Get ready to transform your snack game with the most addictive treat you'll ever experience! Imagine a perfect storm of crunchy popcorn, rich coconut oil, and a luxurious caramel coating that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. This Salted Caramel Coconut Popcorn isn't just a snack – it's a gourmet experience that combines the irresistible crunch of perfectly popped kernels with the decadent sweetness of homemade caramel. Whether you're movie night enthusiast, a sweet-and-salty lover, or just someone who appreciates mind-blowing flavor combinations, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients: 1/2 cup popcorn kernels, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup coconut oil, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 cup water, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
- In a large pot or popcorn maker, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add a few popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it. Wait until you hear them pop, which indicates the oil is hot enough.
- Once the test kernels pop, add the remaining popcorn kernels to the pot. Cover it with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Shake the pot occasionally to ensure even popping and prevent burning.
- Continue cooking until the popping slows down to about 2 seconds between pops. Remove the pot from heat and carefully transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and sea salt. Stir gently to combine, then place the saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Allow it to boil for about 5-7 minutes until it turns a deep amber color. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Once the caramel reaches the desired color, remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract. Be cautious, as the mixture may bubble up.
- Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popped popcorn. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently toss the popcorn to coat it evenly with the caramel.
- Allow the salted caramel popcorn to cool for a few minutes. As it cools, the caramel will harden slightly, creating a delicious crunchy coating.
- Once cooled, break apart any clusters and serve the salted caramel coconut popcorn in bowls or store it in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
Tips
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution when making caramel to prevent burning.
- Watch your caramel carefully – the difference between perfect amber and burnt is just seconds!
- Keep a close eye on popping kernels and remove from heat when there are 2-3 seconds between pops to avoid burning.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting coconut flakes and sprinkling them over the finished popcorn.
- Let the caramel cool slightly before coating to prevent soggy popcorn.
- Use a silicone spatula for easier mixing and less mess when coating the popcorn.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness – if it lasts that long!
- For a fun variation, sprinkle some sea salt on top after coating for an extra flavor punch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 0mg
