Easy Cracker Jacks

Crunchy, caramel-coated, and irresistibly addictive, these Easy Cracker Jacks are your ticket to nostalgic snacking bliss. Made with freshly popped popcorn, roasted peanuts, and a rich homemade caramel sauce, this recipe channels the classic treat with a delicious homemade twist. With just 10 minutes of prep time and simple pantry staples like brown sugar, butter, and light corn syrup, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up this iconic snack. Perfect for game days, movie nights, or gifting, these homemade Cracker Jacks bake to crispy perfection, delivering that signature sweet-salty crunch in every bite. Plus, they store beautifully in an airtight container so you can savor the flavor all week long!

Nutriscore Rating: 44/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 0.5 cup popcorn kernels
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup unsalted peanuts
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 0.25 cup light corn syrup
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.25 teaspoon baking soda

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot with a tight-fitting lid, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the popcorn kernels and cover the pot.

Step 2

Shake the pot occasionally as the kernels begin to pop. Continue shaking until the popping slows to a few seconds between pops, then remove from heat.

Step 3

Transfer the popped popcorn to a large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels. Mix in the peanuts and set aside.

Step 4

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 5

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.

Step 6

Once boiling, stop stirring and let the caramel boil for 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The caramel will foam slightly.

Step 7

Immediately pour the caramel over the popcorn and peanuts. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently toss and coat the popcorn evenly.

Step 8

Spread the coated popcorn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, breaking up any clumps.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even coating.

Step 10

Remove from the oven and let the Cracker Jacks cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break into smaller pieces if necessary.

Step 11

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Enjoy your homemade Cracker Jacks!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	554.3 grams (554.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2642

Total Fat 154.20g	198%
Saturated Fat 43.10g	216%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 124mg	41%
Sodium 1003mg	44%
Total Carbohydrate 307.20g	112%
Dietary Fiber 20.80g	74%
Total Sugars 252.30g
Protein 47.00g	94%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 237mg	18%
Iron 5mg	29%
Potassium 1542mg	33%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.5%

Protein: 6.7%

Carbs: 43.8%