1- Begin by preheating your oven to 225°F (107°C) and popping the popcorn according to the package instructions. This sets the stage for that irresistible candy coating that makes this snack stand out.

2- First, prepare your workspace by measuring out all the ingredients and lightly buttering a roasting pan to warm the popped popcorn. Melt most of the butter in a heavy pan over medium heat, then stir in the red cinnamon hard candies, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and salt. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it cook for 5 minutes to create a glossy glaze.

3- After boiling, remove the pan from heat and quickly mix in the baking soda and optional cinnamon extract. This reaction helps the glaze turn light and bubbly, perfect for coating. Pour the hot glaze over the warm popcorn in the roasting pan, stirring well to cover every piece evenly.

4- Once coated, pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, remembering to stir every 15 minutes for even coverage. For the best results, work fast when pouring the glaze to avoid it setting too quickly, and line the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

5- After baking, give it one more stir, let it cool completely, then break it into pieces and store it right away.