Are you a sweet or a salty snacker?
Perhaps both?
Or maybe you’re not a snacker at all. If that’s that case, then… I don’t understand you, but we’re still cool.
If you are a sweet-salty snacker, then consider your craving satisfied.
Much less sugary than typical caramel corn, this version includes peanuts and peanut butter for texture, flavor, and an added kick of protein.
The vegan peanut butter caramel sauce comes together in just a couple of minutes, and is drizzled over freshly popped corn and salted peanuts before baking baked until light and crunchy.
Yum.
NOTE: this is a less sweet version of the classic caramel corn, rendering it ideal for satiating a snack – rather than dessert – craving.
| Name: | Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Corn |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Snack |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 10 servings |
| Yield | 10 cups |
Ingredients
- 6 cups popped plain popcorn
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts
- 1 Tbsp canola oil
- 2 Tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup brown rice syrup
- 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
Instructions
1. Pop the Popcorn
Start by popping your popcorn. You can use an air popper, microwave, or stovetop method. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels, so you don’t bite into an unexpected crunch.
2. Prepare a Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will make it easier to remove the caramel corn later.
3. Make the Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, corn syrup, and salt over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Once it boils, let it cook without stirring for about 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it; watch closely.
4. Add Baking Soda and Peanut Butter
Remove the caramel sauce from the heat and quickly stir in the baking soda. It will bubble up, so be cautious. After that, add in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined, and you have a smooth, velvety caramel peanut butter sauce.
5. Combine Popcorn and Caramel
Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm caramel peanut butter sauce over the popcorn. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently toss the popcorn until it’s evenly coated with the caramel sauce. Be patient; it may take a minute or two to coat all the popcorn properly.
6. Spread on the Baking Sheet
Spread the caramel-coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to even it out. While it’s still warm, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt evenly over the top for that perfect sweet and salty balance.
7. Let It Cool
Allow the salted peanut butter caramel corn to cool and harden for about 15-20 minutes.
8. Break into Pieces
Once it’s completely cooled and the caramel has hardened, break the caramel corn into pieces. You can make it as small or as large as you like.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Corn to a serving bowl or store it in an airtight container. Enjoy the irresistible combination of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors!
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: 200-250 calories
- Total Fat: About 10-12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
- Cholesterol: Around 10-15 milligrams
- Sodium: 150-200 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: About 25-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: Around 15-20 grams
- Protein: 2-4 grams
