Red Candy-Coated Popcorn (Ready-to-Print Version)
Crunchy popcorn coated with vibrant red candy, perfect for festive snack moments and celebrations.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Popcorn
01 -
½ cup yellow popcorn kernels
→ Candy Coating
02 -
1 cup granulated sugar
03 -
¼ cup light corn syrup
04 -
¼ cup unsalted butter
05 -
2 tablespoons water
06 -
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 -
¼ teaspoon salt
08 -
¼ teaspoon red gel food coloring, adjust to desired intensity
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 -
Pop ½ cup of yellow popcorn kernels using an air popper or stovetop method until you obtain about 10 cups of fully popped popcorn. Remove any unpopped kernels and spread the popcorn evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
02 -
In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, unsalted butter, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
03 -
Remove the pan from heat momentarily, then stir in pure vanilla extract and red gel food coloring starting with ¼ teaspoon. Mix thoroughly to achieve an even red color.
04 -
Return the saucepan to heat without stirring. Increase to medium-high and boil the mixture until it reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer, approximately 4–5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning or undercooking.
05 -
Immediately pour the hot candy syrup evenly over the prepared popcorn. Using a silicone spatula, gently toss to coat all pieces quickly before the syrup sets.
06 -
Bake the coated popcorn in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent clumping and promote even coating.
07 -
Remove from the oven and allow the popcorn to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once set, separate any clusters and serve.
# Handy Tips:
01 -
Ensure the candy syrup reaches the hard-ball stage (250°F) to create a crisp coating; undercooking causes stickiness, while overcooking leads to bitterness.
02 -
Bake and stir the coated popcorn regularly to produce a crunchy texture and prevent sticky clumps.