Sweet and Salty Griddle Caramel Popcorn Crunch

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls
• 1–2 cookie sheets
• 2 large griddle spatulas
• 2 heatproof spatulas or wooden spoons
• 1 large saucepan (for caramel)
• 1 griddle dome
• 1 large popcorn bowl
• Oven mitts
• Cleaning supplies

Ingredients

Candied Pecans

• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1 stick butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp baking soda

Popcorn

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste
• ½ cup popcorn kernels

Caramel and Mix-Ins

• 2 cups brown sugar
• ½ cup corn syrup
• 2 sticks butter
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 cups pretzels
• 1 to 1½ cups candy
  (M&M’s, Smarties, mini Rolos, or similar)

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1 — Candied Pecans

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. On the low-heat zone, toast pecans, stirring often until fragrant. Do not burn.
3. On another low-to-medium zone, melt butter.
4. Add sugar mixture to butter. Stir constantly until smooth and mostly dissolved.
5. Stir in baking soda (mixture will foam and lighten).
6. Add toasted pecans and coat completely.
7. Transfer immediately to a cookie sheet. Spread in a single layer.
8. Let cool completely.
9. Clean the griddle before moving to the next step.

STEP 2 — Griddle Popcorn

1. On the low-heat zone, add oil to the griddle.
2. Add kernels and a pinch of salt.
3. Cover with griddle dome.
4. Let pop, gently shaking or stirring occasionally.
5. When popping slows, remove from heat.
6. Transfer popcorn to a large bowl and set aside.

STEP 3 — Caramel and Base Mix

1. On the high-heat zone (or burner), place saucepan.
2. Add butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt.
3. Heat gently until melted, thick, and glossy. Stir lightly—do not over-stir.
4. Remove from heat. Stir in baking soda (caramel will foam and lighten).
5. Wearing oven mitts, pour caramel onto the low-to-medium heat zone of the griddle.
6. Immediately add pretzels and popcorn.
7. Use large spatulas to fold and toss quickly until coated.
8. Transfer mixture to bowls or cookie sheets and spread out to cool.

Optional — Bake for Extra Crunch

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Spread mixture evenly on cookie sheets.
3. Bake 30 minutes, stirring once or twice.
4. Remove and let cool completely.

Final Assembly

1. Once fully cooled, break apart large clusters.
2. Mix in candied pecans.
3. Add candies and gently toss until evenly distributed.
4. Serve immediately or store in airtight containers or gift bags.