Caramel Apple Popcorn Clusters

 

Caramel Apple Popcorn Clusters

Ingredients

• 8 c. popped popcorn

• 4 c. freeze dried apple slices

• 1 c. unsalted almonds roughly chopped

• 2 c. apple juice

• 2 c. packed light brown sugar

• 1/4 c. light corn syrup

• 12 T. unsalted butter cut into pieces

• 1 tsp. salt

Instructions

1. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Divide the popcorn between the 2 baking sheets. Scatter the apple slices and chopped almonds on top of the popcorn.

3. Bring the apple juice, brown sugar and corn syrup to a boil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook without stirring until the mixture reaches 280 degrees on a candy thermometer, about 30 minutes. Stir the butter pieces into the caramel until melted and thoroughly combined. Add the salt and cook 1 minute more. Remove from the heat. Pour the hot caramel over the popcorn mixture and carefully toss with 2 rubber spatulas. Let cool slightly then separate the mixture into clusters while still warm. Let cool completely.