Easy Microwave Caramel Corn – An Old Fashioned Treat
Servings: 12 cups
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!