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- 10 cups of popped popcorn - 1 cup of granulated sugar - 1/2 cup of unsalted butter - 1/4 cup of light corn syrup - 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda - 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract - 1/4 teaspoon of salt - 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional) - 1 cup of dried apples, chopped - 1 cup of mixed nuts (optional)

Caramel Apple Popcorn Mix

Discover the delightful taste of fall with Sweet & Crunchy Caramel Apple Popcorn Mix. This easy-to-make snack blends the rich flavors of caramel with the crunch of popcorn and the sweetness of dried apples. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just because, this treat is a hit with both kids and adults. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and sweet-savory combination that captures the essence of autumn. Try it today and elevate your snacking experience!
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Ingredients
  

8 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup kernels)

1 cup apple cider

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup light corn syrup

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup diced dried apples (or apple chips)

1 cup mixed nuts (optional)

1 teaspoon cinnamon (for dusting, optional)

Instructions
 

Pop the Popcorn: Start by popping your popcorn using your preferred method (air-popped or stovetop). Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl, ensuring no unpopped kernels remain.

    Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, granulated sugar, butter, and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil without stirring for about 4-5 minutes until the mixture reaches a deep caramel color.

      Add Baking Soda and Flavoring: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious!

        Combine Popcorn and Caramel: Pour the warm caramel mixture over the popped popcorn, ensuring every piece is coated. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix the popcorn and caramel together.

          Add Dried Apples and Nuts: Fold in the diced dried apples and mixed nuts if using, distributing them evenly throughout the popcorn mixture.

            Transfer to Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the caramel popcorn mix onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spreading it out in an even layer.

              Bake for Crunchiness: Bake the popcorn for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even coating and crunchiness. If desired, sprinkle with cinnamon during the last 10 minutes of baking for added flavor.

                Cool and Store: Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Break it into clusters and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 10