Description
Sweet caramel praline popcorn brings Southern charm to classic movie snacks with rich buttery notes. Crunchy kernels glazed in brown sugar and pecans create an irresistible treat that delights snackers seeking indulgent southern comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about 0.5 cup unpopped kernels)
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
Praline Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 0.25 cup light corn syrup
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a gentle 250F (120C), creating an ideal environment for caramelizing the sweet coating.
- Carefully prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Distribute the freshly popped popcorn and roughly chopped pecans across the baking sheet in an even, single layer to guarantee uniform caramelization.
- In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt, heating the mixture over medium heat while stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Allow the caramel mixture to reach a smooth, bubbling consistency, continuing to stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the color deepens to a rich amber.
- Remove the caramel from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract and baking soda, which will cause the mixture to foam and become lighter in texture.
- Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popcorn and pecans, using a spatula to gently fold and coat every kernel and nut with the sweet praline glaze.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
- Once the praline popcorn achieves a deep golden color and becomes crisp, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Break the cooled praline popcorn into clusters and store in an airtight container for maximum crunchiness and flavor preservation.
Notes
- Opt for freshly popped, plain popcorn to control sweetness and avoid artificial flavors.
- Toast pecans lightly before adding to enhance their nutty, rich flavor profile.
- Try alternative nuts like almonds or walnuts for different textural and taste variations.
- Use a candy thermometer when making the praline coating to ensure perfect caramelization without burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg