Cracker Jill (cracker Jack Copycat)

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 250; line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. 2
   Pour oil and corn into a large pot; cover, heat over medium high and when sound of popping slows down, turn off the heat, slide the lid open just enough to let steam, but not wayward popcorn explosions, escape; pick out any old maids (unpopped kernels) and set aside.
3. 3
   Mix molasses, sugar and corn syrup in a large saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat until the mixture reaches the hard-ball stage on a candy thermometer, 260; stir in the butter, then the baking soda and salt.
4. 4
   The mixture will turn a light caramel color and rise up in a bubbling mass; be prepared but not alarmed.
5. 5
   Stir in the peanuts until coated with caramel.
6. 6
   Pour the peanut-caramel mixture over the popcorn, which is still in it's large pot, and turn with a rubber spatula until nicely coated.
7. 7
   Turn out the popcorn mixture onto the baking sheets; using your spatula, spread it out evenly.
8. 8
   Crisp in the oven for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice; turn off the heat, but leave the caramel corn inside until cool, an hour or more; break up any chunks.