Popcorn Peanuts Caramel Mix (Printable)

Crunchy popcorn combined with roasted peanuts and rich caramel creates a delightful sweet and salty snack mix.

# What You Need:

→ Popcorn

01 - 10 cups freshly popped popcorn

→ Nuts

02 - 1 cup roasted salted peanuts

→ Caramel

03 - 1 cup packed light brown sugar
04 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
05 - 1/4 cup light corn syrup
06 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 250°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Place the popped popcorn and roasted peanuts in a large mixing bowl. Toss to combine evenly.
03 - In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
04 - Let the caramel boil for 4 to 5 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and immediately stir in baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam.
05 - Quickly pour the hot caramel over the popcorn and peanuts. Using two spatulas or wooden spoons, toss until the mixture is well-coated.
06 - Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
07 - Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
08 - Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Break into clusters before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Perfect balance of sweet caramel and salty crunch in every bite
  • Ready in just 35 minutes with simple pantry ingredients
  • Makes 8 cups—plenty for sharing at parties or game day gatherings
  • Stores well for up to a week, so you can make it ahead
  • Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like pretzels or chocolate
02 -
  • Use a large mixing bowl—bigger than you think you need—to make coating the popcorn easier without spillage
  • Don't skip the parchment paper; it prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless
  • Always measure your popcorn after popping to ensure the right caramel-to-popcorn ratio
  • Let the mix cool completely before breaking it apart for the best cluster formation
  • For gift-giving, package the cooled popcorn mix within 24 hours for optimal freshness
Go Back