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Crispy Patriotic Popcorn Mix Recipe with Red and Blue M&Ms

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A festive, crispy caramel-coated popcorn mix with red and blue M&Ms that stays crunchy and colorful, perfect for patriotic celebrations and summer parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (100g) popcorn kernels, popped fresh or about 12 cups pre-popped popcorn (lightly salted, plain)
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (85g) honey or light corn syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (about 170g) red and blue M&Ms

Instructions

  1. Pop about 1/2 cup (100g) popcorn kernels using your preferred method. Transfer the popped popcorn to a large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels. You should have around 12 cups of popcorn. Set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar, 1/4 cup (85g) honey or light corn syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Let it boil for about 4-5 minutes without stirring, until the caramel reaches a rich amber color.
  3. Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. The mixture will bubble up. Stir until smooth.
  4. Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popcorn. Use a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula to gently fold the popcorn, coating it evenly but carefully so you don’t crush the kernels.
  5. Transfer the coated popcorn onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it out into an even layer. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to keep the popcorn evenly coated and crisp up the caramel.
  6. Remove the popcorn from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, sprinkle 1 cup (about 170g) red and blue M&Ms over the popcorn and gently toss to distribute.
  7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Notes

Add M&Ms after baking and cooling to prevent melting. Stir popcorn every 15 minutes during baking to ensure even coating and crispiness. Use parchment or silicone mats to prevent sticking. For vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free M&Ms or candy-coated chocolates. Honey or maple syrup can replace corn syrup but may alter texture slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: popcorn, caramel popcorn, patriotic snack, red and blue M&Ms, summer party snack, Independence Day snack, Memorial Day snack, crispy popcorn mix

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/crispy-patriotic-popcorn-mix-recipe-with-red-and-blue-m-and-ms-easy-steps/