Buttery caramel, apples, and popcorn unite in chewy, sweet bars ideal for dessert or a fun snack.
# What you'll need:
→ Popcorn & Fruit
01 - 8 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/3 cup kernels, air-popped or lightly salted)
02 - 1 cup dried apple rings, chopped
→ Caramel
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
04 - 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
05 - 1/4 cup light corn syrup
06 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
07 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
→ Optional Topping
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
09 - 1/2 cup white or dark chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)
# Method:
01 - Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the surface.
02 - In a large bowl, mix together the popped popcorn and chopped dried apple rings. Set aside.
03 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the light brown sugar, corn syrup, and fine sea salt. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to boil for 2 minutes without stirring.
04 - Remove the saucepan from heat and incorporate the vanilla extract and, if desired, ground cinnamon.
05 - Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popcorn and apple mixture. Use a spatula to gently toss until all pieces are thoroughly coated.
06 - Promptly press the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a greased spatula or piece of parchment.
07 - If desired, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the bars.
08 - Allow the pan to cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour until mixture is fully set.
09 - Lift the bars out using the parchment liner and slice evenly into 12 portions.
