Inspired by the traditional holiday garland, this recipe turns a medley of good-for-you ingredients into a delicious cinnamon-scented treat. Boasting fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, it's wholesome enough to please parents and tasty enough to distract kids from all those candy canes.

Ingredients

• 8 cups freshly popped corn
• 1 cup walnuts, toasted at 350° for 5 minutes
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• Pinch of baking soda
• 1 cup dried cranberries

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 300°. Grease a large, rimmed baking sheet. Mix the popcorn and nuts in a large, well-oiled bowl.

2. Bring the syrup, cinnamon, and salt to a boil in a small pot set over medium heat. Let the mixture boil for 4 minutes, swirling the pan occasionally. Turn off the heat and add the baking soda, stirring until the mixture is creamy. Pour the mixture over the popcorn and stir well.

3. Spread the popcorn on the baking sheet and bake until it's dry to the touch, about 15 minutes. Let the popcorn cool for 20 minutes, then mix in the cranberries and serve.
   
   Did you know?
   Popcorn supplies the highest level of antioxidants of any whole-grain snack.

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• Christmas |
• Cranberries |
• Earth Day |
• Healthy Snacks |
• Walnuts

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• Healthy Snacks |
• Appetizers & Snacks |
• December / January 2010 |
• New This Year |
• Cranberry Recipes |
• Earth Day Recipes