Sunday, December 7, 2008

Nutty Craisin Caramel Corn

2 quarts popped popcorn, unpopped kernels removed
3/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1/3 cup water
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 6-ounce Ocean Spray® Craisins® Original Sweetened Dried Cranberries
1 cup nuts or chocolate chips
1 cup honey roasted peanuts

Preparation
Place popped corn in large bowl; set aside.

Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup and water in medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Brush sides of pan with pastry brush dipped in water to remove any sugar crystals. Boil until mixture reaches 300° F (hard crack stage), about 6 to 8 minutes.

Remove from heat. Carefully stir in butter, salt, baking soda and vanilla. Pour syrup over popcorn; toss to coat. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Break up into chunks. Cool completely.

Combine cooled caramel corn with remaining ingredients. Mix gently.

Caution: Caramel is very hot and can cause severe burns. Use caution when handling.