Get ready to indulge in the perfect nostalgic treat with this irresistible homemade Cracker Jack recipe! Featuring fluffy popped popcorn and crunchy roasted peanuts, all coated in a rich, buttery caramel sauce made from brown sugar, light corn syrup, and a hint of vanilla, this snack brings sweet and salty together in every bite. Baked to golden perfection for an irresistible crisp, this Cracker Jack is easy to make and perfect for movie nights, game days, or gifting. With just 15 minutes of prep and a deep caramel flavor that rivals the classic favorite, this recipe is your ticket to reliving childhood memories—right from your kitchen!
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Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Place the popped popcorn and roasted peanuts in a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, light corn syrup, and salt until fully combined.
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5 minutes without stirring.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The caramel will foam up slightly—this is normal.
Immediately pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn and peanuts. Use a spatula to gently toss and coat everything evenly.
Spread the coated popcorn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and crispness.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Cracker Jack cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Enjoy your homemade treat!
Serving size | (552.5g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 2728.0 |
Total Fat 184.1g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 70.1g | 0% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 22.3g | |
Cholesterol 248mg | 0% |
Sodium 1889.4mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 263.7g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 23.7g | 0% |
Total Sugars 191.7g | |
Protein 50.3g | 0% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 236.9mg | 0% |
Iron 5.5mg | 0% |
Potassium 1497.2mg | 0% |
Source of Calories