The Best Homemade Caramel Popcorn Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade caramel popcorn recipe is a treat you’ll want to make again and again! The sweet, buttery caramel coating is perfectly sticky, and the popcorn stays crispy, making it a crowd-pleaser. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up with just a few pantry staples, and the smell of caramel filling your kitchen is pure magic. Plus, it’s a fun activity to make with family or friends, and you can customize it with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate drizzle. Finally, it’s a budget-friendly snack that’s way better than store-bought—once you try it, you’ll never go back!
Recipe
Making homemade caramel popcorn is a fun and rewarding treat that combines the crunch of popcorn with the sweet, buttery goodness of caramel. This recipe is simple to follow and yields a delicious snack perfect for movie nights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unpopped popcorn kernels
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Pop the popcorn kernels using your preferred method (stovetop, microwave, or air popper) and remove any unpopped kernels. Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and let it boil for about 2 minutes without stirring.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up slightly.
- Immediately pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn, using a rubber spatula to coat evenly.
- Spread the caramel-coated popcorn onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to guarantee even baking.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Break apart any large clumps before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For a nutty twist, add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds before baking.
Equipment
THING NEED IN RECIPE ARE:
- Large bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
Serves 4-6
Nutrition
Caramel popcorn is a delicious snack, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:
| Calories | Total Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Cholesterol (mg) | Sodium (mg) | Carbohydrates (g) | Sugars (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220 | 8 | 5 | 10 | 160 | 35 | 25 | 3 |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade caramel popcorn with a cold drink like iced tea or lemonade—it balances the sweetness perfectly. For an extra treat, I’ll add some chocolate-covered pretzels or fresh fruit like strawberries. Trust me, it’s the perfect combo for movie night or a casual snack.
Cold Beverages
Nothing complements the sweet, crunchy goodness of homemade caramel popcorn like an revitalizing cold beverage to balance it out. I love pairing it with a tall glass of iced tea—unsweetened or lightly sweetened—to cut through the richness. Lemonade is another favorite; its tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the popcorn’s sweetness. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll go for a cold, fizzy soda like ginger ale or cream soda. On warmer days, a chilled fruit smoothie feels energizing and indulgent. Whatever I choose, the cold drink contrasts beautifully with the warm, buttery caramel, making every bite even more satisfying.
Sweet Treats Pairing
While cold beverages make a great match for caramel popcorn, there’s something extra special about pairing it with other sweet treats. I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the creaminess balances the crunch perfectly. Chocolate-dipped pretzels or a plate of gooey brownie bites are another favorite of mine; they add variety without stealing the show. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll include mini marshmallows or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the popcorn itself. These combinations turn a simple snack into a dessert spread that feels indulgent but still lets the caramel popcorn shine.
