Caramel Apple Cracker Jacks (Printer View)
Caramel-coated popcorn, apple chips, and peanuts blend into a nostalgic, crisp treat ideal for sharing.
# What you'll need:
→ Popcorn Base
01 - 10 cups plain popped popcorn (from approximately 1/2 cup popcorn kernels)
02 - 1 cup apple chips, broken into bite-sized pieces
03 - 1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
→ Caramel Sauce
04 - 1 cup packed light brown sugar
05 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
06 - 1/4 cup light corn syrup
07 - 1/4 cup apple cider
08 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
10 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
11 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
# Method:
01 - Preheat oven to 250°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine popped popcorn, apple chips, and peanuts. Set aside.
03 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add light brown sugar, unsalted butter, corn syrup, apple cider, salt, and cinnamon. Stir continuously until mixture reaches a boil.
04 - Allow caramel mixture to boil undisturbed for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and immediately stir in baking soda and vanilla extract. Expect mixture to bubble up.
05 - Quickly pour the hot caramel sauce over the popcorn mixture. Use a spatula to toss until ingredients are evenly coated.
06 - Transfer coated popcorn mixture to the prepared baking sheet, spreading evenly.
07 - Bake at 250°F for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure thorough caramel coating.
08 - Remove the tray from the oven and allow the mixture to cool completely. Once fully cooled, break into clusters and store in an airtight container.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Crunchy and sweet with autumn flavors
- Easy to make for gatherings or gifts
02 -
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanuts with roasted pumpkin seeds.
- Best enjoyed within 5 days for maximum crunch.
03 -
- Toss the popcorn mixture quickly once you add the hot caramel so it coats evenly.
- Let the cluster cool fully before storing to keep them crisp.