 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 microwave popcorn for this recipe?
Yes, you can use microwave popcorn, but make sure to use plain, unbuttered popcorn to avoid altering the flavor of the caramel. Just ensure you pop enough to yield about 5 quarts, as the amount can vary by brand.
What can I do if my caramel sauce is too thick?
If your caramel sauce turns out too thick, you can stir in a tablespoon of warm water or milk to thin it out. Heat it gently on the stove while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency before pouring it over the popcorn.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter or margarine with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Just check the labels to ensure they align with your dietary preferences, making it suitable for vegetarian 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).