Red Candy-Coated Popcorn (Printer-Friendly)
Crunchy popcorn coated with a bright red candy shell ideal for seasonal and festive treats.
# List of Ingredients:
→ Popcorn
01 -
½ cup yellow popcorn kernels
→ Candy Coating
02 -
1 cup granulated sugar
03 -
¼ cup light corn syrup
04 -
¼ cup unsalted butter
05 -
2 tablespoons water
06 -
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 -
¼ teaspoon salt
08 -
¼ teaspoon red gel food coloring, adjust to desired intensity
# Preparation Steps:
01 -
Pop ½ cup of popcorn kernels using an air-popper or stovetop method until you have approximately 10 cups of fluffy popcorn. Remove any unpopped kernels and spread the popcorn evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
02 -
In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, unsalted butter, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
03 -
Remove from heat briefly, then stir in vanilla extract and red gel food coloring until the color is evenly distributed.
04 -
Return the saucepan to heat without stirring. Bring the mixture to a boil and continue cooking until the temperature reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
05 -
Immediately pour the hot syrup evenly over the prepared popcorn. Use a silicone spatula to toss and coat the popcorn thoroughly before the syrup sets.
06 -
Bake the coated popcorn in a preheated oven at 250°F for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent sticking.
07 -
Remove the popcorn from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet. Break apart any clusters before serving.
# Additional Suggestions:
01 -
Achieving the hard-ball stage (250°F) on the candy thermometer is essential for a crisp coating. Avoid stirring once boiling to prevent graininess.
02 -
Baking the coated popcorn helps drive out moisture for a crunchy texture and prevents clumping.