The Best Caramel Corn

3 qt popped popcorn

1 c firmly packed brown sugar

½ c butter

½ c light corn syrup

½ t salt

½ t vanilla

½ t baking soda

Pour the popcorn into a large roasting pan (don't forget to take out the unpopped kernals) and place in 250º F oven. In heavy 2 qt saucepan stir next 4 ingredients. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Without stirring, boil 5 min. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and baking soda. Pour over warm pop corn and stir to coat. Bake in 250º F oven, stirring occasionally (I stir every 15 min.) , for 1 hr. Cool, break apart. Make 4 qt. or more (see below).

I pop two batches of air popped corn and it turns out to be just the right amount for us.