Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. This low heat will help the caramel corn bake evenly and become nice and crunchy.
- Line a very large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the caramel corn won’t stick.
- In a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat, warm the coconut oil until it shimmers. This means it's hot enough to pop the kernels!
- Add the popcorn kernels to the pot. Partially cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to let steam escape. Once you hear the kernels start to pop, this is the exciting part!
- Reduce the heat to medium and cover the pot completely. Keep shaking the pot every 30 seconds to ensure the popcorn pops evenly and doesn’t burn. You’ll know it’s ready when the popping slows to just a couple of seconds between pops.
- Remove the pot from heat and set it aside. Let the popcorn cool slightly while you prepare the caramel.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla and baking soda. Carefully, as the mixture may bubble and hiss a bit after you add these ingredients. This reaction creates a light, fluffy caramel!
- Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and stir well to coat every piece evenly. This is where the magic happens; you’ll see the beautiful caramel enveloping the fluffy popcorn!
- Quickly spread the popcorn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to allow for even baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. This slow bake helps the caramel adhere to the popcorn and develops that irresistible crunch.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, gently break apart any clumps before serving.
Notes
To keep your caramel corn fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid the fridge, as humidity can make it chewy. You can freeze caramel corn for later enjoyment! Just make sure it’s completely cool and stored in a freezer-safe bag or container. This sweet treat pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa or a chilled glass of milk. Pack your caramel corn in pretty bags or jars to give as gifts during the holidays. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using less sugar or substituting with a sugar alternative.