Easy Caramel Popcorn Recipe: Sweet and Crunchy Homemade Treat

Delicious Caramel Popcorn: A Sweet & Crunchy Movie Night Snack

Caramel popcorn is sweet, crunchy, and irresistible, and this easy recipe makes a generous batch using pantry staples you probably have on hand.

Ingredients for Homemade Caramel Popcorn

• 5 quarts popped popcorn
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Caramel Popcorn (Step-by-Step)

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. Place the popped popcorn in a very large bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Allow to boil for 4–5 minutes without stirring until it reaches a light caramel color.
5. Remove from heat. Quickly stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract; the mixture will foam up.
6. Pour the hot caramel sauce over the popcorn. Use a silicone spatula to gently toss until all the popcorn is coated.
7. Divide the coated popcorn between the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 1 hour, stirring and rotating sheets every 15 minutes for even crisping.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheets. Break into bite-size clusters before serving.

Tips & Variations for the Best Crunchy Caramel Popcorn

• Use freshly popped corn: Pop kernels just before coating to maximize crunch.
• Add mix-ins: Stir in peanuts, almonds, or M&M’s for extra flavor and texture.
• Chocolate drizzle: Once cooled, melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over clusters.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 253 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 24 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Sodium: 340 mg
• Cholesterol: 24 mg

Enjoy every sweet, crunchy bite of this homemade caramel popcorn.

Credit: Allrecipes Caramel Popcorn Recipe