Name: Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1/3 cup light corn syrup; 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 7 cups popped popcorn; 1 cup pretzels ((mini twists work best)); 1 cup roasted and salted peanuts; 1 cup Reese’s Pieces; 1 cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Minis

If you’re looking for a snack that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors, look no further than this Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix. It’s the ultimate treat for movie nights, parties, or even just a cozy night in. The combination of crunchy popcorn, pretzels, and candies tossed in a buttery caramel coating makes this mix utterly irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up and can be customized to suit your taste. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

The Upside of Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix

This Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix is not just a treat for your taste buds; it also brings a delightful crunch and a mix of textures that keep you coming back for more. The buttery caramel coating envelops each piece, ensuring that every handful is a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re snacking during a movie marathon or packing it up as a gift, this mix is sure to impress.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this delightful snack mix, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
7 cups popped popcorn
1 cup pretzels (mini twists work best)
1 cup roasted and salted peanuts
1 cup Reese’s Pieces
1 cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Minis

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that signature flavor that makes this Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix such a hit.

What’s in the Gear List

To make your popcorn mix, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

Large pot – for popping the popcorn.
Large mixing bowl – to combine all the ingredients.
Baking sheet – for spreading the popcorn mix to cool.
Spatula – for mixing and spreading ingredients evenly.
Medium saucepan – for making the caramel coating.

With these tools on hand, you’ll be well-equipped to create your delicious Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix.

Method: Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix

Step 1: Pop the Popcorn

Begin by popping the popcorn. You can either use an air popper or stovetop method. If using the stovetop, heat a large pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add popcorn kernels, cover, and shake the pot until popping slows down. Once popped, set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, light corn syrup, brown sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 2 minutes without stirring.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up, so be careful! Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn in the large mixing bowl. Quickly add the pretzels, peanuts, Reese’s Pieces, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Minis. Using a spatula, gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are coated in caramel.

Step 5: Bake the Mixture

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the popcorn mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even coating.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the mix cool completely. Once cooled, break it into pieces and serve or store in an airtight container.

What to Use Instead

If you’re looking to modify your Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix, consider these alternatives:

For a vegan option, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Use agave syrup instead of light corn syrup for a different sweetener.
For nut allergies, swap out peanuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Try adding different candies like M&Ms or chocolate chips instead of Reese’s products.

These swaps can help cater the mix to different dietary needs and preferences.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Be sure to use fresh popcorn for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t skip on stirring the caramel sauce during cooking; it ensures even melting and prevents burning.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, bake the mix for an additional 10 minutes.
Allow the mix to cool completely before storing; this will help it maintain its crunch.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

The Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix can be frozen for later enjoyment. Simply place the cooled mix in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer. When ready to eat, let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving. It’s a convenient way to have a delicious snack ready at a moment’s notice!

FAQ

Can I make this snack mix ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix a few days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

How long does the popcorn mix last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the mix can last for up to two weeks, though it’s usually gone much sooner!

Can I use different candies?

Yes! Feel free to customize your Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix with your favorite candies or snacks. M&Ms, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits can be great additions.

Is this snack mix gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free pretzels, this Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix can easily be made gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.

The Takeaway

This Sweet and Salty Popcorn Snack Mix is more than just a snack; it’s an experience that brings joy with every crunchy bite. The blend of sweet caramel, salty peanuts, and the delightful crunch of pretzels makes it a versatile treat suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it while watching your favorite movie or packaging it up as a thoughtful gift, this mix will surely be a crowd-pleaser. Try it out, and you’ll find yourself reaching for more—after all, who can resist that perfect blend of flavors? Happy snacking!