Red, White & Yum Popcorn Clusters

A Flavorful Family Tradition: Red, White & Yum Popcorn Clusters

Growing up in a bustling kitchen, the enticing aroma of buttery popcorn wafting through the halls always signaled it was time for a special family treat. Every summer, my grandmother would gather us around the table to make popcorn clusters adorned with red and white sprinkles, celebrating the 4th of July while capturing the spirit of our American heritage. Each crunch brought memories of laughter, sparklers, and sun-drenched afternoons spent together.

This treasured recipe, now lovingly dubbed “Red, White & Yum Popcorn Clusters,” is an easy and fun treat that captures the essence of patriotism and playful nostalgia. With its chewy, sweet center, it’s perfect for sharing at BBQs, picnics, or cozy movie nights at home. Come along and discover why this delightful snack will become a new favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Red, White & Yum Popcorn Clusters

• One-bowl wonder: Easy cleanup so you can focus on the fun!
• Kid-approved: Perfect for little hands to help mix and decorate.
• Festive and fun: Great for summer gatherings, parties, and holidays!
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins for a personal twist.
• Gluten-free: This treat can easily be made gluten-free with the right ingredients.

Ingredients

• 8 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup red and white sprinkles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Popcorn

1. Pop the popcorn: Use an air popper or stovetop method to pop the kernels. Place popped popcorn in a large bowl, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels.

Make the Sweet Mixture

2. Cook sugar mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring continuously.
3. Add baking soda & vanilla: Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla. The mixture will bubble up—this is perfectly normal!

Combine & Form Clusters

4. Mix popcorn: Pour the hot mixture over the popcorn, using a spatula to gently fold it until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Shape clusters: Let it cool slightly, then with buttered hands, form small clusters of popcorn and place them on a wax-paper lined baking sheet.

Decorate

6. Add sprinkles: While still warm, sprinkle clusters with red and white sprinkles for a festive touch.

Set & Enjoy

7. Let cool: Allow clusters to cool completely until set. Store in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute syrups: Replace light corn syrup with maple syrup for a twist.
• Add mix-ins: Try adding mini chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for an extra crunch and flavor!
• Dye for holidays: Change the sprinkle colors for other holidays (green for St. Patrick’s Day, pastel for Easter).
• Dietary swaps: Use dairy-free butter to make this a vegan-friendly option.

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: Store the popcorn clusters in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze clusters in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Calories per serving: 150 (based on 10 servings)
• Servings: About 10

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use microwave popcorn?

   • Yes! Just be careful of any added butter or seasonings that might interfere with the sweetness.

2. What if I don’t have corn syrup?

   • You can use honey or agave syrup, but the texture may change slightly.

3. Are these clusters suitable for a gluten-free diet?

   • Absolutely! Just ensure your popcorn and sprinkles are labeled gluten-free.

4. How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?

   • Lightly butter your hands before shaping the popcorn clusters to help minimize sticking.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

• Pair with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea for a delightful summer treat.
• Enhance the snack with a side of chocolate-dipped fruits like strawberries or bananas.

Final Thoughts

These Red, White & Yum Popcorn Clusters are not just a sweet snack; they’re a celebration of family, tradition, and summer fun. I invite you to share your own versions or variations in the comments below. Let’s keep the joy of cooking and connection alive, one delicious recipe at a time! Happy cooking, friends!

Red, White & Yum Popcorn Clusters

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• Author: rosalind-chef-2
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A delightful and festive treat of popcorn clusters adorned with red and white sprinkles, perfect for summer gatherings and holidays.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup red and white sprinkles

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Instructions

1. Pop the popcorn: Use an air popper or stovetop method to pop the kernels. Place popped popcorn in a large bowl, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels.
2. Cook sugar mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring continuously.
3. Add baking soda & vanilla: Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla. The mixture will bubble up—this is perfectly normal!
4. Mix popcorn: Pour the hot mixture over the popcorn, using a spatula to gently fold it until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Shape clusters: Let it cool slightly, then with buttered hands, form small clusters of popcorn and place them on a wax-paper lined baking sheet.
6. Add sprinkles: While still warm, sprinkle clusters with red and white sprinkles for a festive touch.
7. Let cool: Allow clusters to cool completely until set. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

For a twist, you can substitute with maple syrup or add mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor. Ensure the used ingredients are gluten-free for dietary needs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Mixing & Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg