Caramel Corn

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup molasses

3 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons vinegar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

2 1/2 to 3 quarts popped corn

1.Pre heat oven to 250 degrees F.

2.Lightly butter a large mixing bowl and fill with the popcorn

3.Combine sugar, water, molasses, butter vinegar and salt in a heavy saucepan. Cook over medium high heat to 260 degrees F (hard crack) or if you don't have a thermometer, until a small amount forms a hard ball when dropped into ice water.

4.Remove from heat and stir in the baking soda.  The mixture will bubble up and look creamy. Pour it over the popcorn and stir to coat. Spread on a lightly greased rimmed cookie sheet.

5.Bake at 250 degrees F. for about 20 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely.