Peanut Cracker Jacks

Directions

1. 1
   Mix together popped corn and peanuts in a very large bowl or roaster pan.
2. 2
   Keep warm in a 250° oven.
3. 3
   Melt margarine in a heavy two-quart saucepan.
4. 4
   Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup and salt. Bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly, using medium heat. Boil without stirring for 5 minutes.
5. 5
   Remove from heat; stir in baking soda and vanilla.
6. 6
   Quickly pour over popcorn-peanut mixture, tossing until kernels and nuts are well coated.
7. 7
   Spread out in shallow baking pan or large sheet.
8. 8
   Bake at 250° for 45 minutes, stirring once every 15 minutes, then remove from the oven.
9. 9
   Turn out on aluminum foil to cool.
10. 10
    Break into pieces. Store in tightly covered container.
11. 11
    Makes 3 quarts and stores well in a gallon jar.
12. 12
    Mixture does not have crisp texture until cooled.