Creamy Caramel Microwave Popcorn
Indulge in a sweet and buttery treat with Creamy Caramel Microwave Popcorn, a quick and easy snack perfect for movie nights or parties. This recipe transforms plain microwave popcorn into a decadent delight with a rich, homemade caramel sauce made right in the microwave. Featuring pantry staples like light brown sugar, unsalted butter, and sweetened condensed milk, this caramel is irresistibly smooth and perfectly coats every kernel for a crowd-pleasing crunch in just 15 minutes. With its balance of salty-sweet flavors, simple preparation, and no-bake convenience, this caramel popcorn will quickly become your favorite go-to snack. Serve in batches for a cozy night in or package it as a thoughtful homemade gift for loved ones!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 bag Microwave popcorn (plain or lightly salted)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 0.5 cup Light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Light corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons Sweetened condensed milk
- 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
Pop the microwave popcorn according to the package instructions. Once done, carefully open the bag, transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl, and set aside. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels.
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and light corn syrup. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir with a heat-resistant spatula.
Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for an additional 1–2 minutes, stopping every 30 seconds to stir until the mixture is bubbly and fully combined.
Carefully stir in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt into the caramel mixture. Microwave for 30–60 seconds more, ensuring the caramel is smooth and creamy.
Immediately pour the hot caramel over the prepared popcorn in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to toss the popcorn, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
Spread the caramel-coated popcorn on a large, parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set for 5–10 minutes.
Once cooled, break the popcorn into clusters and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
356 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 17.7 g | 23% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.8 g | 44% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 34 mg | 11% | |
| Sodium | 227 mg | 10% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50.7 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 37.2 g | ||
| Protein | 2.4 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 40 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 123 mg | 3% | |
*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.
