Sweet & Salty Bliss: Chocolate-Covered Popcorn

Sunday, January 19 is National Popcorn Day! Popcorn is a classic go-to snack that we can all enjoy. There are so many ways to indulge in popcorn, from different seasonings or salts to add a twist, to flavored butter, cheese, caramel, and many more.

Here's a fun way to add chocolate and turn it into a trail mix to take on the go!

Start with prepared popcorn - whether you make it on the stove, use a microwave bag, or start with your favorite snack bag. Spread the popcorn out on wax paper or parchment paper.

Next, select your chocolate. My favorite is dark chocolate. You can use a chocolate bar, gourmet flavored chocolate to add another flavor dimension, or one of the easiest options - chocolate chips. Note: if you use a candy bar, break it up before melting. I recommend melting the chocolate slowly in the microwave to avoid burning it. To melt in the microwave, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval. To be extra careful, reduce the power on your microwave and watch it carefully all chocolate melts at a different rate.

Before adding the chocolate to the popcorn, you can add extra treats.

Here are some ideas:

• Candy Pieces - M&Ms (original or peanut), Reese's Pieces

• Nuts - peanuts, pecans, almonds, cashews, macadamia (my favorites are cashews or macadamia nuts)

• Dried Fruit - cherries, mango, etc.

• Shredded Coconut

• Other favorites - chips, white chocolate, butterscotch

• I have even seen bacon pieces mixed in for more salty finish.

If you choose any add-ins, mix them with the popcorn on the paper before drizzling the chocolate.

Now for the fun part - drizzling the melted chocolate! There's no correct way; I use a small spoon and drizzle it over the popcorn to achieve the desired coverage. I personally prefer a light drizzle rather than full coverage, especially when I've added other goodies to my mix.

Note: You can use multiple drizzles - white chocolate and butterscotch are great combinations!

Let it dry completely, then break it up. Store in a sealed container or zip-lock bag to maintain freshness.

Enjoy!