Classic Caramel Corn

1 . Stage

Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C). Spray a large shallow roasting pan with cooking spray, then fill with popcorn.

2 . Stage

Place in the preheated oven while preparing caramel.

3 . Stage

Mix brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt together in a heavy 2-quart saucepan over medium heat; stir constantly until mixture comes to a boil.

4 . Stage

Stop stirring, and boil mixture for 5 minutes.

5 . Stage

Remove from the heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla until well combined.

6 . Stage

Pour syrup over warmed popcorn and stir until evenly coated.

7 . Stage

Return to the oven and bake for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

8 . Stage

Remove from the oven and spread onto a large foil sheet greased with cooking spray.

9 . Stage

Cool, then break apart and store in a tightly covered container.