This homemade caramel corn is the perfect mix of buttery, sweet, and salty. Great for movie nights, parties, or gifting in cute jars!
📝 Ingredients:
✅ 10 cups popped popcorn (about ½ cup unpopped kernels)
✅ 1 cup 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 It:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2️⃣ Pop the Popcorn:
Pop the popcorn using your preferred method (stovetop, microwave, or air popper). Remove any unpopped kernels and place the popcorn in a large bowl.
3️⃣ Make the Caramel Sauce:
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. Let it boil for 4-5 minutes without stirring.
4️⃣ Finish the Caramel:
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up—this is normal!
5️⃣ Coat the Popcorn:
Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and gently toss until evenly coated. Spread the coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet.
6️⃣ Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even baking and prevent clumping.
7️⃣ Cool & Break Apart:
Let the caramel corn cool completely on the baking sheet. Break it into pieces and store in an airtight container.
💡 Tip: Add a sprinkle of sea salt or a handful of nuts for extra flavor!
