Caramel Corn Snack Mix
Ingredients
For the caramel:
1 cup (200 g) brown sugar, packed
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter
¼ cup light corn syrup
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the snack mix:
10 cups popped popcorn (plain, no butter)
2 cups pretzel twists
2 cups Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal
1 cup roasted peanuts (optional)
1 cup mini marshmallows (optional, add after baking)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, combine the popcorn, pretzels, cereal, and peanuts.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from the heat and carefully stir in the vanilla and baking soda. The caramel will foam up.
Immediately pour the caramel over the snack mix. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely. If using mini marshmallows, stir them in once the mix has cooled.
Break into clusters and store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Optional Add-Ins
M&M’s or candy-coated chocolates (add after cooling)
Chocolate chips (add after cooling)
Toasted pecans, almonds, or cashews
Dried cranberries or raisins
A pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor
Enjoy this sweet, crunchy snack mix for parties, movie nights, or homemade gifts!
