Homemade Caramel Popcorn
JC Phelps
My Homemade Caramel Popcorn is sweet, salty, and crunchy, making it a quick and irresistible treat perfect for snacking or sharing!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 346 kcal
- 10 c. popcorn premade, or about 2 bags popped, carefully sorted and kernels removed
- ½ c. butter
- 1 c. brown sugar
- ¼ c. light corn syrup
- ¼ tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp. baking soda
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the popcorn evenly across the sheet and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, and let it boil for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the baking soda and stir until the caramel becomes light and frothy.
Let the caramel cool slightly, then pour it evenly over the popcorn.
Gently toss the popcorn with a plastic spoon or spatula until evenly coated.
Allow the popcorn to cool completely on the baking sheet.
Break apart any large clusters and enjoy!
- Carefully sort the popcorn to ensure all unpopped kernels are removed before coating it with caramel to avoid any unpleasant surprises while eating.
- Using a candy thermometer can help achieve perfect caramel. Aim for around 250°F (hard-ball stage) to ensure it sets beautifully on the popcorn.
- Work quickly after adding the baking soda, as the caramel will froth and cool rapidly.
- Pour and toss the popcorn promptly for even coating.
- A silicone or non-stick spatula works best for tossing the popcorn.
- Lightly greasing the spatula with cooking spray can help prevent sticking.
- Store the caramel popcorn in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy for up to a week.
Calories: 346kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 3gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.02gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 87mgPotassium: 40mgSugar: 23gVitamin A: 16IUCalcium: 28mgIron: 0.1mg
Keyword Homemade Caramel Popcorn