Description
🍿 Transform your snacking game with this unique blend of caramelized goodness and crunchy Cheetos, bringing sweet and salty perfection in every bite! 🍭
🔥 A quick and fun recipe that’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or satisfying your cravings with an irresistible twist! 😋
Ingredients
1. Light brown sugar (1–2 cups)
2. Butter or margarine (1/2 to 1 cup)
3. Light corn syrup (1/2 cup)
4. Baking soda (1/4 to 1/2 tsp)
5. Cheetos (1 bag, 8-20.5 oz, puffs or crunchy variety)
6. Optional: Dark brown sugar (substitute for light brown sugar)
7. Optional: Coconut oil (substitute for butter)
8. Optional: Sea salt (a pinch, for balance)
9. Optional: Cinnamon or cayenne pepper (a sprinkle, for extra flavor)
10. Optional mix-ins: Nuts (e.g., pecans, almonds, cashews)
11. Optional topping: Melted white or dark chocolate drizzle
12. Optional: Crushed peppermint candies or festive sprinkles
Instructions
1. Prepare your ingredients and equipment: Preheat your oven to 250°F. Line a baking sheet or roasting pan with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Open a bag of Cheetos and place them in a large mixing bowl for easy coating.
2. Make the caramel sauce: In a saucepan over medium to medium-high heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and light corn syrup. Stir frequently until melted and smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil for about 1-5 minutes, then remove from the heat and stir in the baking soda. This will cause the mixture to foam and lighten in color.
3. Coat the Cheetos: Pour the hot caramel over the Cheetos in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss the Cheetos, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Be careful as the caramel will be very hot.
4. Bake for crunchy perfection: Spread the caramel-coated Cheetos evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent clumping.
5. Cool and break into pieces: Remove the caramelized Cheetos from the oven and spread them on parchment paper or a silicone mat to cool completely. Once cooled, break apart any clusters to separate the pieces.
6. Store in an airtight container: Transfer the cooled caramelized Cheetos to an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness. Store at room temperature and enjoy within a week.
Notes
1. Always stir the Cheetos every 15 minutes while baking to prevent clumping and guarantee an even caramel coating on each piece.
2. Make sure to cool the caramelized Cheetos completely on parchment paper to keep them crunchy and avoid sticky clusters when stored.
3. Experiment with different Cheetos varieties like Flamin’ Hot or add mix-ins like nuts for a personalized flavor and texture twist.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Snack
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American