Description
A fun, colorful popcorn treat coated in a glossy Kool-Aid candy shell that is sweet, fruity, crunchy, and perfect for parties, movie nights, or festive snacking.
Ingredients
- 10 cups popped popcorn (plain, air-popped or lightly salted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 packet Kool-Aid drink mix (about 0.13 oz, any pastel-colored flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl and remove any unpopped kernels.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, butter, and corn syrup. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture begins to boil.
- Once the mixture reaches a steady boil, stop stirring and let it cook for 4 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the Kool-Aid powder, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Mix until foamy.
- Immediately pour the candy mixture over the popcorn and gently stir until all kernels are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
- Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to keep the coating even.
- Remove from the oven and let the popcorn cool completely for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Break into pieces and serve.
Notes
- You can mix different Kool-Aid flavors for a variety of pastel shades.
- A pinch of salt can help balance the sweetness.
- For extra decoration, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled popcorn or add sprinkles.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Make sure the popcorn is fully cooled before storing so it stays crisp.
- If it softens, re-crisp it in a low oven for a few minutes.
- Plain or lightly salted microwave popcorn can be used, but avoid heavily buttered varieties.
- Honey or golden syrup may replace corn syrup, though the coating may be less glossy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 1/4 cups)
- Calories: 217
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
