Popcorn Pretzel Bars

Popcorn Pretzel Bars

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 12 cups Plain popped popcorn (from ½ cup kernels or 2 microwave packages)
• 4 cups Coarsely chopped small salted pretzels
• 1 cup Toasted almonds, chopped
• 2 cups Sugar
• 1 tsp Kosher salt, plus more for sprinkling
• ⅔ cup Heavy cream
• 2 cups Miniature marshmallows
• ¼ cup Spirits & Spice White Chocolate Ancho Sugar

Use nonstick cooking spray to coat a 9 x 13″ baking dish.  Toss together popcorn, almonds and pretzels in a large bowl.  In a medium saucepan, bring sugar, 1 tsp salt, and ½ cup water to a boil over medium high.  Boil without disturbing until mixture is amber in color (about 8-12 minutes).  Remove pan from heat and slowly pour in cream (mixture will sputter).  Immediately add marshmallows and stir until melted.

Pour caramel mixture over popcorn and pretzels and quickly stir with a rubber spatula to coat.  Transfer mixture to dish and use dampened hands to press the mixture into the pan.  Sprinkle with a heavy dose of kosher salt and the White Chocolate Ancho Sugar.  Let cool completely then cut into bars and enjoy!