Easy Caramel Corn

From Southern Living.

• Ready In: 1 hr 30 mins
• Yields: 18 cups

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄4 cups light brown sugar
• 2⁄3 cup butter
• 1⁄2 cup light corn syrup
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1  teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1⁄4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 (3 1/3ounce) packages  microwave popcorn, popped
• 1 (10 ounce) can  salted mixed nuts (optional)

Directions

1. Bring first 5 ingredients to a boil in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. Reduce heat to medium low, and simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in 1/4 teaspoons baking soda.
3. Combine popcorn and, if desired, nuts in a lightly greased roasting pan. Pour sugar mixture evenly over popcorn. Using a lightly greased spatula, stir well to coat.
4. Bake at 250 for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
5. Spread on wax paper to cool, breaking apart large clumps as mixture cools.
6. Store in airtight containers.