Name: Chocolate Popcorn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 190 grams popped popcorn ((about 24 cups)); 1 cup brown sugar ((107 grams)); 1 cup unsalted butter ((113 grams, slightly melted, equivalent to 1 stick)); 1 cup light corn syrup ((78 grams)); 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder ((21 grams)); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract ((4 grams)); Sea salt ((optional, to taste))

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Imagine a delightful combination of fluffy popcorn and rich chocolate, creating a snack that’s not only irresistible but also perfect for movie nights, parties, or simply indulging yourself. This Chocolate Popcorn recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires just a handful of pantry staples. With its sweet, crunchy, and slightly salty flavor profile, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a fun treat, this Chocolate Popcorn is versatile, delicious, and always a hit!

Why Cooks Rave About It

Chocolate popcorn is a beloved treat that combines the lightness of popcorn with the rich decadence of chocolate. It’s a perfect blend that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. Cooks rave about this recipe because it’s:

– Quick and easy to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.
– Customizable with various toppings and flavors.
– A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
– A delightful alternative to traditional snacks like chips and pretzels.
– Great for sharing at parties, movie nights, or as a gift.

What Goes Into Chocolate Popcorn

To create this delightful Chocolate Popcorn, you will need the following ingredients:

190 grams popped popcorn (about 24 cups)
1 cup brown sugar (107 grams)
1 cup unsalted butter (113 grams, slightly melted, equivalent to 1 stick)
1 cup light corn syrup (78 grams)
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (21 grams)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
Sea salt (optional, to taste)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes this Chocolate Popcorn so delightful.

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into the recipe, gather the following equipment:

Large mixing bowl – for combining the popcorn and chocolate mixture.
Medium saucepan – for preparing the chocolate coating.
Spatula – for stirring and mixing.
Baking sheet – lined with parchment paper for cooling.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.

Having all your equipment ready will make the process seamless and enjoyable!

Method: Chocolate Popcorn

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process to whip up your own batch of Chocolate Popcorn.

Step 1: Pop the Popcorn

Start by popping your popcorn. You can use an air popper or the stovetop method. Regardless of the method, you’ll want about 190 grams of popped popcorn, which translates to approximately 24 cups. Once popped, place the popcorn in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine the slightly melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, light corn syrup, unsweetened cocoa powder, and pure vanilla extract. Stir over medium heat until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for about 4-5 minutes without stirring, which will help to create that delicious caramelized flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Popcorn

Once the chocolate mixture has thickened slightly, remove it from heat. Carefully pour the hot chocolate mixture over the popped popcorn in the large mixing bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold the popcorn and chocolate together until all the popcorn is coated evenly. If desired, sprinkle in some sea salt for that sweet-and-salty combo.

Step 4: Bake the Popcorn

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the coated popcorn evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even coating and to prevent burning. This step helps to set the chocolate coating and adds a delightful crunch.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

After baking, remove the popcorn from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, break it into clusters and store it in an airtight container. Your homemade Chocolate Popcorn is now ready to be enjoyed!

Customize for Your Needs

One of the best parts about making Chocolate Popcorn is how easy it is to customize. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add peppermint extract for a festive twist.
Mix in nuts, like almonds or pecans, for added crunch.
Incorporate mini marshmallows for a s’mores-inspired treat.
Drizzle with white chocolate for a beautiful contrast.
Use different flavored popcorns as a base, like cheddar or caramel.

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Problems & Prevention

While making Chocolate Popcorn is straightforward, there are a few common issues that can arise. Here’s how to prevent them:

Burning the chocolate mixture: Keep an eye on the saucepan and stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
Popcorn not getting enough coating: Make sure to evenly fold the popcorn with the chocolate mixture to ensure every piece is covered.
Popcorn becoming soggy: Baking it in the oven helps to dry it out and create that crunchy texture.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to making perfect Chocolate Popcorn every time!

Shelf Life & Storage

To keep your Chocolate Popcorn fresh, follow these storage tips:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
It will last for about 1 week, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Avoid refrigerating, as this can make the popcorn chewy.

With proper storage, you can enjoy this delicious treat for days!

Let’s Eat

Now that you know how to make this scrumptious Chocolate Popcorn, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get popping! Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it solo, this treat is bound to bring joy to your snack time. Enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness and don’t forget to experiment with your toppings and flavors. Happy snacking!

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