Microwave Caramel Corn

Ingredients:

• Microwave Caramel Corn 1 (3.5 ounces) bag microwave popcorn or 2 quarts plain popped popcorn
• 1/3 cup butter
• 2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup light or dark corn syrup, or Lyle's Golden Syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• peanuts, optional (or you can use a different type of nut if you prefer)

Prepare microwave popcorn as directed on bag.Remove any unpopped kernels. (This step is really important, because a broken tooth is not a good gift.)

In 2 quart microwave-safe bowl, microwave butter on high until melted, about 1& 1/2 minutes.Stir in sugar and corn syrup, and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes. Stir in vanilla and baking soda until well blended. Stir in popcorn, mixing well. (It may be a bit tricky to mix the popcorn in at first, but the more you stir, the easier it gets. I like to add half, stir it to coat, than add the rest.) If you are using nuts, add them here too. Microwave on high for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes to coat popcorn evenly.***Watch it carefully--if you have a very powerful microwave, watch closely so it doesn't start to burn, and you may want to reduce the 2 minute intervals to 1 or 1 1/2 minutes.Transfer caramel corn to tray lined with parchment paper. Cool and break popcorn apart.

Store in airtight container.

Yield: 2 quarts

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Ready in: 18 minutes