Save A nostalgic crunchy snack that brings together popcorn apple chips and peanuts with a buttery caramel coating this Caramel Apple Cracker Jacks is perfect for cozy movie nights or festive autumn gatherings.
I first tried combining apple chips with caramel popcorn when searching for a fall-inspired treat for my family and the mix of flavors instantly became a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
- Popcorn Base: 10 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup kernels) 1 cup apple chips broken into bite-size pieces 1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
- Caramel Sauce: 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter 1/4 cup (60 mL) light corn syrup 1/4 cup (60 mL) apple cider 1/2 tsp fine sea salt 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep:
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix Base:
- In a large mixing bowl combine the popped popcorn apple chips and peanuts. Set aside.
- Cook Caramel:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat combine brown sugar butter corn syrup apple cider salt and cinnamon. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil.
- Boil & Finish Caramel:
- Allow the mixture to boil undisturbed for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and immediately stir in baking soda and vanilla extract (mixture will bubble up).
- Combine:
- Quickly pour the hot caramel sauce over the popcorn mixture using a spatula to toss and coat everything evenly.
- Bake:
- Transfer the coated mixture to the prepared baking sheet spreading it out in an even layer. Bake for 45 minutes stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.
- Cool:
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool break into clusters and store in an airtight container.
Save No autumn get-together at our house is complete without a bowl of these on the counter they disappear quickly and everyone requests the recipe.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl saucepan spatula rimmed baking sheet parchment paper or silicone baking mat are needed to make this snack.
Nutritional Information
Each serving is about 280 calories with 12 g total fat 42 g carbohydrates and 4 g protein offering a satisfying snack portion for sharing.
Recipe Variations
For a nut-free twist use roasted pumpkin seeds instead of peanuts or add dried cranberries and a pinch of nutmeg for extra autumn flavor.
Save Enjoy the sweet crunch of Caramel Apple Cracker Jacks at your next gathering and watch them quickly become a new family favorite.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prevent caramel from burning?
Cook the caramel sauce over medium heat and avoid stirring once boiling starts. Remove from heat after 4 minutes for a smooth finish.
- → Can I make this nut-free?
Absolutely! Omit the peanuts or substitute with roasted pumpkin seeds to maintain the crunch without allergens.
- → What’s the best way to keep clusters crunchy?
Allow the snack to cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking into clusters. Store in an airtight container.
- → Are apple chips necessary?
Apple chips add fruity flavor and texture, but you may substitute with dried fruit or omit them if desired.
- → Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, it's great for make-ahead! For best texture, enjoy within five days and keep in a cool, sealed container.
- → How can I add variety?
Try mixing in dried cranberries, a pinch of nutmeg, or switching up seeds and nuts to suit different tastes.