microwave caramel popcorn recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best microwave caramel popcorn recipe

I have been making this microwave caramel popcorn recipe for years and it is always a hit in my house. My kids love it for movie nights and I love how quick and easy it is to make. No need for a stove or oven just a microwave and a few simple ingredients.

This recipe gives you that perfect sweet and crunchy snack without any complicated steps. This caramel popcorn is perfect for any occasion from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. It is also a great treat for after school snacks or when you are craving something sweet.

The best part is that you can control the ingredients so you can make it a bit healthier if you want. I often use less sugar or add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. I remember the first time I tried making caramel popcorn on the stove it was a sticky mess.

The microwave version is so much easier and the results are just as good. The popcorn comes out crispy and coated in a rich buttery caramel sauce. It is a foolproof method that even my teenager can handle without any help.

This recipe is also great for meal prep because it stays fresh in an airtight container for days. I like to make a big batch on Sunday and we snack on it throughout the week. It is a crowd pleaser and always gets compliments.

If you have never tried microwave caramel popcorn you are missing out on a simple and delicious treat.

Easy Microwave Caramel Popcorn

Easy Microwave Caramel Popcorn

4.7 from 1701 votes

This microwave caramel popcorn is a quick and easy snack that is perfect for movie nights or parties. It has a sweet and buttery caramel coating that is crunchy and delicious.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 8 cupsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Popcorn

1/2 cup unpopped popcorn kernels
1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Caramel Coating

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the popcorn kernels and vegetable oil in a large microwave safe bowl.
2Cover the bowl with a microwave safe plate or a paper towel.
3Microwave on high for 2 to 4 minutes or until the popping slows to 2 seconds between pops.
4Carefully remove the bowl and set aside.
5In a separate microwave safe bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt.
6Microwave on high for 2 minutes.
7Stir the mixture well and microwave for another 2 minutes until it is bubbling and smooth.
8Stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract.
9The mixture will foam up slightly.
10Immediately pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn and stir gently with a spatula until all the popcorn is evenly coated.
11Spread the coated popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12Let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes until the caramel sets and the popcorn becomes crunchy.
13Break into clusters and serve.

🔧Equipment

Large microwave safe bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Baking sheet
Parchment paper

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 300mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

For a healthier version, you can use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil and reduce the brown sugar to 3/4 cup. Make sure to use a large enough bowl for the popcorn to prevent overflow.

Watch Video Of How Easy Microwave Caramel Popcorn Works

This microwave caramel popcorn is a fantastic snack that you can make in no time. I always keep the ingredients on hand for when we need a quick treat.

It is perfect for family movie nights or for sharing at potlucks and parties. To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and they will stay fresh for up to a week.

If the popcorn loses its crunch, you can reheat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to crisp it up again. I like to serve it in a big bowl for everyone to grab handfuls.

It is a simple recipe that never fails to bring smiles.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Microwave Caramel Popcorn

1. Can I use pre-popped microwave popcorn for this recipe?

Yes, you can use plain pre-popped microwave popcorn. Just make sure it is unsalted and unbuttered for the best results. You will need about 8 cups of popped popcorn.

2. How do I store leftover caramel popcorn?

Store the caramel popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure it is completely cool before storing to keep it crunchy.

3. Why did my caramel popcorn turn out chewy instead of crunchy?

If your caramel popcorn is chewy, it likely did not cook long enough. Make sure to microwave the caramel mixture for the full 4 minutes total and let the popcorn cool completely on the baking sheet before eating.

4. Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this recipe?

Absolutely. You can add 1/2 cup of peanuts, almonds, or cashews after you coat the popcorn with caramel. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty flavor.

5. Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes, this microwave caramel popcorn recipe is gluten free as long as you use certified gluten free popcorn and corn syrup. Check all ingredient labels to be sure.

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