Sunday, September 19, 2010

Root Beer Crunch

Here's a fun recipe from the book Popcorn Cookery: 200 new ways to enjoy popcorn.


Yes, it's true that I don't like popcorn but this is actually pretty good. It's similar to caramel corn but with a richer flavor. I suppose you could switch in different sodas and nuts to vary the taste. Let me know if you do that. Would love to hear your combinations.






ROOT BEER CRUNCH




10 cups fresh popped popcorn (the original recipe called for 8 but I think it makes enough "sauce" to coat more than that - use your judgement)


1 cup salted pecans


1 (12 oz) bottle root beer


1 cup sugar


1/2 cup light corn syrup


1/2 cup softened butter (1 stick)


1/4 tsp salt




Preheat oven to 250


Combine popcorn and pecans in a deep pan (buttered or coated with cooking spray)


Keep popcorn warm in the oven


Butter (or spray) a large cookie sheet, set aside


Pour root beer slowly into a large saucepan


Add sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt


Stir gently, but well


Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar melts


Cook, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches 250 (use a digital thermometer to keep track of the temp. If it does not get hot enough, it will not work. Trust me. I failed at this my 1st time because of that)


Remove popcorn and pecans from oven


Pour syrup mixture over popcorn and pecans (remember it is HOT so be very careful)


Mix well until all popcorn is coated


Spread popcorn on buttered cookie sheet


Cool Completely


Break into pieces to serve

2 comments:

Lisa said...

This looks like great Fall comfort food. It must be good if you are not a fan of popcorn, but you like this. Can't wait to try it!

Sarah said...

Yum, thanks for the recipe. Now I'm going to have to make this for Lisa. :) I'm kidding...maybe she'll be the one to be so bold.