Cousin Charlie'S Christmas Caramel Corn - cooking recipe

Ingredients

8 c. popped popcorn
1 1/2 c. whole almonds, peanuts, cashews or pecan halves
1 (6 oz.) pkg. dried fruit bits
1 c. packed brown sugar
1/2 c. granulated sugar
2/3 c. butter or margarine
1/3 c. light corn syrup
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. vanilla

Preparation

Place first 3 ingredients on a cookie sheet with edges.
In a heavy saucepan, combine next 4 ingredients.
Cook over medium heat to boiling, stirring often.
Continue, stirring occasionally, until mixture is golden brown (about 15 minutes).
Remove from heat; stir in baking soda and vanilla.
Pour over popcorn mixture, stirring gently to coat.
Bake at 300\u00b0 for 15 minutes; stir.
Bake 5 minutes more.
Transfer to foil; cool thoroughly.
Break up.
Store in airtight container.
Makes about 10 cups.