Active Time

　　20 min

　　Total Time

　　1 hr

　　Though nuts plus popcorn is a classic, these treats are a far cry from Cracker Jack.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 8 servings

　　1 3/4 cups sugar

　　5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

　　1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted

　　1/2 teaspoon cider vinegar

　　8 cups plain popped popcorn

　　

Step 1

Oil a 9-inch square baking pan.

　　

Step 2

Heat sugar in a dry 4-to 5-quart wide heavy pot over medium heat, stirring with a fork to heat sugar evenly, until it starts to melt. Stop stirring and cook, swirling pot occasionally so sugar melts evenly, until it is a deep golden caramel. Reduce heat to low. Stir in butter, pecans, vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. When butter is almost melted, add popcorn and stir to coat.

　　

Step 3

Quickly press mixture into baking pan with a spatula. Cool completely. Cut or break into pieces.