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Kid-Approved Apple Cider Caramel Popcorn Bites: Easy 15-Min Recipe

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These quick and easy apple cider caramel popcorn bites come together in just 15 minutes with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for bake sales, parties, or a cozy snack, they feature a chewy caramel coating with a hint of apple that kids and adults love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups popped popcorn (about 1/3 cup unpopped kernels)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or almonds (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dried apple chips, crumbled (optional)
  • 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pop the popcorn: Pop 8 cups of popcorn using an air popper, stovetop method, or microwave. Remove any unpopped kernels and set aside in a large bowl.
  2. Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If adding nuts or dried apples, have them ready in a small bowl.
  3. Make the caramel: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar, apple cider, and honey. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Boil the caramel: Let the mixture boil for 2 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat. The bubbles should be large and lazy.
  5. Add the finishing touches: Quickly stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and baking soda. The mixture will foam and lighten in color.
  6. Combine with popcorn: Pour the hot caramel over the popcorn. Gently fold until every kernel is coated. If adding nuts or dried apples, fold them in now.
  7. Shape into bites: Let the mixture cool for about 2 minutes until safe to handle. Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray, then press small handfuls into compact balls about 2 inches in diameter. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Cool completely: Let the bites sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes until firm. If drizzling with white chocolate, wait until fully set, then melt chocolate in 15-second intervals in the microwave and drizzle with a fork.

Notes

Watch the caramel closely to avoid burning. Work quickly when shaping bites as the caramel sets fast. For best texture, make ahead and store overnight. Double the batch for events. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider caramel popcorn, popcorn bites, easy snack, bake sale recipe, kid-friendly, 15-minute recipe, fall treat

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/kid-approved-apple-cider-caramel-popcorn-bites-easy-15-min-recipe/