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Flavorful Patriotic Popcorn Mix Recipe Easy Sweet Salty Crunch

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A festive and easy-to-make popcorn mix combining sweet caramel coating with salty pretzels and colorful candy pieces for a perfect patriotic snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup popcorn kernels (about 100g), plain, unpopped
  • 1 cup mini pretzels (50g)
  • 1/2 cup candied peanuts (75g)
  • 1 cup red, white & blue candy pieces (150g), such as M&M’s or candy-coated chocolates
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60g), melted
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50g), packed
  • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup (30ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the 1/2 cup popcorn kernels, cover, and shake the pot occasionally until popping slows (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and pour into a large bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the 4 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 1/4 cup brown sugar and 2 tablespoons light corn syrup. Bring to a gentle boil and let it cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring until the mixture thickens slightly and bubbles.
  3. Remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. The mixture will foam a bit.
  4. Immediately pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn in the large bowl. Add 1 cup mini pretzels and 1/2 cup candied peanuts. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
  5. Spread the coated popcorn mix onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat in an even layer. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent clumps and ensure even coating.
  6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle 1 cup red, white, and blue candy pieces over the warm mix. Gently fold in to combine, then let cool completely on the sheet before breaking into clusters.
  7. Once cooled, transfer the patriotic popcorn mix to an airtight container. Store at room temperature.

Notes

Pop your own popcorn kernels for best texture; add candy pieces after baking to prevent melting; baking at low temperature sets caramel without overcooking; stirring halfway through baking prevents clumping. For nut-free, substitute candied peanuts with extra pretzels or roasted chickpeas. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free pretzels or roasted chickpeas.

Nutrition

Keywords: popcorn mix, patriotic snack, sweet and salty, Fourth of July, caramel popcorn, party snack, easy recipe

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/flavorful-patriotic-popcorn-mix-recipe-easy-sweet-salty-crunch/