Chicago-Style Caramel-Cheddar Popcorn

The best thing about popcorn is that it’s the perfect canvas for just about any flavor—be it the simple seasoning of butter and salt, a sprinkling of masala, seaweed snacks, or tangy hot sauce. But the combo that reigns over the city of Chicago is caramel and cheddar, first popularized by Garrett Popcorn. To outsiders it may feel like a clash of the titans featuring two equally dominant, contrasting flavors, one with a bittersweet edge and one salty and cheesy. But after just one bite you’ll see the yin-yang between these sweet and salty counterparts, and before you know it, you’ll be staring at a big empty bowl of nothingness.

In this ode to Garrett, I use caramelized honey to give the sweet popcorn a toasted accent and melted butter to coat the remaining popcorn in tangy cheddar powder, which can be purchased easily online. Our preferred brand is Hoosier Hill Farms. When you initially pop your popcorn, be sure to fish out any unpopped kernels before mixing in the caramel and cheddar to prevent any dental mishaps. For the final mixing, opt for a big high-sided bowl for maximum ease and minimal spilling.