Caramel corn smells great, tastes delicious, and is simple to make!
What you'll need
4 cups of popped popcorn
2 tbsp butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup (dark or light)
1-1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking soda
Optional - 1 cup chopped nuts (pecan, almonds or walnuts)
In a sauce pan, melt the butter, then add sugar and corn syrup. Mix until ingredients are smooth and a light amber color. Now mix in vanilla. Carefully mix in baking soda; this will cause mixture to bubble, so continue to stir and make sure it doesn't boil over. One mixture has reached 250 degrees F, remove from heat.
In a bowl, pour the mixture over the popped corn and stir until the corn is evenly covered. Spread the caramel popcorn evenly on an ungreased cookie sheet (you can place wax paper on the cookie sheet as well). Place in a preheated 350 degree oven for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-20 minutes. The corn will be candied and dried together, so take a couple minutes to break the kernels apart from each other before serving.
Not only does this make a delicious treat, it also makes a tasty party favor or a sweet gift perfect for Christmas, baby showers, birthdays and more. And did I mention how easy it is?!