CHEX CARAMEL CORN

4 1/2 cups Corn Chex or Rice Chex cereal
4 cups popped Pop Secret microwave popcorn (from 3.5-oz bag)
1/2 cup honey-roasted peanuts, if desired
1/4 cup butter or margarine
6 tablespoons packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
4 or S drops green food color, if desired

In large microwavable bowl, mix cereal, popcorn and peanuts. Set aside.

In medium microwavable bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, corn syrup and vanilla. Microwave uncovered on High about 2 minutes or until mixture is boiling, stirring after 1 minute.

Stir food color into sugar mixture. Pour over cereal mixture, stirring until evenly coated. Microwave uncovered on High 5 to 6 minutes, stirring and scraping bowl after every minute.

Spread on waxed paper until cooled, stirring occasionally to break up. Store in airtight container.

Makes 19 servings (1/2 cup each)
From: Recipelink.com
Source: Recipe booklet: Holiday, Betty Crocker Recipe Magazine, December 2005 #227