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Sister Mabels Caramel Corn Recipe

A family heirloom recipe passed down through generations, Sister Mabel's Caramel Corn is a crunchy, irresistible treat! This unique recipe uses a combination of baking soda and cream of tartar for a perfectly crisp caramel that's anything but sticky. The secret? Mastering the candy temperature – get it just right for a sensational crunch. Double the recipe (it's worth it!) and get ready for a full oven of deliciousness. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, movie nights, or any time you crave a sweet and salty snack.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 90 mins
Calories 548.2 kcal
Protein 5g
Rating 4.7 (3 Reviews)
Sister Mabels Caramel Corn

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Sister Mabels Caramel Corn

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How to Make Sister Mabels Caramel Corn

  1. In a 2-quart saucepan, combine 1 cup packed light brown sugar, ½ cup light corn syrup, 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon cream of tartar, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
  2. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
  3. Continue to stir constantly and boil rapidly until the mixture reaches 260°F (127°C) on a candy thermometer.
  4. Remove from heat immediately.
  5. Quickly and thoroughly stir in 1 teaspoon baking soda. The mixture will foam up dramatically!
  6. Immediately pour the caramel mixture over 6 quarts of popped popcorn in a large, lightly greased baking pan (two 13x9 inch pans for doubled recipe).
  7. Gently stir to ensure all popcorn kernels are evenly coated. (Enlist a helper if doubling the recipe!)
  8. Bake at 200°F (93°C) for 1 hour, stirring gently 2-3 times during baking to prevent sticking.
  9. Remove from oven and immediately turn the caramel corn out onto a large sheet of wax paper.
  10. Spread the caramel corn in a single layer to cool completely.
  11. Once completely cool, break into small clusters.
  12. Store in airtight containers for up to a week (if it lasts that long!).

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

23 g

Sugar

235g

Fat

45g

Carbs

29g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Time To Make Course Preparation Occasion Low Protein Desserts Holiday Event Dietary Low In Something 4 Hours Or Less