Thanksgiving hosts can add variety with popcorn snacks

Thanksgiving brings family and friends together for traditional meals, but snacks often play a role in holiday gatherings before the main feast.

For those hosting large groups, offering a variety of snacks can help accommodate different tastes. Popcorn is one option that can be prepared in several ways, from traditional buttered popcorn to sweet and savory combinations.

Popcorn can be seasoned with spices, sweetened or mixed with ingredients such as nuts, dried fruit and cheese. These combinations allow hosts to offer different flavors using a common ingredient.

As a whole-grain food, popcorn provides carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Plain, air-popped popcorn is also relatively low in calories, making it an option for guests looking for a lighter snack before Thanksgiving dinner.

Whether served plain, seasoned or combined with other ingredients, popcorn offers hosts a flexible snack option for Thanksgiving and other holiday celebrations.

Try this recipe for Cranberry Orange Caramel Corn for a great holiday snack. For more popcorn recipes and ideas, check out The Popcorn Board website.

Cranberry Orange Caramel Corn

Ingredients

• 10 cups popped popcorn
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup whole almonds
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
• 1/2 packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate, undiluted
• 1 teaspoon orange or vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Place popcorn, cranberries and almonds in a large bowl; set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan heat butter, brown sugar, corn syrup and orange juice concentrate over medium heat until butter is melted. Bring to a boil and boil 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in extract and baking soda (mixture will foam).
3. Pour syrup mixture over popcorn mixture in bowl; stir to coat well.
4. Spread evenly in a large, rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, lined with foil and sprayed with nonstick spray. Bake 30 minutes, stirring twice during baking time. Stir caramel corn as it cools on baking sheet. Store in an airtight container.