Spray a cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray and set aside
Microwave a bag of popcorn. I use "Natural" by Orville Redenbacher which is lightly salted & not buttered.
When the popcorn is done pour it into a large bowl and sift through it to remove the unpopped kernels. (they usually settle on the bottom) Set aside.
In a medium saucepan melt butter
Add in brown sugar, corn syrup & vanilla
Stir and bring to a boil. Then reduce heat and simmer for about 2-3 minutes. (be sure to watch the sauce carefully because it is hell to clean up if it boils over)
Add baking soda & stir. The mixture will become lighter and frothy
Quickly pour the caramel mixture over popcorn and toss with a spoon until well coated. Work quickly since the caramel hardens pretty fast. If you are adding in peanuts then toss them in as well. (hmm...I guess you could also just pour the popcorn into the caramel sauce...I'll do that next time around to see if it makes mixing easier)
Spread popcorn in a a single layer on a baking sheet and let sit until it's set. Go ahead and have a taste. I can never wait until it's done to start munching!
When popcorn is set, break it apart and store in an airtight container.
Recipe by Divas Can Cook at https://divascancook.com/gourmet-caramel-covered-popcorn/