Print

Irresistible Cracker Jack Caramel Popcorn Balls Recipe Easy and Perfect for Parties

cracker jack caramel popcorn balls - featured image
Print Recipe

These Cracker Jack caramel popcorn balls with peanuts are a quick, nostalgic, sweet and salty treat perfect for parties and casual gatherings. They come together in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients and a homemade caramel coating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (90g) popcorn kernels, popped fresh or about 12 cups (280g) pre-popped plain popcorn
  • 1 cup (140g) roasted, unsalted peanuts
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) light corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Instructions

  1. Pop the popcorn: Heat 1/2 cup (90g) popcorn kernels in a large pot over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil, shaking occasionally. Once popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, remove from heat. Transfer popped corn to a large bowl, removing any unpopped kernels. Add 1 cup (140g) roasted peanuts and gently toss.
  2. Prepare the caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup (60ml) light corn syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly. Once boiling, let it cook without stirring for 4-5 minutes until it reaches a deep amber color and thickens slightly.
  3. Finish the caramel: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. The mixture will foam up slightly.
  4. Combine popcorn and caramel: Immediately pour the caramel over the popcorn and peanuts. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold the mixture until all popcorn is evenly coated.
  5. Shape the popcorn balls: Grease your hands with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Working quickly, scoop about 1/2 cup (120ml) of the mixture and press firmly into a ball shape. Place on parchment paper to cool. Repeat until all mixture is used.
  6. Cool completely: Let the popcorn balls sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes until firm. Store in an airtight container once cooled.

Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning the caramel. Do not stir the caramel once boiling to avoid graininess. Work quickly when mixing caramel with popcorn as it cools fast. Grease hands well to prevent sticking when shaping balls. Baking soda aerates the caramel for lighter texture. Store popcorn balls in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. They freeze well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cracker Jack, caramel popcorn balls, peanuts, sweet and salty snack, party treat, easy popcorn balls, nostalgic snack

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/irresistible-cracker-jack-caramel-popcorn-balls-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-parties/