### Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix – A Sweet Treat for those Holiday Moments
Can you imagine the holidays without the smell of sweet treats wafting through your home? Well, we don’t want you to! We have the perfect recipe for you – Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix. This sweet and salty popcorn combo, mixed with colorful candies and nuts, will be an irresistible favorite at all your holiday gatherings.
### Why make this Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix?
Who wouldn’t want a combination of a light, crunchy popcorn imbued with the decadent flavors of sweet, home-made caramel and a surprise crunch of nuts, topped off with festive holiday candies?
This holiday season, impress your family and friends with this simple and easy to make treat. Not only is it perfect for those cozy movie nights at home, but also makes a great gift! Package it beautifully and it’s the perfect way of showing your loved ones some delicious holiday love.
Plus, this recipe does not require any complex baking skills or ingredients. It is easy, fun, and the outcome is satisfyingly tasty!
### How to Make Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix
Making Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix is a breeze. Follow our step-by-step guide and you’ll have a flavourful treat ready in no time!
#### Ingredients:
– 10 cups popped popcorn
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup mixed nuts
– 1 cup holiday M&M’s or colored candies
#### Directions:
The basic steps are to pop the popcorn, prepare the caramel sauce, mix and bake. Here’s the detailed process, but don’t worry – it’s easier than it sounds!
**Step 1:** Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
**Step 2:** Pop the popcorn and place it in a large bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels. Add mixed nuts to the popcorn.
**Step 3:** Begin to make the caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring frequently. Let it boil without stirring for 5 minutes.
**Step 4:** After 5 minutes, add baking soda and vanilla to the caramel mixture and stir well. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up!
**Step 5:** Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and nuts. Then gently stir until everything is well-coated.
**Step 6:** Spread the coated popcorn evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
**Step 7:** Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.
**Step 8:** Remove from the oven and let the popcorn cool completely. Once cooled, break into clusters and mix with holiday M&M’s.
### How to Serve Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix
This popcorn mix serves as a delightful dessert or a fancy snack, paired perfectly with a warm holiday drink. Alternatively, get creative and wrap it up in festive bags or jars as stunning little edible gifts!
### How to Store the Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix
The popcorn can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It will retain its crunch and taste up to a week.
### Tips to Make Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix
Remember to stir the popcorn mixture every 15 mins while baking to ensure an even caramel coating. Be mindful of any unpopped kernels before adding to the caramel to avoid any unpleasant surprises while enjoying the popcorn
### Variations
You can add dried fruits or swap out the mixed nuts for your favorite nuts. The Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix can also be drizzled with white or dark chocolate for an extra sweet touch!
### FAQs:
**Q: Can I make this recipe without the nuts?**
A: Yes, you can skip the nuts if you prefer or have allergies.
**Q: Can I use microwave popcorn?**
A: Yes, you can use microwave popcorn. Just be sure to choose a plain variety so as not to overpower the caramel flavor.
**Q: Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?**
A: Yes, you can use dark corn syrup. It will just give your caramel a slightly more robust flavor and darker color.
The holidays are about spreading love and happiness, and there’s no better way than with a bowl full of sweet, homemade Holiday Caramel Popcorn Mix! So let’s get the festivities started and pop our cares away!