Go Back
Easy Caramel Corn

Easy Caramel Corn

Craving something sweet and crunchy? Try this Easy Caramel Corn. It’s the perfect treat for movie nights, gatherings, or just because! With its irresistible caramel coating and satisfying crunch, you’ll want to make it tonight!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 quarts popcorn
  • 3 cups unsalted mixed nuts optional
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup Karo light or dark corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup margarine or butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Equipment

  • Candy Thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a large shallow roasting pan, combine the popped popcorn and nuts if using. Place in a preheated 250-degree oven while preparing the caramel glaze.
  2. In a heavy 2-quart saucepan, add the brown sugar, Karo syrup, margarine, and salt. Stir these ingredients together until well combined.
  3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. As it heats, watch for the syrup to reach the soft-ball stage, around 234 to 240 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a candy thermometer for precise measurement.
  4. Once the syrup reaches the desired temperature, stop stirring and let it boil undisturbed for five minutes. This is a crucial step, so keep an eye on it!
  5. After the five minutes, remove the pan from heat. Carefully stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up, so do this cautiously!
  6. Pour the caramel over the popcorn mixture in the roasting pan. Use a spatula to stir gently, ensuring every kernel is well-coated with the sweet caramel.
  7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes to promote even coating and crunchiness.
  8. After baking, allow the caramel corn to cool completely before breaking it apart. This will help it to set and become nice and crunchy.
  9. Store your Easy Caramel Corn in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Now, enjoy this sweet treat with family and friends!

Notes

To keep your caramel corn fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature, away from humidity.