1 batch base popcorn (above), butter and salt reserved
Caramel
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup packed light brown sugar
¼ cup light corn syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 batch base popcorn (above)
Directions
BASE POPCORN
Place the corn kernels in an air popper and pop according to the manufacturer's directions. In a large bowl, toss the popped popcorn with the butter and salt.
CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together, stirring every 30 seconds, until fully melted. Stir in the vanilla until well combined
Pour the chocolate peanut butter mixture over the popcorn and toss to coat. Sprinkle the popcorn with the powdered sugar and toss again to fully coat the popcorn.
Store any variation in a sealed bag at room temperature for up to 5 days.
RANCH
In a small bowl, combine the powdered buttermilk, parsley, dill, mustard powder, onion powder, and garlic salt to make ranch seasoning. Pour the reserved butter and salt and the ranch seasoning over the base popcorn and toss together to fully coat the popcorn.
CARAMEL
Preheat the oven to 250°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and corn syrup and stir constantly until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring. Boil the mixture without stirring for 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the mixture from the heat and carefully stir in the vanilla and salt.
Pour the caramel mixture over the base popcorn and stir to coat. Evenly spread the popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 1 hour, stirring carefully every 15 minutes. Allow the popcorn to cool for 20 minutes. Pour the popcorn into a clean bowl, breaking up any large chunks.