Chocolate Caramel Popcorn with Peanuts and Toffee Bits

"Camp Rock 2" was nauseating.

I tried to like it, I really gave it an honest effort. But my efforts were for naught when Ethan got home and started laughing at Demi Lovato and how she "can't back down". She is just so serious. And then I just had to laugh too. But we were both careful to hide our laughing. Jack LOVED the show. He even put a little "Camp Rock 2" poster on his bulletin board in his room. Spoiler Alert: Apparently they did back down. They don't win. Sorry.




For the big premier of "Camp Rock 2", I made Jack this popcorn. I thought he would appreciate a special treat for the show he had been counting down to for two weeks. And he definitely appreciated it. He sat on the floor, mesmerized by the movie and the popcorn was in a continuous cycle of hand to mouth. But how could you blame him. Homemade caramel popcorn mixed with peanuts and toffee bits and then drizzled with chocolate. Salty, sweet and chocolate and happy.



1 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/2 tsp salt
4 Tbsp butter
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 cup popcorn, popped
1/3 cup chopped peanuts
1/3 cup toffee bits
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

In a large microwave-safe bowl (preferably glass), combine the sugar, corn syrup, salt, butter, and vanilla. Microwave on high for 1 minute. Stir and then microwave for 2 more minutes. Add the baking soda and stir well (mixture will foam). Pour the popcorn, peanuts and toffee bits into a large brown paper bag. Pour the caramel into the bag and stir to coat. Turn the bag under to close and microwave on high for 1 minute.

Spread the caramel corn mixture on a baking sheet lined with waxed paper to cool.

While the popcorn is cooling, add the chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 30 second intervals, stirring in between intervals, until melted, about 2 minutes. With a small spoon, drizzle melted chocolate onto the popcorn. Let it set for about 2 hours. Put it in the fridge to speed up the setting process.

Once set, break apart popcorn into bite-sized pieces.

Rookie's Notes: When drizzling, I found that moving the spoon around in fast circles over the popcorn made for good drizzling. If you are going to do that, wear an apron. It will be a bit messy.

To pop your own popcorn on the stove, click here for a recipe.


HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT THIS RECIPE OR ANYTHING ELSE? Click here.