Easy Microwave Caramel Corn – An Old Fashioned Treat
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious caramel corn recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This Microwave Caramel Corn is a no-fuss way to make a classic sweet-and-salty treat without the need for a candy thermometer or hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a movie night, a holiday gathering, or just a snack for yourself, this recipe will be your go-to!
I got this recipe from my Dad who I believe got it out of the newspaper. It was cited from a man named O. Edlund, Round Lake Beach, IL.
Why You’ll Love This Microwave Caramel Corn Recipe
- Quick & Easy: No stovetop stirring for hours—just a few minutes in the microwave!
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that you likely already have.
- Perfectly Crunchy: Coated in rich, buttery caramel and easy to break into bite-sized pieces.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts like pecans, almonds, or peanuts for extra crunch!
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels (popped)
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup light Karo syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Cooking spray (for bag)
- Optional: 1 cup nuts (pecans, almonds, or peanuts)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn
- Pop 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels using an air popper or stovetop method. You should end up with about 12-14 cups of popcorn.
- Lightly spray a large paper grocery bag with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the popped popcorn (and nuts, if using) inside the bag.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
- In a microwave-safe dish, combine:
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup light Karo syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Microwave the mixture on high until it comes to a boil (about 2 minutes).
- Stir well, then microwave for another 2 minutes.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon baking soda and stir well—this will make the caramel lighter and easier to coat the popcorn.
Step 3: Coat & Microwave the Popcorn
- Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popcorn in the bag.
- Fold the top of the bag and shake vigorously to coat the popcorn evenly.
- Microwave the bag on high for 30 seconds, then shake well.
- Microwave again for 1 minute, then shake again.
- Let the caramel corn cool slightly, then spread it out on parchment paper to cool completely.
- Once cooled, break into bite-sized pieces and enjoy!
Storage Tips
- Store your caramel corn in an airtight container for up to 1 week to keep it fresh and crunchy.
- If it becomes sticky, you can re-crisp it by spreading it on a baking sheet and warming it in a 250°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
Variations & Add-Ins
- Nutty Caramel Corn: Add pecans, almonds, or peanuts for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate for a gourmet touch.
- Spiced Caramel Corn: Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
- Sea Salt Caramel: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before cooling for a sweet-salty balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use microwave popcorn instead of air-popped popcorn?
A: Yes, but make sure it’s plain or lightly salted. Avoid butter-flavored popcorn as it may alter the taste.
Q: How do I prevent my caramel corn from sticking together?
A: Shake well after each microwaving step, and be sure to spread it out to cool before storing.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to use a large enough bag and adjust the microwaving time as needed.
This Microwave Caramel Corn is the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and buttery goodness. With just a few minutes of prep, you can whip up a delicious homemade snack that’s way better than store-bought caramel corn. Try it today and let us know how it turns out!
For more delicious recipes and baking tips, be sure to follow me on social media. Stay tuned for more sweet treats and kitchen adventures!
If you liked this recipe check out: Apple Cider Donut Muffins
I hope you enjoyed this recipe, let me know how yours turned out in the comments!
-Hailee
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VISIT OUR JOURNEY TO HOME’S WALMART STOREFRONT
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Mixing Bowls | Cordless Hand Mixer | Spatula | Baking Sheet | Danish Dough Whisk | Popcorn Popper
Easy Microwave Caramel Corn – An Old Fashioned Treat
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels popped
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup light Karo syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Cooking spray for bag
- Optional: 1 cup nuts pecans, almonds, or peanuts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn
- Pop 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels using an air popper or stovetop method. You should end up with about 12-14 cups of popcorn.
- Lightly spray a large paper grocery bag with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the popped popcorn (and nuts, if using) inside the bag.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
- In a microwave-safe dish, combine:
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup light Karo syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Microwave the mixture on high until it comes to a boil (about 2 minutes).
- Stir well, then microwave for another 2 minutes.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon baking soda and stir well—this will make the caramel lighter and easier to coat the popcorn.
Step 3: Coat & Microwave the Popcorn
- Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popcorn in the bag.
- Fold the top of the bag and shake vigorously to coat the popcorn evenly.
- Microwave the bag on high for 30 seconds, then shake well.
- Microwave again for 1 minute, then shake again.
- Let the caramel corn cool slightly, then spread it out on parchment paper to cool completely.
- Once cooled, break into bite-sized pieces and enjoy!