Bacon Caramel Corn is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors. This snack features freshly popped popcorn coated in a rich, buttery caramel sauce and mixed with HORMEL® BLACK LABEL® Original Thick Cut Bacon. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. Ideal for any occasion, Bacon Caramel Corn is a unique treat that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
| 6 | slices of HORMEL® BLACK LABEL® Original Thick Cut Bacon |
| Nonstick cooking spray | |
| ½ | cup popcorn kernels |
| 1½ | teaspoons baking soda |
| ¾ | teaspoon cayenne pepper |
| 3 | cups sugar |
| 3 | tablespoons unsalted butter |
| 2 | teaspoons sea salt |
Directions
Heat oven to 400°F.
Bake bacon strips until crispy. Finely chop bacon.
Lightly coat two large rubber spatulas and large mixing bowl with nonstick cooking spray.
In large saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add popcorn kernels; cover. Jostle saucepan constantly, until kernels have popped, about 4 minutes.
Transfer popped popcorn to large prepared bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels.
In small bowl, whisk baking soda and cayenne pepper. In medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, salt, and water.
Cook over high heat 10 minutes, or until mixture becomes caramel color. Remove from heat and whisk in baking soda mixture. Fold in finely chopped bacon.
Pour caramel over popcorn and toss until popcorn is evenly coated.
Pour popcorn onto large baking pan. Separate into small pieces while warm.
Cool to room temperature.