Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds
There’s something irresistibly charming about the crunch of popcorn combined with the rich sweetness of caramel and the delightful nuttiness of almonds. This Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it the ultimate snack for movie nights, parties, or simply enjoying on a cozy evening at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone reaching for more!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets this Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds apart is the combination of homemade caramel, which is soft yet crunchy, and the addition of Blue Diamond Roasted Salted Almonds that add a delightful crunch and a touch of sophisticated flavor. The blend of sweet and salty is pure bliss, and the almonds give it an extra nutrient boost, making it not just a treat but a more wholesome snack.
Ingredient Breakdown
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels (popped, about 8 cups) – The base of this recipe. Use fresh kernels for the best pop and flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – This creates the rich, buttery flavor that complements the caramel.
- 1/4 cup corn syrup – Helps create the perfect texture for the caramel, preventing crystallization.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth, making the caramel luxuriously rich.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the caramel.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – For a hint of warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp baking soda – This helps lighten the caramel and gives it a lovely texture.
- 6 oz Blue Diamond Roasted Salted Almonds – Adds an irresistible crunch and flavor to the popcorn.
Hardware & Gadgets
- Large pot or popcorn maker – Essential for popping your popcorn kernels perfectly.
- Large mixing bowl – To combine the popcorn and caramel mixture easily.
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan – Necessary for making the caramel sauce without burning.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Ideal for stirring the caramel and coating the popcorn evenly.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – For spreading the popcorn to cool and harden.
How to Prepare Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds
Step 1: Pop the Popcorn
Start by popping the popcorn kernels. You can use a popcorn maker or heat a large pot over medium heat with a lid. Add the kernels, cover, and shake the pot occasionally until you hear the popping slow down. Once done, transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the corn syrup, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Baking Soda
Allow the caramel to boil for about 4-5 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat, and carefully stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious!
Step 4: Combine with Popcorn and Almonds
Quickly pour the caramel over the popped popcorn and roasted salted almonds in the mixing bowl. Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, gently fold the popcorn and almonds into the caramel until fully coated.
Step 5: Bake for Extra Crunch
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the caramel-coated popcorn and almonds evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and crunchiness.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Break apart any clumps, and enjoy your Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds as a delightful snack or dessert!
Smart Substitutions
- Instead of unsalted butter, you can use coconut oil for a vegan option.
- For a lower sugar alternative, consider using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
- If you prefer a different nut, pecans or walnuts can be substituted for the almonds.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel mixture.
Cook’s Notes
- Make sure to keep an eye on the caramel while cooking to prevent burning.
- For a more decadent treat, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled popcorn.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
- Store the popcorn in an airtight container to maintain its crunch.
Save It for Later
If you find yourself with leftovers (though we doubt it!), this Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid any moisture buildup that could make it soggy.
Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds FAQs
Can I use microwave popcorn instead of popping my own kernels?
Yes, you can use microwave popcorn, but make sure to choose a plain or lightly salted variety to avoid overpowering the caramel flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as all the ingredients used are free from gluten. Just double-check your labels, especially on the corn syrup!
Can I freeze the popcorn for later use?
Freezing is not recommended for caramel popcorn, as it can lose its crispy texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored at room temperature.
What should I do if my caramel hardens too much?
If your caramel hardens, you can gently reheat it on low heat, stirring continuously until it becomes pourable again.
Bring It Home
This Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds is not just a snack; it’s an experience that brings joy to every bite. Whether you’re preparing for a movie night or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. The combination of flavors is utterly delightful, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself whipping it up again and again. So gather your ingredients, pop that corn, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this deliciousness!
Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by popping the popcorn kernels. You can use a popcorn maker or heat a large pot over medium heat with a lid. Add the kernels, cover, and shake the pot occasionally until you hear the popping slow down. Once done, transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the corn syrup, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Allow the caramel to boil for about 4-5 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat, and carefully stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious!
- Quickly pour the caramel over the popped popcorn and roasted salted almonds in the mixing bowl. Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, gently fold the popcorn and almonds into the caramel until fully coated.
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the caramel-coated popcorn and almonds evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and crunchiness.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Break apart any clumps, and enjoy your Salted Caramel Popcorn with Almonds as a delightful snack or dessert!
Notes
- Keep an eye on the caramel while cooking to prevent burning.
- For a decadent treat, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled popcorn.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
