Saturday, November 23, 2013

Cinnamon Bun Caramel Corn


Ask my friends, I happily share recipes with anyone who asks. There is not really a point in a home cook keeping a recipe a secret. That being said, I almost didn't want to share this recipe with you. I think I could become a rock star with this recipe! Just kidding! It takes caramel corn to a new high.  This is one that you should just go make. Like right now. You will thank me. Your family will thank me! To give credit where credit is due, I found this recipe in Our Best Bites cookbook, page 257.

Cinnamon Bun Caramel Corn

12 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup un-popped kernels, popped)
1 cup roughly chopped pecans
1 cup brown sugar
3/4 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 cup real butter
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. baking soda
3 squares almond bark

Preheat oven to 250ยบ. Place popped popcorn and pecans in a large bowl, set aside. Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a  large microwave safe bowl. Mix well. Chop the butter into chunks and place on top of the brown sugar. Pour corn syrup on top of the butter. Microwave on high for 30 seconds and stir. Return to microwave and cook on high for 2 minutes. Remove and stir. Microwave for 2 more minutes, and stir. Add vanilla and baking soda, stir to combine. Pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn mixture. Stir very well so it all can be coated in caramel. Spread the popcorn on to a foil lined baking sheet. Place in the oven and cook for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. Remove pan and spread the hot popcorn out onto parchment paper or waxed paper. Melt the almond bark in the microwave according to package directions. Drizzle over the caramel corn. Once the almond bark has hardened, break the popcorn into chunks.
* You might want to hide a stash away, I speak from experience. My kids inhaled this popcorn!