Gourmet Caramel Cinnamon Popcorn

     www.ourbestbites.com

* 12 C popped popcorn (about 1/2 C kernels)
* 1 C roughly chopped pecans
* 1 C brown sugar
* 3/4 t cinnamon
* 1/2 tsp. baking soda
* 1 tsp. vanilla
* 1/4 t salt
* 1/4 C Karo syrup (or honey makes a good substitution)
* 1 stick real butter (1/2 C) cut into 1 Tbs sized squares
* 3 oz almond bark (about 2 1/2 squares) I like to use the white chocolate chips from Funfinity

Preheat oven to 250 degrees

Place popcorn and chopped pecans in a large bowl and set aside.

Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a 4 C capacity microwave safe bowl. Mix well Add butter and pour corn syrup over the top. Microwave on high for 30 seconds and then stir to combine. Repeat every 2 minutes until melted (about 4 minutes).

Remove & add in vanilla and baking soda. Stir to combine. Mixture will foam and rise. Pour over popcorn and pecans and stir very well so everything is well coated. Spread popcorn mixture onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Place in oven and bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.

Remove from oven and spread out on a large piece of parchment, waxed paper, or foil to let cool.

Melt almond bark according to package instructions. Drizzle over popcorn mixture. When almond bark is hardened and popcorn is cool, break into chunks and enjoy!