Caramel Popcorn

Kids Cooking

Popcorn is currently one of America’s favorite snack foods. It is one of the oldest types of corn with some types dating back to 3600 BC. There are two types of popcorn, pearl and rice with varieties available in red, pink, blue, yellow, and multi-colored ears. Popcorn is grown for its tasty, exploding seed. Heating the kernel converts the moisture inside the kernel to steam and turns the seed inside out. Store kernels in sealed airtight containers. For variation try adding unsalted roasted peanuts, toasted sunflower seeds, trail mix, or candy corn.

Preparation time: About 20 minutes

Equipment you’ll need: Popcorn popper, large bowl, wooden spoon, solid (nested) measuring cups, and small serving bowls.

Safety: Ask for adult supervision when melting caramels and pouring hot caramel over popcorn mixture.

Recipe:

1/2 cup popcorn, popped (about 10 cups)

1 pound caramels

1 3-ounce package M&M candies

1. Pop popcorn. Do not salt. Pour into large bowl and mix in M&M candies.

2. Unwrap caramels and place in saucepan and cover. Cook over low heat and uncover

once caramels begin to melt. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon to reduce air

bubbles.

3. Pour caramel over popcorn mixture and toss well.

4. Let the caramel corn mixture set up and cool before eating.

5. Serve in small bowls.

Yield: 10 servings.

Clean up: Soak saucepan in hot soapy water immediately after melting caramels. Leave a clean kitchen!

Carolyn Gass Hardimon, M. S. Family and Consumer Science Home Economist

www.recipeladies.com