Save to Pinterest If you are craving a crunchy sweet snack packed with tons of flavor and just a hint of nostalgia these peanut butter caramel popcorn twists deliver every time The simple combination of airy corn twists a lush homemade caramel and creamy peanut butter brings big theater popcorn energy but is ridiculously easy to make at home They vanish fast at every family movie night and once you see how quick they come together you will find yourself making batch after batch
I started making this on chilly weekends when the kids had friends over and now even grown ups ask for it at every gathering It is that addictive salty sweet flavor combo that gets rave reviews each time
Ingredients
- Puffed corn twists: look for plain unsalted twists with a short ingredient list crunchy yet melt in your mouth
- Creamy peanut butter: smooth variety melts best aim for one with only peanuts and a bit of salt
- Unsalted butter: high quality butter adds rich flavor to the caramel and helps it set just right
- Brown sugar: dark or light brown both work but dark gives a richer color and depth
- Light corn syrup: helps create glossy caramel that will coat every piece evenly
- Pure vanilla extract: real vanilla gives the caramel a cozy aroma and flavor boost
- Baking soda: creates tiny bubbles that help the caramel stick and keeps the coating crisp
- Fine sea salt: enhances all the sweet and nutty notes opt for a flaky salt to sprinkle at the end if you love salty sweet balance
Instructions
- Prep the Pan:
- Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set out a big bowl for the twists The parchment keeps caramel from sticking and makes clean up a breeze
- Make the Caramel Sauce:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat Once melted stir in brown sugar corn syrup and salt Stir constantly until the mixture is fully combined and just begins to bubble then let it simmer without stirring for exactly five minutes Watch closely so it does not burn
- Add the Peanut Butter:
- Remove the pan from heat and whisk in creamy peanut butter until completely smooth Immediately stir in vanilla then baking soda The caramel will bubble up and lighten in color
- Coat the Twists:
- Quickly pour the hot peanut butter caramel over the corn twists in your large bowl Use a heatproof spatula to gently toss and coat all the pieces Move swiftly before the caramel begins to set
- Bake and Crisp:
- Spread the coated twists onto your lined baking sheet in an even layer Place them in a preheated oven and bake at three hundred degrees Fahrenheit for fifteen to twenty minutes stirring once halfway through This step crisps the coating for perfect crunch
- Cool and Break Apart:
- Remove from oven and let the twists cool completely on the pan Once cool break apart any clusters Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness
Save to Pinterest The best part for me is always licking the spatula after pouring out the caramel Years ago my youngest tried to sneak a twist straight off the hot pan and now it is a running joke about who gets to claim the first official taste every time
Storage Tips
Cool twists fully before sealing in a container so they retain crispness Room temperature storage works best Avoid refrigerating as it can make the coating sticky and chewy For longer keeping freeze in a zipper top bag removing as much air as possible then let thaw on the counter uncovered for best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you only have chunky peanut butter you can use it but the coating will be a bit thicker Almond or sunflower seed butter is another excellent choice for peanut allergies For added depth swap a little maple syrup for some of the corn syrup or use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar A pinch of cinnamon in the caramel brings warmth for fall
Serving Suggestions
This popcorn twist recipe was born for movie marathons Spread them on a platter for game day snack boards and watch them disappear In sundae bowls drop a handful over vanilla ice cream for an over the top treat My neighbor likes to use leftovers as a crunchy topping for chocolate pudding
Cultural and Historical Context
Sweet caramel corn snacks have been popular at American fairs and theaters for more than a century but this version dials up the peanut butter love With roots in both classic Cracker Jack and Midwestern church bake sales you will find variations of this crunchy treat at school carnivals and block parties across the Midwest It is budget friendly and always draws a crowd
Save to Pinterest Every batch is gone in a flash so make extra for gifting Movie night just got a major upgrade thanks to these addictive peanut butter caramel twists
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of popcorn works best?
Freshly popped plain popcorn works best. Avoid buttered varieties to preserve the peanut and caramel flavors.
- → Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Creamy peanut butter melts more uniformly, but crunchy adds texture if preferred.
- → How do I prevent caramel from burning?
Heat caramel on low, stirring consistently. Remove from heat once smooth and golden to avoid burning.
- → Is this treat suitable for kids?
Yes, but monitor for peanut allergies. Kids often enjoy helping with mixing and forming the twists.
- → Can twists be stored for later?
Store cooled popcorn twists in airtight containers for up to three days to retain freshness and crunch.