Craving a quick and irresistible treat? This Microwave Caramel Popcorn recipe is your go-to solution for a sweet, buttery, and crunchy snack made with minimal effort. With just a handful of simple pantry staples like popcorn kernels, brown sugar, unsalted butter, and light corn syrup, you can whip up a batch of caramel-coated perfection in under 15 minutes. The recipe features a foolproof microwave method, so no stovetop mess or candy thermometers are needed! A touch of vanilla and a pinch of baking soda give this caramel its velvety texture and deep, rich flavor, while an optional sprinkle of salt brings out the perfect balance of sweetness. Ideal for movie nights, parties, or an indulgent snack, this homemade caramel popcorn offers all the charm of gourmet popcorn with ultimate convenience.
Place 1/3 cup of popcorn kernels in a large, microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or vented microwave splatter cover.
Microwave on high for 2–4 minutes, or until the popping slows to one pop every 2–3 seconds. Carefully remove from the microwave (bowl will be hot) and set aside.
In another microwave-safe bowl, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons light corn syrup. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir to combine.
Return to the microwave and heat for an additional 1–2 minutes until the mixture is bubbling. Carefully remove from the microwave and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, and (optional) 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn, stirring quickly to coat the popcorn evenly before the caramel hardens.
Once well-coated, spread the caramel popcorn onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes.
Break apart any clumps, serve, and enjoy your homemade caramel popcorn!
Calories |
954 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 49.7 g | 64% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.2 g | 141% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 124 mg | 41% | |
| Sodium | 902 mg | 39% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 129.3 g | 47% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.4 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 99.3 g | ||
| Protein | 4.8 g | 10% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 76 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 1.6 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 227 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.