Classic Caramel Corn

Step 1
Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C). Spray a large shallow roasting pan with cooking spray, then fill with popcorn.

Step 2
Place in the preheated oven while preparing caramel.

Step 3
Mix brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt together in a heavy 2-quart saucepan over medium heat; stir constantly until mixture comes to a boil.

Step 4
Stop stirring, and boil mixture for 5 minutes.

Step 5
Remove from the heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla until well combined.

Step 6
Pour syrup over warmed popcorn and stir until evenly coated.

Step 7
Return to the oven and bake for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8
Remove from the oven and spread onto a large foil sheet greased with cooking spray.

Step 9
Cool, then break apart and store in a tightly covered container.