What To Know
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel for a spicy twist.
- Store puffcorn caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Puffcorn is a good source of fiber and carbohydrates, but it is not a significant source of protein.
Indulge in the irresistible combination of fluffy puffcorn and rich, gooey caramel with our delectable puffcorn caramel corn recipe. This treat is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it an irresistible snack for all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 cup puffcorn kernels
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup butter, unsalted and cubed
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
1. Pop the puffcorn: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add puffcorn kernels and shake vigorously until they start popping. Continue shaking until popping subsides.
2. Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened and golden brown.
3. Combine the puffcorn and caramel: Pour the popped puffcorn into a large bowl. Slowly drizzle the hot caramel over the puffcorn, stirring gently to coat evenly.
4. Add the vanilla and baking soda: Stir in vanilla extract and baking soda. The baking soda will cause the caramel to foam and become light and fluffy.
5. Spread and cool: Spread the puffcorn caramel corn mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it cool completely before breaking into pieces.
6. Enjoy: Serve and savor the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite of your homemade puffcorn caramel corn.
Variations
- Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled puffcorn caramel corn for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Nuts and seeds: Add chopped nuts or seeds, such as peanuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds, to the mixture for a crunchy texture.
- Spicy caramel: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel for a spicy twist.
Tips
- Use fresh puffcorn kernels for the best popping results.
- Don’t overcook the caramel, as it will become bitter.
- Stir the caramel constantly to prevent burning.
- Let the puffcorn caramel corn cool completely before breaking into pieces to prevent breaking the caramel coating.
Health Benefits of Puffcorn Caramel Corn
- Whole grain: Puffcorn is a whole grain, providing fiber and essential nutrients.
- Caramel: Caramel contains antioxidants, which can help protect against free radical damage.
- Moderation: Enjoy puffcorn caramel corn in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Recommendations
Our puffcorn caramel corn recipe is the perfect anytime snack that will satisfy your sweet and savory cravings. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy this delicious treat in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use popcorn instead of puffcorn?
A: No, popcorn and puffcorn are different types of corn. Puffcorn is smaller and has a more delicate texture than popcorn.
Q: How long can I store puffcorn caramel corn?
A: Store puffcorn caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can make puffcorn caramel corn up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q: Is puffcorn caramel corn a good source of protein?
A: Puffcorn is a good source of fiber and carbohydrates, but it is not a significant source of protein.
Q: Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
A: Yes, you can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
