Homemade Cracker Jack is a nostalgic and delicious treat that combines sweet caramel-coated popcorn with crunchy peanuts. Perfect for snacking or as a fun homemade gift, this recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Homemade Cracker Jack, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 (3.29 oz) packages natural popcorn, popped
- ⅔ cup Spanish peanuts
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- 1 cup butter
- ½ cup dark corn syrup
- 2 tablespoon molasses
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn
- Pop the Popcorn:
- Pop the popcorn according to the package instructions. Once popped, remove any unpopped kernels.
- Mix with Peanuts:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the popped popcorn and Spanish peanuts. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
- Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Brown Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Molasses:
- Stir in the brown sugar, dark corn syrup, and molasses. Continue stirring until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil the Mixture:
- Once the mixture is boiling, stop stirring and allow it to boil for 4-5 minutes without stirring, until it reaches a deep amber color.
- Add Salt and Baking Soda:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the salt and baking soda. The mixture will foam up slightly.
Step 3: Coat the Popcorn
- Pour Caramel over Popcorn:
- Immediately pour the hot caramel sauce over the popcorn and peanuts. Use a large spatula to gently toss and coat the popcorn and peanuts evenly with the caramel sauce.
Step 4: Bake the Cracker Jack
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Spread on Baking Sheets:
- Spread the coated popcorn and peanuts in an even layer on two large baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Cool the Cracker Jack:
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the Cracker Jack cool completely on the baking sheets.
- Break into Pieces:
- Once cooled, break the Cracker Jack into pieces and store in an airtight container.
- Serve:
- Enjoy your Homemade Cracker Jack as a sweet and crunchy snack!
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Stirring: Make sure to stir the caramel sauce continuously until it reaches a boil to prevent burning.
- Baking: Stirring the Cracker Jack every 15 minutes during baking helps to ensure even coating and prevents sticking.
Variations:
- Chocolate Drizzle:
- After the Cracker Jack has cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a chocolatey twist.
- Spicy Cracker Jack:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel sauce for a spicy kick.
- Nut Mix:
- Replace the Spanish peanuts with a mix of your favorite nuts such as almonds, cashews, or pecans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use light corn syrup instead of dark corn syrup?
Yes, you can use light corn syrup, but dark corn syrup adds a deeper, richer flavor to the caramel.
2. How do I store Homemade Cracker Jack?
Store the Cracker Jack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Cracker Jack a day or two ahead of time and store it in an airtight container until ready to serve.
4. Can I use microwave popcorn?
Yes, you can use microwave popcorn. Just make sure to use a natural or lightly salted variety and remove any unpopped kernels.
5. Can I add other mix-ins to the Cracker Jack?
Yes, you can add other mix-ins such as dried fruit, pretzels, or candy pieces for added flavor and texture.
Homemade Cracker Jack is a delicious and nostalgic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet caramel coating and crunchy peanuts, this snack is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re making it for a party, as a gift, or just for fun, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Homemade Cracker Jack recipe a try and enjoy a classic and crunchy treat. Happy snacking!
