Praline Popcorn: A Sweet, Crunchy Treat

Why settle for plain buttered popcorn when you can elevate your snack game with the delicious, caramel-like crunch of praline popcorn? If you’re familiar with the rich taste of southern pecan pralines, you’ll know just what a treat you’re in for. Add some popcorn to the mix, and you have a snack that’s almost impossible to resist. Perfect for parties or cozy movie nights, this praline popcorn brings joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

At home, we usually enjoy air-popped popcorn with a simple touch of butter and salt. But when I surprise the family with a bowl of this praline popcorn, cheers of delight fill the room. While it takes a bit more effort than your typical popcorn, the result is truly worth it. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, making it an unforgettable treat.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large bowl
• Large saucepan
• Large rimmed sheet pan
• Foil or parchment paper

Ingredients

• 8 cups popped popcorn
• 2 cups pecan halves
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the popped popcorn and pecan halves.
3. In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir occasionally and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. This will give the mixture its characteristic candy crunch.
5. Pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn and pecans, and toss everything together to coat evenly.
6. Spread the mixture out onto a large rimmed sheet pan. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even coating.
7. Once done, spread the popcorn out onto foil or parchment paper to cool. Break apart any large clusters once it’s cool. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Make sure to stir the popcorn mixture every 10 minutes during baking to achieve an even coating. Cooling the popcorn on parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to break apart.

Additional Tips and Variations

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking. You could also substitute walnuts or almonds if pecans aren’t your favorite.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving includes an approximate balance of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, making it a delightful treat. However, enjoy in moderation as it’s a rich, calorie-dense snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes, just opt for a version that’s light on butter and salt to avoid overpowering the praline flavor.

How do I store leftover praline popcorn?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain its crunchiness.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful praline popcorn as much as we do. It’s a sweet, crunchy treat that’s sure to be a hit with friends and family alike. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative variations you come up with!