Salted Pecan Caramel Popcorn

Sweet and savory, this irresistible mix brings a delightful twist to any occasion.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach
Created on

Introduction to Salted Pecan Caramel Popcorn

Salted Pecan Caramel Popcorn is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of caramel, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the savory flavor of salt. This recipe is perfect for movie nights, parties, or as a quick and delicious snack any time of the day. It’s so addictive that you’ll find yourself devouring handful after handful!

Ingredients Needed

  • Popcorn: Unpopped popcorn kernels are the base of this recipe. You can use any type of popcorn, but the results will be best with a good quality popcorn.
  • Pecans: Toasted pecan halves add a delightful crunch and flavor. You can toast them lightly in a skillet before baking.
  • Caramel Ingredients: Organic cane sugar, unsulphured molasses, honey, butter, and baking soda are used to make the caramel.
  • Seasoning: Salt is essential to balance the sweetness, and you can use pink Himalayan salt for a more unique flavor.

Instructions for Making Salted Pecan Caramel Popcorn

Here’s how you can make this delicious treat:

  1. Toast the Pecans: Begin by roughly chopping the pecans. Then, toast them lightly in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes. This initial toasting ensures they don’t get too dark during the baking process.
  2. Pop the Popcorn: Use a popcorn popper or a pot on the stovetop to pop the kernels. You can also use red palm oil for a distinctive flavor and color.
  3. Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add cane sugar, molasses, and honey. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Add Baking Soda: Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in baking soda. The mixture will foam up, so whisk it vigorously.
  5. Coat the Popcorn and Pecans: Pour the caramel over the popcorn and toasted pecans in a large bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Bake the Caramel Popcorn: Spread the caramel-coated popcorn mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or roasting pan. Sprinkle with salt. Bake at 200°F (95°C) for an hour, stirring every 15 minutes.

Tips and Variations

This recipe is quite versatile and can be adapted based on your preferences:

  • Alternative Nuts: Feel free to use other nuts like pistachios, peanuts, or cashews if you prefer.
  • Spices: Adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can enhance the flavor.
  • Storage: The caramel popcorn can be stored at room temperature for a few days or longer in the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use different types of sugar for the caramel?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of sugar, but organic cane sugar provides a richer flavor.

Q: How do I prevent the caramel from burning during baking?

A: Stir the caramel popcorn mixture every 15 minutes while baking to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

This recipe makes a large batch of caramel popcorn, perfect for gatherings or movie nights. You can serve it in brown paper bags for a charming presentation.

Recipe DetailsInformation
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Servings16 servings (about 16 cups)
Calories per ServingApproximately 267 calories

Conclusion

Salted Pecan Caramel Popcorn is a delightful treat that combines the best of sweet and savory flavors. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a movie night, a party, or just a quick snack. With its addictive flavor and crunchy texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

Sneha Tete
Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete