Pecan Cracker Jacks

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 250 degrees F .
2. 2
   Combine popcorn and pecans in a metal bowl or on a cookie sheet and place in the preheated oven.
3. 3
   Combine the rest of the ingredients in a saucepan and stir over medium heat, bringing mixture to a boil.
4. 4
   Using a cooking thermometer, bring mixture to a hard-ball stage - 260 degrees (syrup will form a hard, but workable, ball if dripped into cold water).
5. 5
   This will take about 20 minutes or until you notice the mixture turning dark brown.
6. 6
   Remove popcorn and pecans from the oven.
7. 7
   Working quickly, drizzle the caramel mixture stream over them.
8. 8
   Put mixture back in the oven for 15 minutes and stir well every five minutes to ensure even coating.
9. 9
   Cool and store in a covered container.