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.
If you're seeking another indulgent treat that combines the best of sweet and savory, don’t miss our Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Corn with Bacon: The Ultimate Sweet-and-Salty Snack. This recipe takes a twist on the classic, adding a unique flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds and make your gatherings even more memorable.

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.
For those who want to master the art of caramel popcorn, our Homemade Caramel Popcorn Recipe: 6 Easy Steps To Perfect Crunch is a must-read. This guide will walk you through simple, effective steps to ensure your caramel popcorn comes out perfectly crunchy every time, elevating your popcorn-making skills.

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