Ready to experience a flavorful twist on a classic treat? Dive into the world of gourmet popcorn with this Sesame Caramel Corn recipe. This sweet and savory snack blends the nuttiness of sesame with the richness of caramel, creating an irresistible crunch that's perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a unique snack.
This recipe calls for a few ingredients that may not be commonly found in your pantry such as tahini and real maple syrup. Tahini is a paste made from sesame seeds and is often used in Middle Eastern dishes. It has a creamy, nutty taste and can usually be found in the international food aisle of your grocery store. The use of real maple syrup, as opposed to artificial or pancake syrup, is crucial for the quality of caramel flavor.
Ingredients for Sesame Caramel Corn
Popcorn kernels: The main ingredient for this recipe, commonly used for homemade popcorn.
Coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil: Used to pop the popcorn kernels, and adds a subtle flavor.
Real maple syrup: Provides the sweetness in the caramel. Real maple syrup is richer and more flavorful than pancake or artificial syrup.
Tahini: A sesame seed paste that gives a nutty flavor to the caramel.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor to the caramel.
Fine sea salt: Enhances the sweetness of the caramel and brings balance to the flavors.
Cinnamon: Adds a hint of warmth to the caramel.
Sesame seeds: They are sprinkled over the popcorn for a crunchy texture and added nuttiness.
One reader, Bret Dillon says:
This sesame caramel corn recipe is a game-changer! The combination of tahini caramel and sesame seeds adds a unique and delightful flavor to the popcorn. It's the perfect blend of sweet and savory, and the crunchy texture is so satisfying. I can't get enough of it!
Techniques for Making Perfect Sesame Caramel Corn
How to make popcorn: This technique involves heating oil in a pan, adding popcorn kernels, and cooking them until they pop. It's important to shake the pan occasionally and crack the lid slightly to ensure the popcorn stays crisp.
How to make tahini caramel: This technique involves boiling maple syrup, then adding tahini, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon to create a smooth caramel sauce. It's important to whisk the mixture until well blended before drizzling it over the popcorn.
How To Make Sesame Caramel Corn
Natural sweeteners are used for this vegan caramel corn. Sesame seeds, tahini, and vanilla extract add an extra oomph to this recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Popcorn:
- ⅓cuppopcorn kernels
- 1tbspcoconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil
For Tahini Caramel:
- ½cupreal maple syrup
- 3tbsptahini
- 1½tspvanilla extract
- ¼tspfine sea salt
- ¼tspcinnamon,plus more for sprinkling
- 2tbspsesame seeds
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Popcorn:
-
First, place a large mixing bowl near the stove. Pour the oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pan with a lid. Turn the heat up to medium, add 2 kernels of corn, and cover.
-
Once the kernels pop, remove the lid and pour in the remaining popcorn kernels. Cover the pot and give the pot a little shimmy to distribute the kernels evenly.
-
Cook over medium heat, shaking the pot occasionally. Crack the lid just a smidge so the popcorn stays crisp, and cook until the popping sound slows to about one pop per every few seconds.
-
Remove the pan from heat and dump the popcorn your bowl, taking care not to pour in any unpopped kernels at the bottom of the pot. If necessary, pick out any unpopped kernels that made it into the bowl with a spoon.
Tahini Caramel:
-
In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the maple syrup to a boil over medium heat. Keep a watchful eye on the syrup and continue boiling for 2 minutes and 30 seconds, reducing heat only if necessary to prevent overflow.
-
Remove the pot from heat. Add the tahini, vanilla extract, salt and cinnamon to the pot of maple syrup. Whisk until well blended, then drizzle the maple mixture over the popcorn.
-
Gently toss with a rubber spatula or big spoon until well mixed. Pour the popcorn onto the parchment-covered baking sheet and arrange it in a single layer. Evenly sprinkle sesame seeds over the popcorn.
-
Bake the popcorn for 6 minutes, then rotate the pan and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with additional cinnamon and salt, to taste.
-
The popcorn will continue to crisp up as it cools. Once it’s cool, break the popcorn into pieces (or leave them in chunks!) and serve.
-
This popcorn stays crisp for up to 3 days in an air-tight container.
Nutrition
- Calories: 177.90kcal
- Fat: 8.09g
- Saturated Fat: 2.78g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.29g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.63g
- Carbohydrates: 25.04g
- Fiber: 1.96g
- Sugar: 16.11g
- Protein: 2.55g
- Sodium: 108.93mg
- Calcium: 89.57mg
- Potassium: 121.05mg
- Iron: 1.35mg
- Vitamin A: 0.24µg
- Vitamin C: 0.00mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Sesame Caramel Corn Recipe
When making the tahini caramel, it's crucial to keep a close eye on the maple syrup as it boils. If it overflows or burns, it can drastically alter the flavor of your caramel. To avoid this, consider using a larger pot than you think you need, and reduce the heat if it starts to boil too vigorously. Additionally, whisking the caramel ingredients until well blended ensures a smooth and even flavor throughout your popcorn.
Time-Saving Tips for Sesame Caramel Corn Recipe
Prepare the popcorn: Use pre-popped popcorn to save time and skip the stovetop popping process.
Use store-bought caramel: Save time by using store-bought caramel sauce instead of making the tahini caramel from scratch.
Multi-task: While the popcorn is baking, prepare other dishes or clean up to maximize efficiency.
Use a silicone baking mat: Line the baking sheet with a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent the caramel from sticking.
Substitute Ingredients For Sesame Caramel Corn Recipe
popcorn kernels - Substitute with popped popcorn: If you don't have popcorn kernels, you can use already popped popcorn. Just make sure it's plain and unsalted.
coconut oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for coconut oil to add richness and flavor to the caramel corn.
real maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a substitute for maple syrup to add sweetness and stickiness to the caramel.
tahini - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for tahini to add a nutty flavor and creamy texture to the caramel.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped almonds: Chopped almonds can be used as a substitute for sesame seeds to add crunch and nuttiness to the caramel corn.
Presentation Ideas for Sesame Caramel Corn
Elevate the popcorn: Arrange the caramel corn in a decorative serving dish to showcase its golden color and texture.
Garnish with sesame seeds: Sprinkle additional sesame seeds on top of the caramel corn for a visually appealing and flavorful touch.
Serve with style: Present the caramel corn in individual miniature bowls or paper cones for an elegant and sophisticated presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a pop of color and a delicate floral essence by garnishing the caramel corn with edible flowers such as pansies or violets.
Create a caramel drizzle: Drizzle a small amount of caramel sauce over the plated caramel corn for an artistic and indulgent finish.
Use unique serving vessels: Serve the caramel corn in hollowed-out coconut shells or edible cups made from sesame brittle for a creative and memorable presentation.
Add a touch of gold: Dust the caramel corn with edible gold leaf for a luxurious and extravagant touch that will impress the judges.
Essential Tools for Making Caramel Corn
- Large, heavy-bottomed pan with a lid: This is used to pop the popcorn kernels over medium heat.
- Rubber spatula or big spoon: This is used to gently toss the popcorn with the tahini caramel mixture until well mixed.
- Small, heavy-bottomed saucepan: This is used to bring the maple syrup to a boil and to mix the tahini caramel ingredients.
- Rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper: This is used to bake the popcorn and ensure it doesn't stick to the pan.
- Oven: The oven is used to bake the popcorn and sesame seeds until they are crispy.
Storing and Freezing Sesame Caramel Corn
- To store the sesame caramel corn, let it cool completely to room temperature. This will ensure that the caramel coating hardens and the popcorn stays crisp.
- Once cooled, transfer the caramel corn to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Store the container or bag of caramel corn in a cool, dry place, such as your pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as the moisture can cause the popcorn to become soggy.
- When stored properly, the sesame caramel corn will stay fresh and crisp for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- If you want to freeze the caramel corn for longer storage, place the cooled popcorn in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when it was frozen.
- When you're ready to enjoy the frozen caramel corn, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour. This will help the popcorn regain its crispness.
- Tip: If the caramel corn loses some of its crispness after freezing and thawing, you can place it on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 3-5 minutes to refresh the texture.
How To Reheat Leftover Sesame Caramel Corn
The best way to reheat leftover sesame caramel corn is to preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the popcorn in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the popcorn is crisp and warm. This method helps to restore the crunchiness of the caramel coating and prevents the popcorn from becoming soggy.
Alternatively, you can reheat the sesame caramel corn in a microwave. Place a single serving of popcorn in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high power for 20-30 seconds. Stir the popcorn and continue heating in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature and crispness. Be careful not to overheat the popcorn, as it can quickly burn in the microwave.
If you have a large quantity of leftover sesame caramel corn, you can reheat it in a slow cooker or crockpot. Set the slow cooker to low heat and add the popcorn. Cover the slow cooker and let the popcorn warm for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This method is ideal for keeping the popcorn warm during parties or gatherings.
For a quick and easy reheating option, you can use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and place a single layer of sesame caramel corn in the basket. Heat the popcorn for 2-3 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method is perfect for achieving a crispy texture without the need for an oven.
Interesting Fact About Sesame Caramel Corn
The sesame caramel corn recipe is a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of tahini with the sweetness of maple syrup. It offers a unique twist on traditional caramel corn and is a great option for a movie night snack or a party treat. This recipe showcases the versatility of tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, in creating a rich and flavorful caramel coating for the popcorn. Tahini is a staple ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine and is known for its creamy texture and nutty taste. It adds a delightful depth of flavor to the caramel corn, making it a truly irresistible snack.
Is Making Sesame Caramel Corn at Home Cost-Effective?
This sesame caramel corn recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. Popcorn kernels, maple syrup, and tahini are all reasonably priced, and the recipe yields a large batch that can serve a family of four for several days. The total cost for the ingredients is approximately $10, making it an economical treat. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10, considering its affordability, delicious flavor, and the joy it brings to the table.
Is Sesame Caramel Corn Healthy or Unhealthy?
This sesame caramel corn recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional caramel corn, but it still contains some ingredients that may not be considered entirely healthy. Here's a breakdown of the recipe:
- Popcorn is a whole grain and a good source of fiber, making it a relatively healthy snack option.
- Coconut oil and olive oil are both healthier alternatives to butter, which is commonly used in caramel corn recipes.
- Maple syrup is a natural sweetener and contains some minerals, but it is still high in sugar.
- Tahini is made from sesame seeds and is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and minerals.
- Cinnamon and vanilla extract add flavor without contributing to the sugar content.
- Sesame seeds provide additional healthy fats, protein, and minerals.
While this recipe is a step in the right direction, there are still some areas for improvement to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of maple syrup used to lower the overall sugar content. You can experiment with using less syrup or substituting a portion of it with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Increase the amount of tahini to boost the protein and healthy fat content, which can help balance out the carbohydrates from the popcorn and maple syrup.
- Add more spices like ginger or nutmeg to enhance the flavor without relying on additional sweeteners.
- Experiment with using different types of popcorn, such as air-popped or non-GMO varieties, to minimize exposure to additives and chemicals.
- Incorporate other nutrient-dense ingredients, such as chopped nuts or dried fruit, to increase the overall nutritional value of the snack.
Editor's Opinion on This Sesame Caramel Corn Recipe
The sesame caramel corn recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The use of tahini in the caramel adds a unique nuttiness, while the sesame seeds provide a pleasant crunch. The method of making the popcorn ensures a light and crispy texture, and the addition of cinnamon and salt enhances the overall taste. This recipe is a wonderful twist on traditional caramel corn and is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself.
Enhance Your Sesame Caramel Corn Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Sesame Caramel Corn
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Sesame Caramel Corn
Why trust this Sesame Caramel Corn Recipe:
This recipe offers a unique twist on a classic snack, combining the irresistible crunch of popcorn with a luscious tahini caramel that's both sweet and savory. The use of real maple syrup and tahini ensures a rich, authentic flavor profile, while the addition of sesame seeds provides a delightful nuttiness. With careful attention to detail in the cooking process, this recipe promises a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Trust in the combination of wholesome ingredients and expert techniques to elevate your snacking experience.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
My Amish Friend’s Caramel Corn Recipe
Classic Caramel Corn Recipe
Garrett’s Dark Chocolate Caramel Corn Recipe
Garrett’s Peanut Butter Caramel Corn Recipe
Caramel Popcorn Recipe
Caramel Corn Recipe
Cinnamon Bun Caramel Corn Recipe
Garrett’s Caramel Corn Recipe
Caramel Corn Cupcakes Recipe
Microwave Caramel Popcorn Recipe
Garrett’s Cinnamon Almond Caramel Corn Recipe
