This Dark Chocolate Caramel Popcorn is a decadent, homemade version of the famous Moose Munch. Featuring crunchy caramel-coated popcorn, nuts, and a generous drizzle of dark chocolate, this treat is perfect for snacking, gifting, or any celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect texture: Crunchy popcorn and nuts with a rich caramel coating.
- Indulgent flavor: Sweet caramel meets dark chocolate for a luxurious treat.
- Customizable: Choose your favorite nuts or skip them entirely for nut-free popcorn.
- Great for gifting: Package it in decorative bags or tins for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients
- 12 cups popped popcorn
- 1.5 cups nuts of choice (peanuts, pecans, cashews, etc.)
- 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- ¾ cup butter
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1.5 teaspoons shortening
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large roasting pan or two baking pans
- Heavy-bottom saucepan
- Wax paper
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
- Fork or spoon for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn and Nuts
Preheat the oven to 250°F. Spread the popped popcorn and nuts evenly in a large roasting pan or divide between two baking pans.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil (about 8 minutes). Continue boiling for 2 minutes without stirring.
Step 3: Add Baking Soda
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam up, so stir carefully. Let it cool slightly until it’s warm but still pourable.
Step 4: Coat the Popcorn
Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and nuts. Use a spatula to stir and coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the caramel-coated popcorn for 60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.
Step 6: Cool the Popcorn
Remove from the oven and transfer the popcorn to wax paper using a large non-stick spatula. Spread it out and let it cool completely. Avoid breaking it into chunks at this stage.
Step 7: Add the Chocolate Drizzle
Melt the dark chocolate chips with the shortening in the microwave using 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring between each interval, or use a double boiler. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the popcorn using a fork or spoon.
Step 8: Set and Serve
Allow the chocolate to set completely, about 3-4 hours. Once set, break the popcorn into pieces and enjoy.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve in a large bowl for gatherings or package in gift bags for holidays.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool place for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Avoid freezing as the texture of the caramel may change.
Variations
- White chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
- Salted caramel: Add a sprinkle of sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel version.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the caramel sauce for a unique twist.
- Nut-free: Omit the nuts and add pretzel pieces or dried fruit instead.
Helpful Notes
- Ensure the caramel sauce is warm and pourable but not too hot to avoid clumping.
- Stir gently while coating the popcorn to avoid breaking it into small pieces.
- Use shortening in the chocolate for a smoother drizzle that sets well.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: “Use fresh, high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and smooth texture.”
- Ree Drummond: “Line your workspace with wax paper for easy cleanup when working with sticky caramel.”
- Mary Berry: “Keep the popcorn in an even layer to ensure the caramel coats it evenly while baking.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use microwave popcorn?
A: Yes, but choose plain or lightly salted varieties to avoid overpowering the caramel.
Q: What if I don’t have shortening?
A: Substitute coconut oil or butter for the shortening in the chocolate drizzle.
Q: How do I prevent clumping?
A: Stir the popcorn well during baking and spread it out immediately after removing it from the oven.
Q: Can I make this without nuts?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the nuts or replace them with an alternative like pretzel pieces.
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A: Yes, but the overall flavor will be sweeter and less intense.
This Dark Chocolate Caramel Popcorn is the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion!
