Description
Sweet kernels of popcorn dance with rainbow candied coating, creating a whimsical snack that delights taste buds. Colorful, crunchy, and irresistibly playful, this treat brings pure joy to movie nights and celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Popcorn Base:
- 12 cups popcorn kernels (yields about 10 cups popped)
Candy Coating:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Food Coloring:
- Gel food coloring in multiple colors
Instructions
- Prepare freshly popped corn, meticulously removing any unpopped kernels, and transfer to a spacious mixing vessel.
- Create a sweet foundation by merging sugar, water, corn syrup, and salt in a medium saucepan. Apply medium heat, continuously stirring until the mixture transforms into a bubbling liquid and sugar completely dissolves.
- Segment the warm syrup into distinct containers, introducing vibrant gel food colorings to each portion, generating a spectrum of vivid hues.
- Execute color coating methodically: drizzle a single color syrup over a portion of popcorn, swiftly incorporating the liquid to ensure comprehensive coverage before crystallization occurs.
- Distribute each color-infused batch onto silicone mats or parchment-lined baking sheets, allowing natural air circulation to solidify the glossy coating at room temperature.
- After complete cooling and thorough hardening, gently fragment the candied popcorn into delectable, bite-sized morsels ready for immediate enjoyment or storage.
Notes
- Choose fresh, high-quality kernels for the best popping results and minimal unpopped kernels.
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even sugar syrup caramelization.
- Select gel food coloring for vibrant, intense colors that won’t water down the syrup consistency.
- Work quickly when coating popcorn to prevent syrup from hardening before complete coverage.
- Wear disposable gloves to keep hands clean and avoid staining when mixing colored syrups.
- Store candied popcorn in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent moisture absorption.
- Try natural food colorings like beet juice or matcha for healthier color alternatives.
- Add sprinkles or edible glitter for extra festive and kid-friendly presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10
- Calories: 172
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg