Summary
Immortalized in song as a timeless ballpark snack, Cracker Jack is still going strong after more than 100 years in the game. In the CHOW Test Kitchen, we came up with our own version of the molasses-and-caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts, along with a nifty cone you can print out and roll up to serve it in. Tuck in a surprise, and you’ll have a crunchy, munchy treat that Sailor Jack would salute.
What to buy: There are various intensities of molasses available, from light to blackstrap. Dark (sometimes marketed as robust) tastes best in this recipe. Molasses can be found in the baking aisle at grocery stores.
For a video demonstration on how to fold the custom cone, check out our Make Your Own Cracky Snack project page.
Ingredients
- 15 cups plain popped popcorn (from about 1/2 cup kernels), unpopped kernels removed
- 3/4 cup roasted, salted peanuts
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (3/4 stick), cut into 6 pieces, plus more for coating the pan
- 3 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons dark molasses, such as Grandma’s Robust
- 3/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon baking soda