Popcorn Brittle

We are always willing to try new caramel corn, so when I saw this popcorn brittle I just had to give it a try. It taste just like peanut brittle. I used small baking M&M's because I had them on hand. They didn't hold up so well. I definitely think that the bigger ones wouldn't melt as quickly and would add a bigger splash when it comes to the fun colorful dimension they are to add to the treat. We ate it and enjoyed it anyway! This recipe reminds me of Harry and David's Gourmet Moose popcorn with the chocolate drizzles.

1 bag (3.3 oz) Gourmet Butter Microwave popcorn (I used a 98% fat-free version)
1 cup M&M's plain candies
1 1/2 cups firmly packed Brown Sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
1 cup Lightly Salted Peanuts
1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda

Prepare popcorn according to package directions. REMOVE all UNPOPPED KERNELS. Spread pooped corn evenly in 15 x 10-inch nonstick shallow baking pan. Sprinkle evenly with M&M's; set aside.
Place sugar, butter, corn syrup and vanilla in medium heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to medium-high and cook 3 minutes, stirring constantly with wooden spoon. Add peanuts. Cook an additional 2 minutes or to the hard-crack stage (300-310 degrees), stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Add baking soda and mix well.
Immediately pour caramel mixture evenly over popped corn and candy until coated. DO NOT STIR! (We learned the hard way!) Let stand 30 minutes or until caramel has cooled and hardened.

When Cool Break into pieces, share some with friends & neighbors then simply enjoy!