Easy Caramel Popcorn Recipe Without Corn Syrup
Who doesn't love caramel popcorn? It's a classic snack that's perfect for movie nights, game days, or just snacking on throughout the day. However, most caramel popcorn recipes use corn syrup as a key ingredient, which can be hard to find in some areas and may not be the healthiest option. So, we've created a delicious and easy caramel popcorn recipe without corn syrup that you can make at home!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 10 cups popped popcorn
Note: Make sure to use unsalted butter for this recipe, as salted butter can make the popcorn too salty.
Instructions
Before you start, make sure you have all of your ingredients measured and ready to go. This will make the process much easier!
- Preheat your oven to 250°F.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar, honey, and salt to the saucepan and stir until combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam up, so be careful!
- Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and toss until the popcorn is evenly coated.
- Spread the popcorn out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the popcorn for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure that it bakes evenly.
- Remove the popcorn from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
That's it! You now have a delicious batch of caramel popcorn without corn syrup that's perfect for snacking on anytime. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Why Avoid Corn Syrup?
While corn syrup is a common ingredient in many recipes, it's important to note that it's not the healthiest option. Corn syrup is often made from genetically modified corn, and it's a highly processed sweetener that's been linked to several health problems, including obesity and heart disease. Additionally, many people are allergic to corn or are on low-carb diets, which make this caramel popcorn recipe a great alternative.
Final Thoughts
Making caramel popcorn without corn syrup is easy, delicious, and a healthier option. By using honey instead of corn syrup, you'll get a similar level of sweetness without any of the negative health effects. Plus, this recipe is so simple that it's a great way to get your kids involved in the kitchen. Give it a try the next time you're in the mood for a sweet snack!