Aunt Janes Caramel Corn Recipes

ALMOST-FAMOUS CARAMEL CORN

Steps:

• Put the vegetable oil and a few test popcorn kernels in a large pot. Heat over medium-high heat until the kernels pop, then carefully add the remaining kernels in a single layer. Cover and cook, shaking the pot, until there are several seconds between pops. Transfer the popcorn to a bowl. Lightly oil a baking sheet.
• Wipe out the pot, then add the sugar, corn syrup, molasses, peanut oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and the peanuts. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring often, until a candy thermometer registers 290 degrees F, about 8 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the popcorn until coated. Transfer the caramel corn to the prepared baking sheet and let cool, then break into small pieces.

SISTER MABEL'S CARAMEL CORN

Steps:

• In 2½ quart saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, cream of tartar, and salt. Bring to boil, stirring over medium high heat.
• Stirring constantly, boil rapidly until mixture reaches 260° on candy thermometer.
• Remove from heat. Stir in baking soda quickly but thoroughly. It will bubble!
• Pour at once over popped corn in large baking pan. Stir gently until all kernels are coated. If you are doubling it you will need someone to help you do this FAST. Bake at 200° for 1 hour, stirring 2 or 3 times during baking.
• Turn out at once on wax paper. Spread apart and allow to cool completely. Break into small clusters. Store in tightly-covered containers.

THE EASIEST AND BEST CARAMEL CORN I'VE EVER MADE

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 200°.
• Spray your largest cookie sheets.
• Pop the popcorn in the oil and set aside. I do this in two batches. Place in a very large bowl. (Plastic bowls work really well because the caramel won't stick; you could also spray the bowl with a bit of Pam).
• Over medium heat in a heavy saucepan, melt butter and stir in brown sugar, salt and syrup. Bring to a rolling boil.
• When it starts to boil, boil a full 5 minutes stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. (I used a plastic spatula and ended up sacrificing it)
• Remove from the heat and add the soda. Pour caramel directly on the popcorn and stir to coat completely.
• Pour popcorn onto the sheets and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15-20 minutes. Allow to cool and break into pieces. Store in zip-top bags.