Name: Peanut Butter Caramel Corn
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups white chocolate chips (or white almond bark or Candiquik); 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy); 8-12 ounces caramel corn (store-bought or homemade); 25 miniature Reese's peanut butter cups (chopped); 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

If you’re on the hunt for a sweet and crunchy treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and caramel, you are in for a delightful surprise! Peanut Butter Caramel Corn is the perfect snack for movie nights, parties, or simply when you want to indulge yourself. This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up and will leave you and your loved ones craving more. Let’s dive into this irresistible treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Top Reasons to Make Peanut Butter Caramel Corn

– **Irresistible Flavor Combination:** The sweet, buttery caramel corn mixed with creamy peanut butter creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
– **Quick and Easy:** This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute snack or dessert option.
– **Versatile Treat:** Peanut Butter Caramel Corn can be served at parties, packed in snack bags for school lunches, or enjoyed during a cozy movie night at home.
– **Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite toppings or swapping out ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Gather These Ingredients

2 cups white chocolate chips or you can use white almond bark or Candiquik, see note
1/2 cup peanut butter – creamy or crunchy, depending on your preference
8-12 ounces caramel corn – store-bought or homemade, whichever you prefer
25 miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups – chopped into pieces for added texture and flavor
1/2 cup chocolate chips – optional, for those who want an extra chocolatey touch

What’s in the Gear List

Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients easily.
Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting your white chocolate and peanut butter.
Spatula: To mix everything together smoothly.
Baking Sheet: To spread out your Peanut Butter Caramel Corn for cooling.
Wax Paper or Parchment Paper: To line your baking sheet and prevent sticking.

Mastering Peanut Butter Caramel Corn: How-To

Step 1: Melt the White Chocolate and Peanut Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and peanut butter. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat, as chocolate can burn easily.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Corn

In a large mixing bowl, add the caramel corn. If you are using homemade caramel corn, ensure it is fully cooled before mixing.

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

Pour the melted white chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the caramel corn. Using a spatula, gently fold the caramel corn into the mixture until evenly coated.

Step 4: Add Chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Sprinkle the chopped miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups into the mixture and fold them in gently to distribute evenly throughout the caramel corn.

Step 5: Spread and Cool

Spread the coated caramel corn mixture onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment paper. If you are using chocolate chips, you can sprinkle them on top at this stage. Allow it to cool completely, which will help it set.

Step 6: Break Apart and Serve

Once cooled, break the Peanut Butter Caramel Corn into pieces. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Quick Replacement Ideas

Nut Butters: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sun butter for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate Variations: Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer taste.
Caramel Corn: If you don’t have caramel corn, you can use popcorn drizzled with a homemade caramel sauce.
Miniature Candies: Feel free to swap out Reese’s with other candies like M&M’s or Snickers bits for a fun twist.

Insider Tips

For an even more decadent treat, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cooled Peanut Butter Caramel Corn.
If you want a saltier contrast, sprinkle a little sea salt on top before it cools.
Make sure to let the peanut butter and chocolate mixture cool slightly before mixing with the caramel corn to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Store the finished product in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Peanut Butter Caramel Corn can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for party prep or holiday gifting. Here’s how to do it:

Prepare the Peanut Butter Caramel Corn and allow it to cool completely.
Once cooled, store it in an airtight container for up to a week without losing its crunch.
If you plan to make it further ahead, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and allow it to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Let’s Eat

Now that you have mastered the art of making Peanut Butter Caramel Corn, it’s time to gather your friends and family to enjoy this delightful treat. The sweetness of the caramel, the creaminess of the peanut butter, and the crunch of the corn come together to create a snack that is simply irresistible. Whether you serve it at a gathering or keep it for yourself, this Peanut Butter Caramel Corn is bound to bring smiles and satisfy cravings. So, grab a bowl, dig in, and indulge in the deliciousness that awaits!