Ingredients for Easy Cracker Jacks
- Microwave Popcorn
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- White Karo
- 1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Baking Soda
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How to Make Easy Cracker Jacks
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Generously grease a large roasting pan with cooking spray.
- In a large saucepan, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add 1 cup of light corn syrup (Karo) to the melted butter.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.
- Boil for exactly 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
- While the sugar mixture simmers, pop 5 bags (approximately 10 cups) of popcorn. Place in a large bowl that has been lightly coated with cooking spray.
- Remove the sugar mixture from the heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, then quickly stir in 1 teaspoon of baking soda. The mixture will foam up.
- Carefully pour the hot sugar mixture over the popcorn in the bowl. Use a large wooden spoon to thoroughly coat all the popcorn.
- Pour the coated popcorn into the prepared roasting pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 1 hour at 250°F (120°C), stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Remove from oven and immediately transfer the Cracker Jacks to a large bowl. Gently break apart any large clumps using a wooden spoon while the mixture is still warm.
- Let the Cracker Jacks cool completely. Once cool, store in an airtight container or large zip-top bag for up to a week (if they last that long!).
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
6 g
Sugar
138g
Fat
29g
Carbs
17g
