It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

 



 


The weather outside is--as the song says-- frightful this morning. Our first snowfall of the season, while not abundant, started with a thunderstorm last night, changed over to sleet, and then turned to snow. The howling winds are making things pretty brisk out there and it's still completely dark at 7 a.m.

The good news is that we're all inside, cozy and warm, and I really have no reason to leave home today. This day will be all about wrapping, making final lists for next week, baking and just hanging out together. I've already baked plates and plates of treats to give away, but now I need some for my family! I think another batch of caramel corn is definitely in order; it's so easy to make and hard to resist. Here's my recipe, in case you're looking for a delicious treat to gift (or keep)! 

Microwave Caramel Popcorn

(You will need a clean brown paper grocery bag in which you will cook the caramel corn.)

Pop your corn in a favorite popper. You will need a total of 4 quarts (16 cups) of popped corn.

Combine and cook in a microwavable bowl on full power for 4 minutes, stirring twice:

1/2 cup corn syrup

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup butter

1/2 teaspoon salt

After microwaving add 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 t vanilla to the above mixture; stir vigorously.Put popped corn in large brown paper bag; salt lightly. Pour small amount of cooked caramel syrup over popped corn, then shake. Continue this process until all the syrup is used up. Fold the bag of covered corn over and place in the microwave. Cook on full power for 1 1/2 minutes, then remove bag and shake or stir corn with spoon. Repeat, cooking every 30 seconds, and then stir corn. Check after 3 minutes of cooking time. It is done when it is no longer sticky. Spread out on cake pans to cool. Enjoy!