Christmas Crack

Caramel Popcorn

Fair warning: this popcorn is dangerously addicting. I mean eat-the-whole-bowl-without-realizing-it addicting. You know a recipe is truly good when friends and family start begging you to make another batch, and when people you haven't seen in months casually ask if "Christmas Crack" might be happening again this year.

Sweet, nostalgic, and dangerously addictive. Homemade Caramel Popcorn.

If you're looking for a fun homemade gift that will leave folks asking for the recipe (and hoping you'll make it again), this caramel popcorn is it. Sweet, crunchy, and completely irresistible, it's become one of those treats everyone remembers long after the holidays are over.

This recipe was handed down to me from my mom, who first started making it back in the 1970's. Every Christmas season, for as long as I can remember, she would grant our holiday wish and make a huge batch of this sweet addiction. The smell of caramel filling the kitchen, popcorn spread across every surface, and little hands sneaking tastes when she wasn't looking, it's a tradition woven into some of my favorite memories.

Today, I still make it the same way, with the same simple ingredients and the same intention: to share something made with love. Whether you're packaging it up for neighbors, gifting it to friends, or keeping a bowl on the counter for your family to enjoy, this is one of those recipes that turns ordinary moments into something special.

So, grab a bowl, or maybe two, and let's get started.

Ingredients

8 qt. popped corn

2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup light Karo

1 tsp. salt

1 cup margarine

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. vanilla

Directions

1. Boil the sugar, Karo, salt, and margarine for 5 minutes.

2. Remove from stove and add baking soda and vanilla.

3. Pour over popped popcorn and mix well.

4. Pour into sheet pans and bake at 250° for 1 hour; stirring every 15 minutes.

5. Remove from oven, store in airtight containers.

Homestead Tip:

• We love to pop our popcorn over the stove for that old fashioned feel.

• Pour popcorn into little gift bags, decorate with tags or Christmas greenery for a festive feel.

• Popcorn stores well in an airtight container but it won't last...there's a reason why we call it Christmas Crack. Once you take your first bite, you'll understand.