Microwave Caramel Corn

Here's a simple way to make decadent caramel corn:

1. Prepare two bags of microwave popcorn and empty them into a large bowl. (Remove any unpopped kernels).

2. In a 4-cup glass measuring cup (or a microwave-safe bowl), stir together:

      1/2 cup butter or margarine
      1 cup brown sugar
      1/4 cup corn syrup
      1 teaspoon vanilla

3. Microwave on high for 3 minutes.

4. Add 1/2 teaspoon baking soda and stir with a fork until well-blended (it will appear foamy).

5. Microwave another 90 seconds.

6. Pour over the popcorn. Toss well with a pair of wooden spoons or salad tongs to blend. (You can spread it out on wax paper to cool - this helps keep it from becoming a big bowl-shaped blob).

Optional: add a couple handfuls of peanuts or cashews.