microwave caramel corn recipe

microwave caramel corn recipe

The Best microwave caramel corn recipe

I love making caramel corn in the microwave because it’s so easy and quick. My kids can help me with this recipe, and they always get a kick out of watching the caramel melt and the popcorn kernels pop.

This recipe is perfect for a family movie night or a game day snack. We like to make a big batch and serve it in a large bowl.

The best part is that it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought caramel corn, which is often loaded with artificial ingredients and preservatives. By making it at home, we can control the ingredients and amount of sugar used.

My kids are always asking for this recipe, and I’m happy to oblige because it’s such a fun and tasty treat. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and I’ve tweaked it over time to get the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.

The key to this recipe is using the right type of popcorn – I like to use a combination of yellow and white kernels for the best flavor. Once you’ve popped the popcorn, you can add the caramel mixture and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

This recipe makes a big batch, but you can easily halve or quarter the ingredients if you need less. I also like to customize this recipe by adding in some nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.

Microwave Caramel Corn

Microwave Caramel Corn

4.9 from 1772 votes

This quick microwave caramel corn recipe delivers crunchy, sweet clusters in minutes. It is perfect for snacking or gifting, with a simple caramel coating that hardens as it cools.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time8 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time13 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Caramel Corn

8 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/3 cup unpopped kernels)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the popped popcorn in a large microwave-safe bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.
Set aside.
2In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt.
3Microwave on high for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
4Stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract.
5The mixture will bubble and foam slightly.
6Pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn and stir gently with a spatula until all popcorn is evenly coated.
7Microwave the coated popcorn on high for 1 minute.
8Stir well, then microwave for another 1 minute.
9Repeat this process for a total of 3 to 4 minutes, stirring after each minute, until the caramel is bubbly and the popcorn is evenly glazed.
10Spread the caramel corn onto a baking sheet or wax paper to cool.
11Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes until the caramel hardens.
12Break into clusters before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large microwave-safe bowl (at least 3-quart capacity)
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Baking sheet or wax paper for cooling

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 9g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 220mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For best results, use fresh popcorn and stir well after each microwave interval to prevent burning. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Microwave Caramel Corn Works

I always keep a stash of homemade caramel corn on hand because it’s such an easy snack to grab when we’re heading out or when we’re just looking for something tasty after dinner.

You can store any leftover caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days – just be sure to give it a good stir before serving so that all of the ingredients are well combined.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Microwave Caramel Corn

Q: What type of popcorn is best for this recipe?

I prefer using a combination of yellow and white popcorn kernels for this recipe. The yellow kernels give the popcorn a slightly sweet flavor, while the white kernels provide a more neutral taste.

Q: Can I use regular butter instead of browned butter?

While you can use regular butter if that’s all you have on hand, I highly recommend taking the extra step to brown the butter before adding it to the caramel mixture. Browning the butter gives it a nuttier, more complex flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramel perfectly.

Q: How do I know when the caramel is ready?

The caramel is ready when it turns a deep amber color and has thickened slightly. This should take about 30-45 seconds in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it – you want it to be smooth and creamy, not burnt.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can make this recipe up to 24 hours in advance, but be sure to store it in an airtight container at room temperature until serving.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

No, this recipe contains browned butter, which is not vegan-friendly. However, you can easily substitute in some vegan-friendly alternatives like coconut oil or almond milk-based butter substitutes.

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