Get ready to elevate your snack game with the most irresistible treat that combines the sweet crunch of caramel corn with a bold whiskey kick! This isn't your ordinary movie night popcorn - this is a grown-up, flavor-packed experience that will transform your taste buds and impress every single guest. Imagine the perfect balance of buttery caramel, a hint of whiskey warmth, and that satisfying popcorn crunch that'll have you reaching for handful after handful!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 10 cups popcorn, popped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup whiskey
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature will help the caramel corn bake evenly without burning.
- In a large bowl, combine the 10 cups of popped popcorn. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels to avoid a crunchy surprise later.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of corn syrup, and 1/4 cup of whiskey.
- Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Allow it to boil for about 4-5 minutes without stirring until it reaches a golden caramel color. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the 1 tsp of vanilla extract and salt to taste. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious.
- Quickly pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn in the large bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold the popcorn until it is evenly coated with the caramel.
- Spread the caramel-coated popcorn evenly onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to break apart any clumps to ensure even baking.
- Bake the popcorn in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick together.
- Once baked, remove the popcorn from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. It will become crisp as it cools.
- Once cooled, break apart any large clumps of caramel corn and store it in an airtight container. Enjoy your whiskey ginger caramel corn as a delicious snack!
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality popped popcorn for the best texture and flavor. Avoid microwave popcorn with added butter or seasoning.
- Watch your caramel mixture carefully - the difference between perfect caramel and burnt sugar is just seconds!
- For an extra flavor twist, try using a ginger-infused whiskey to enhance the complexity of your caramel corn.
- Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Allow the caramel corn to cool completely before storing to maintain its crispy texture.
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to a week - if it lasts that long!
- For a more intense whiskey flavor, you can add an extra splash of whiskey when mixing the caramel with popcorn.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
