Praline Popcorn

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There’s something undeniably satisfying about the combination of crunchy popcorn coated in a rich, caramel praline glaze and studded with pecans. This Praline Popcorn recipe is a perfect indulgence for movie nights, holiday treats, or gifting in pretty bags for friends and family. It offers the ideal blend of buttery caramel sweetness, toasted pecans, and light, airy popcorn for a snack that’s absolutely irresistible.

Sweet and Buttery Praline Popcorn

Praline popcorn takes classic caramel popcorn to the next level by incorporating pecans and a buttery praline glaze. The pecans provide a toasty crunch that pairs perfectly with the sticky-sweet caramel coating on each fluffy kernel of popcorn. Whether you’re hosting a party or need a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

The best part? It’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients, and the results are better than any store-bought version. Plus, it stays fresh for days, making it perfect for meal prep snacks or homemade gifts during the holidays!

Let’s dive into the recipe and transform plain popcorn into a decadent treat you won’t want to put down.

Ingredients for Praline Popcorn

To make this sweet, buttery, and crunchy Praline Popcorn, you’ll need simple pantry staples and fresh pecans for that irresistible praline flavor.

• 8 cups popped popcorn – Use freshly popped popcorn, air-popped or stovetop, for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using microwave popcorn with added flavors.
• 1 cup pecans – Toasted pecans add a nutty, rich crunch that perfectly complements the caramel coating.
• 1 cup light brown sugar – Brown sugar creates the rich, caramel-like sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Butter gives the caramel glaze its luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup – Corn syrup helps the caramel stay smooth and prevents it from crystallizing.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Baking soda creates a light and airy caramel coating that sticks evenly to the popcorn.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet aroma and enhances the flavor of the caramel glaze.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the praline flavor.

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How to Make Praline Popcorn

Transforming simple popcorn into this caramelized praline delight is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a perfect, crunchy snack every time:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Spread the popped popcorn evenly on the baking sheet and sprinkle the toasted pecans over the top.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, allow it to simmer for 4-5 minutes without stirring, to thicken and develop a deep caramel flavor.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Baking Soda

Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble and foam slightly – this is normal! The baking soda helps create a light, smooth caramel that coats the popcorn perfectly.

Step 4: Coat the Popcorn

Immediately pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and pecans. Use a heat-safe spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss and coat the popcorn evenly with the caramel. Be careful – the caramel will be hot!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the caramel-coated popcorn in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent burning. Baking the popcorn helps the caramel harden and develop its signature crunch.

Step 6: Cool and Break Apart

Remove the popcorn from the oven and allow it to cool on the baking sheet for at least 10-15 minutes. Once cooled, break the popcorn into clusters and enjoy!

Your sweet and crunchy Praline Popcorn is now ready to be served. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crispy for days.

How Long to Bake Praline Popcorn

The baking process is key to achieving that crunchy, caramel-coated perfection. Baking the popcorn at a low temperature ensures the caramel hardens evenly without burning. Here’s a general guideline for timing:

• Total Baking Time – 45 minutes at 250°F (120°C).
• Stirring – Stir every 15 minutes to ensure the popcorn and pecans are evenly coated with the caramel and to prevent sticking or burning.

You’ll know the praline popcorn is done when the caramel glaze has hardened and the popcorn feels dry to the touch. Be sure to let it cool completely before breaking it into clusters for the perfect texture.

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How to Store Leftovers

Praline popcorn is incredibly easy to store, making it ideal for prepping ahead or gifting. Follow these simple steps to keep it fresh and crunchy:

• Room Temperature – Store the popcorn in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 1 week. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from humidity.
• Avoid Refrigeration – Do not refrigerate praline popcorn, as moisture can cause the caramel to become sticky or soft.
• Freezing – While not necessary, you can freeze praline popcorn in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

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Tips for Perfect Praline Popcorn

To ensure your Praline Popcorn turns out sweet, crunchy, and full of flavor every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Popcorn – For the best results, use plain, freshly popped popcorn without added butter or salt. Air-popped popcorn works perfectly.
• Toast the Pecans – Lightly toasting the pecans before baking brings out their rich, nutty flavor and adds an extra crunch.
• Stir While Baking – Stirring every 15 minutes while baking ensures the caramel coats the popcorn evenly and doesn’t burn.
• Don’t Skip the Baking Soda – Baking soda is the secret to achieving a light and airy caramel coating. It reacts with the sugar to create tiny air bubbles, preventing the caramel from becoming too hard.
• Work Quickly – Once the caramel is ready, work quickly to pour and coat the popcorn while the mixture is still hot. Caramel hardens quickly as it cools.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make praline popcorn without nuts?
Yes! If you prefer nut-free popcorn, simply omit the pecans. The caramel coating will still be delicious on its own.

2. Can I use microwave popcorn?
It’s best to use plain, air-popped popcorn. If you use microwave popcorn, choose unsalted and unbuttered varieties for the best results.

3. How do I keep praline popcorn crispy?
Store the popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid moisture, as it can make the caramel coating sticky.

4. Can I add other toppings to praline popcorn?
Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle in chocolate chips, a pinch of sea salt, or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled popcorn for an extra indulgent treat.

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