Microwave Caramel Corn

Directions

1. 1
   Spray a brown paper bag with cooking spray.
2. 2
   Add popped popcorn and set the bag aside.
3. 3
   Measure out baking soda; set aside.
4. 4
   Combine margarine, sugar, corn syrup and salt in a saucepan; bring to a hard boil, stirring constantly.
5. 5
   Boil for 2 minutes (still stirring), then remove from heat and immediately stir in baking soda.
6. 6
   Pour mixture over the popcorn and stir to combine.
7. 7
   Once popcorn is fairly evenly coated with caramel mixture, fold the top of the bag down and shake.
8. 8
   Put bag in the microwave and cook on high for 1 minute*.
9. 9
   Take the bag out and shake again (bag will be hot!).
10. 10
    Return to the microwave and cook for 1 minute more.
11. 11
    Take it out of the microwave, put popcorn in a bowl and EAT!
12. 12
    Caramel corn will harden and start to stick together as it cools, so you may want to stir it to break it apart periodically.
13. 13
    This is easiest to do with the handle of a wooden spoon.
14. 14
    *If you have a high-powered microwave, you may want to lower the heat level one or two levels (i.e.
15. 15
    not at full strength), or slightly adjust the microwave time, to keep the sugar in the caramel from burning.