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Position 2 oven racks evenly in the oven and preheat the oven to 225°F. Line 2 rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
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In a large, heavy saucepan or pot, warm the oil over medium-high heat.
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Add the corn kernels, swirl the pot to coat them with oil, then cover the pan.
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Pop the corn, shaking the pot occasionally to prevent burning or sticking.
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When the popping sounds slow down the popcorn is ready. Pour the popcorn into a large metal or other heatproof bowl, discarding any un-popped kernels.
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To make the caramel, in a heavy saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and corn syrup. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the sugar melts and the mixture boils.
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Continue to boil until thickened, whisking occasionally, about 3 minutes (be careful not to let it burn).
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Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla, fine sea salt, and baking soda. Stir with a whisk to combine, then immediately pour over the popcorn.
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Using a heatproof rubber spatula and moving quickly, stir the popcorn until evenly and well coated with the caramel (be careful because the caramel is very hot).
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Pour it onto the baking sheets, dividing it evenly.
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Spread out the popcorn into an even layer and sprinkle with the coarse sea salt.
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Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring 3 or 4 times during baking.
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Let cool completely in the pans on a wire rack, then break apart and serve.
Tip:
- Enjoy as a dessert or place in a jar for a delicious gift!