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Patriotic Popcorn Mix

This popcorn mix combines freshly popped popcorn with a colorful array of candies and cheese crackers, creating a crunchy, vibrant snack. The ingredients are mixed together with a sticky sweet coating that binds the toppings, resulting in an evenly coated, visually appealing treat with varied textures. Its final appearance is bright, colorful, and inviting, perfect for festive occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 10 cups popped popcorn preferably air-popped
  • 1/2 cup butter unsalted, cut into pieces
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup for sticky coating
  • 1 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness and structure
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract vanilla extract
  • 1 cup assorted candies brightly colored candy pieces mini M&Ms or similar
  • 1 cup cheese crackers Cheddar cheese crackers such as Cheez-Its

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Popping kettle or microwave
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheet or large serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Pop the popcorn using an air popper or microwave method until fully popped, then transfer to a large mixing bowl. Ensure the popcorn is roughly uniform in size for even coating.
  2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, listening for a gentle bubbling sound. Once melted, add the corn syrup and sugar, stirring constantly with a spatula.
    10 cups popped popcorn
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly, continue cooking until it thickens slightly and turns a light amber color, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
    10 cups popped popcorn
  4. Pour the hot syrup evenly over the popcorn in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold and coat all the popcorn thoroughly, watching for a shiny, sticky surface to develop.
  5. Add the colorful candies and cheese crackers to the coated popcorn. Gently toss to distribute all toppings evenly, ensuring they stick to the sticky surface.
    10 cups popped popcorn
  6. Transfer the mixture either onto a baking sheet to cool and set or serve directly in a large bowl. Allow to sit for about 10 minutes until the coating firms up and the mix becomes crisp and colorful.