Ingredients for Cracker Jack
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Water
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 6 quarts popped popcorn
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup roasted peanuts or other nuts (optional)
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How to Make Cracker Jack
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup light corn syrup, and 2 tablespoons white vinegar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Continue cooking, without stirring, until the mixture reaches a deep amber color (around 235-240°F on a candy thermometer). Be careful not to burn!
- Immediately remove from heat and carefully pour the caramel mixture over 6 quarts of popped popcorn in a large bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all the popcorn evenly.
- Spread the coated popcorn onto a large, lightly buttered baking sheet to cool and crisp.
- Once completely cool, break the popcorn into smaller pieces for easier serving.
- Optional: Add 1 cup of roasted peanuts or other nuts to the popcorn before coating with the caramel.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
3 g
Sugar
166g
Fat
37g
Carbs
17g
