No-Bake Movie Theater Mayhem Snack Bars
I am constantly trying out new recipes for the Bliss Candies shop, which includes thinking up of some of my own concoctions! These just remind me of the going to the theater, as it combines all of the main “snacks” that I would normally think of getting while I’m there 
These bars cam together quickly and are quite tasty, but won’t make it into the shop as they are best eaten the day they are made. My kids love these and they are perfect for the summertime, as no baking is required! And remember, my measurements are approximate, as I cook rather loosely, haha. Also, I use homemade caramel, but I’m sure store-bought caramels (like Kraft) will work just fine.
These bars can be made to your liking and again, adjust the ingredients as needed, especially the caramel mix. If you’ve ever made Special K bars, then you know what the caramel coating should sort of be like.
Movie Theater Mayhem Snack Bars recipe:
- 1 large bag of microwave butter popcorn-popped (you’ll need 6-8 cups)
- 1/2 cup or so of caramel
- 1 TBLS of corn syrup or cream
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips or 1 chopped up candy bar (snickers, baby ruth, or other firm candy bar works best)
Instrtuctions:
- Lightly spray an 8 x 8 pan and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl combine 6 large handfuls of popcorn (6-7 cups), the peanuts, and the chocolate chips or candy pieces. Set aside.
- In a microwave safe bowl combine the caramel and corn syrup or cream, and gently heat on low power. You just want it warm enough so it is easy to stir, don’t allow the caramel to bubble/boil, as that will “cook” the caramel and may make it too firm. Once the caramel is warm, give it a good stir to combine it with the cream or corn syrup you added. At this point it should be a little runny, like a thick pancake mix. If it seems too thick to work with or if it cooling/setting too quickly, add a little more cream or corn syrup to it.
- Pour the caramel mix right into the mixing bowl with the popcorn and stir well. You want all of the popcorn and mix-ins to be covered by the caramel mix. If there seems too be too much caramel, add in more popcorn. You want just enough caramel to coat everything, nothing extra.
- Press the mix into the 8 x 8 pan with the back of a rubber scraper/spatula and pop them in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. Once they are cool and set, cut with a sharp knife that has been buttered or sprayed.
