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+ servings
Overhead photo of pink popcorn in a bowl.
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4.37 from 19 votes

Old Fashioned Pink Popcorn

Just like the Lucky Elephant brand pink popcorn you remember eating as a kid. It's easy to make at home, and makes a great healthier Valentine's day treat.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Drying Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 25 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Canadian
Keyword: Canada, Canadian, Canadian food, gluten free, healthy, pink, Pink Elephant, pink popcorn, popcorn, snack, sweet, vegetarian
Servings: 24 cups
Calories: 100kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 ounces popcorn kernels
  • cup whole milk or half and half
  • 1 Tablespoon white corn syrup
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • pink food coloring I use Wilton Color Gel in Rose to get the perfect shade

Instructions

  • Prepare 2 large baking sheets by lining with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
  • Pop 6 ounces popcorn kernels using an air popper or in a pot. This makes a large amount (about 24 cups) of popcorn, so you may have to do it in 2 batches. Place the popcorn into one or two large bowls and set aside.
  • Stir ⅔ cup whole milk or half and half, 1 Tablespoon white corn syrup, and ¼ teaspoon salt together in a small saucepan. Pour 2 cups granulated sugar into the center of the saucepan, being careful not to get any on the sides of the pot. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar is completely dissolved.
  • Stir occasionally until mixture reaches 230°F on an instant-read or candy thermometer. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla and pink food coloring (several drops of red should do, or about ½ a toothpick dipped into gel color).
  • Working quickly, pour sugar mixture evenly over popcorn and stir until the popcorn is evenly coated. Spread popcorn over 2 large baking sheets to dry. Once popcorn is completely dry, store in airtight bags or containers.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 100kcal