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–+ servings
Homemade Chicago Popcorn

Homemade Chicago Popcorn: Sweet and Cheesy Snack Bliss

Experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory with Homemade Chicago Popcorn, a delightful snack that's quick and easy to make.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Caramel Layer
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Provides richness; substitute with ghee for dairy-free.
  • 1 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar Can use coconut sugar for a less refined option.
  • 1 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt Optional but recommended.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Opt for pure extract for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Important for light, airy texture.
For the Popcorn Base
  • ½ cup Plain Popped Popcorn About 15 cups of popped popcorn can be prepared.
For the Cheesy Layer
  • ½ cup Cheddar Cheese Powder Substitute with finely grated parmesan if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Mustard Powder Omit if not available.
  • ¼ cup Melted Butter or Ghee Skim foam for best texture.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone mats
  • Grocery bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Chicago Popcorn
  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, and fine sea salt. Stir continuously until boiling, then boil for 4 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and carefully stir in vanilla extract and baking soda.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine your popped popcorn. Drizzle the warm caramel over the popcorn and gently fold to coat. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
  4. Bake the caramel-coated popcorn for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes until golden and crunchy.
  5. Prepare the cheddar cheese popcorn by adding popped popcorn to a grocery bag, drizzling melted butter or ghee over, and sprinkling with cheddar cheese powder and mustard powder. Seal and shake well.
  6. Combine the cooled caramel popcorn and cheddar cheese popcorn in a large bowl. Toss gently for an even distribution.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 10-14 days. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

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