Ingredients
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6 slices bacon
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cooking spray
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12 cups popped plain salted popcorn
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2 sticks (1 cup) butter
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup light brown sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp cider vinegar
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1/8 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp ground chipotle
Steps
1
Chop the bacon. In a large skillet, cook bacon on medium 6–7 min., until browned, stirring occasionally. With a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel to remove excess oil and let cool completely.
2
Line a large baking sheet with foil. Spray foil with the cooking spray. Spread the popcorn on foil in thin, even layer. In a large microwave safe bowl, microwave butter on high 1 min., until melted. Whisk in granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and vinegar until smooth. Microwave 6 min., stopping and whisking every 1–2 min. Keep a close eye to make sure it does not bubble over. Microwave 2 min. more, until dark amber in color.
3
Meanwhile, in a food processor, crumble bacon and pulse until very finely chopped. Sprinkle bacon, salt, and ground chipotle over popcorn. Carefully (bowl will be very hot) drizzle hot caramel all over popcorn and bacon. Let stand until set and cool. Break up popcorn to serve. Serve immediately or store in airtight container up to 1 day.
