Popcorn, apple chips, and peanuts tossed in caramel for a crunchy, nostalgic snack to share and enjoy.
# Components:
→ Popcorn Base
01 - 10 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup popcorn kernels)
02 - 1 cup apple chips, broken into bite-size pieces
03 - 1 cup roasted, unsalted peanuts
→ Caramel Sauce
04 - 1 cup packed light brown sugar
05 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
06 - 1/4 cup light corn syrup
07 - 1/4 cup apple cider
08 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
10 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
11 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 250°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
02 - Add popped popcorn, apple chips, and roasted peanuts to a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to mix.
03 - Combine brown sugar, unsalted butter, corn syrup, apple cider, fine sea salt, and ground cinnamon in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until mixture begins to boil.
04 - Allow caramel mixture to boil undisturbed for 4 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in baking soda and vanilla extract until caramel foams and thickens.
05 - Immediately pour hot caramel sauce over popcorn mixture. Use a spatula to toss and ensure even coating.
06 - Spread coated popcorn mixture evenly onto prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to maintain uniform coating.
07 - Remove baking sheet from oven and allow mixture to cool completely. Once cooled, break into clusters. Store in an airtight container.
