Homemade Cracker Jack Recipe

Name: Homemade Cracker Jack
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 ounces (about 5 cups) freshly popped popcorn, lightly salted; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/2 ounces salted Spanish peanuts; 3 ounces brown sugar; 1 1/2 ounces light corn syrup; 1 1/2 ounces unsalted butter, melted; 2 teaspoons molasses; 1 pinch kosher salt; 1 pinch fine sea salt (optional)

Servings: persons

1
Preheat oven to 250u00b0 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat mat.
2
In a large bowl, place the freshly popped popcorn. Set aside until ready to use.
3
Measure out the baking soda, vanilla extract, and Spanish peanuts separately and set each aside until ready to use.
4
In a small pot, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, molasses, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, over medium-high heat, and cook to 250u00b0 F (around 1 to 2 minutes after it begins to boil).
5
Remove from heat and immediately stir in the baking soda and vanilla until thoroughly combined. Pour over the popcorn and gently but quickly stir the mixture to evenly coat all the popcorn kernels. Add in the peanuts and gently stir to distribute evenly.
6
Pour the mixture out onto the prepared baking sheet. With the back of a spatula, quickly spread it out into a single layer. Bake for 1 hour, stirring mixture halfway through.
7
When done, remove from oven and stir the caramel corn once more. If using, sprinkle with the fine sea salt. Set on a cooling rack and allow it to cool. Once cool, enjoy right away or store in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days.

270

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 3/4 ounces (about 5 cups) freshly popped popcorn, lightly salted, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 1/2 ounces salted Spanish peanuts, and more.

Yes, Homemade Cracker Jack falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Homemade Cracker Jack

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions