How To Make Bacon Caramel Popcorn

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option with a similar flavor.

granulated sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index.

corn syrup

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: maple syrup

Honey provides a natural sweetness.

vanilla extract

🥗Healthier: vanilla bean

💰Cheaper: vanilla flavoring

Vanilla flavoring is less expensive but has a similar taste.

Start by making the caramel sauce with sugar, water, maple syrup, salt, and butter, simmering slowly.

In a separate pot, heat up the rendered bacon fat until melted.

Add popcorn kernels to the pot with bacon fat and cover with a clear lid.

Shake the pot while the popcorn pops to prevent burning, and turn down the heat once it starts popping vigorously.

Turn off the burner but let the popcorn continue to pop until no noise is heard.

Prepare a large metal or glass bowl by spraying it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Once the caramel reaches a nice amber color, add baking soda and cayenne pepper, then turn off the heat.

Add rendered bacon pieces and pecans to the caramel sauce, then pour it over the popcorn in the bowl, scraping out every last bit of caramel.

Using sprayed spatulas, mix the popcorn and caramel quickly to spread it out before it hardens.

Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow it to cool for a few minutes before eating.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens