Caramel Popcorn Peanut Clusters (Printable)

Caramel, popcorn, and peanuts combine for a crunchy, sweet, and salty treat everyone enjoys.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base Mixture

01 - 6 cups popped popcorn, unsalted
02 - 1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts

→ Caramel Coating

03 - 1 cup granulated sugar
04 - 0.5 cup unsalted butter
05 - 0.5 cup light corn syrup
06 - 0.25 teaspoon salt
07 - 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract

# How to Make It:

01 - Arrange popped popcorn in a large bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
02 - Add roasted peanuts to the popcorn and gently mix to distribute evenly.
03 - Place sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until butter is melted and mixture is combined.
04 - Increase heat to medium-high and allow mixture to boil for 4 to 5 minutes without stirring, until it reaches a golden color. Remove from heat, stir in baking soda and vanilla extract until thoroughly blended.
05 - Immediately pour hot caramel over popcorn-peanut mixture. Use a spatula to mix and evenly coat all pieces before caramel sets.
06 - Drop coated mixture by heaping tablespoons onto waxed paper or parchment-lined trays, spacing to keep clusters separate.
07 - Allow clusters to cool completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes until firm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Uses simple pantry items you likely have already
  • No fancy equipment required which makes it doable for any kitchen
  • Balanced sweet salty and crunchy flavors in every bite
02 -
  • Perfect for make-ahead snacking or gifting
  • Gluten free and naturally free from artificial ingredients
  • Crowd pleasing treat for all ages and events
03 -
  • Use a light hand when stirring the caramel into the popcorn to keep everything fluffy and prevent smashing
  • Look for fresh high quality nuts since their flavor shines through I always double check for sneaky unpopped kernels before mixing Hot caramel and teeth do not mix well If gifting these cluster wrap in parchment and tie with kitchen twine for a bakery worthy presentation

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