Bacon Caramel Popcorn (Sweet and Salty Game Day Snack)
This Bacon Caramel Popcorn recipe is a sweet, salty, crunchy treat that’s perfect for fall parties, game day gatherings, or holiday gift tins. Crispy bacon pieces and buttery caramel coat fluffy popcorn for an addictive snack that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Made with Dell Cove® Mushroom popcorn kernels - along with Kettle Corn and Salted Caramel popcorn seasonings, it’s the ultimate sweet-and-savory party mix.
Plus, this recipe teaches you to pop popcorn using bacon drippings. The results are fantastic!
Quick Answer
TL;DR: Pop the popcorn → cook bacon until crisp → make caramel → stir together → bake for crunch → cool → break into pieces.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect balance of sweet, salty, and smoky
Great for gifting, parties, or cozy movie nights
Stays crisp for days
Fall-inspired, but delicious year-round
Bacon Caramel Popcorn (Sweet and Salty Game Day Snack)
In a large sauté or frying pan over medium-low heat, cook the bacon until crisp and most of the fat has rendered.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings.
Step 3: Pop the Popcorn
In a large stockpot over medium heat, combine the reserved bacon drippings and vegetable oil. Add 3 popcorn kernels and cover.
When the first kernel pops, remove the pot from the heat for 1 minute. Return to the heat and add the remaining kernels.
Shake the pot occasionally until popping slows. Transfer popcorn to a large bowl, discard unpopped kernels, and toss with the cooked bacon.
Step 4: Make the Caramel
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and popcorn seasonings.
Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Let boil undisturbed for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla (it will bubble vigorously).
Step 5: Coat the Popcorn
Immediately pour the caramel over the popcorn and bacon. Stir to coat evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Popcorn
Spread coated popcorn on parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Bake for about 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Cool completely, break into pieces, and serve. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Recipe Note
Serving Ideas
Package in tins or bags for gifts
Pair with bourbon or cider for an autumn happy hour
Serve in bowls at game day parties
FAQs
Q: How long does it stay fresh?
A: Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the caramel.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as your corn syrup and bacon are certified gluten-free. All Dell Cove® popcorn kernels and seasonings are gluten-free
Did you make this recipe? Share your creations with us on Instagram! You can find our Instagram account here – or tag your creation with #dellcovespices and we would love to give you a shout-out!
Leave a comment