Old Fashioned Caramel Popcorn in the Microwave
Transform snack time with this easy and irresistible Old Fashioned Caramel Popcorn made right in your microwave! This quick recipe delivers perfectly crunchy, sweet-and-salty caramel popcorn using pantry staples like brown sugar, butter, and light corn syrup. A touch of baking soda creates that signature airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while vanilla adds a warm, nostalgic flavor. Ready in just 15 minutes, this microwave-friendly version of the classic treat combines convenience with gourmet results—no stovetop required! Perfect for movie nights, gatherings, or gifting, this caramel popcorn can be made in bulk and stored for up to a week. Indulge in the simplicity of a timeless favorite with modern microwave magic!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Popcorn kernels
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup Light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Instructions
Pop the popcorn kernels using a microwave popcorn maker or a brown paper bag. Set the popped popcorn aside in a large microwave-safe bowl, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the brown sugar, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and salt. Microwave the mixture on high for 1 minute, then stir well to combine.
Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for an additional 2–3 minutes, stopping to stir every 30 seconds, until the mixture is bubbling and the sugar is completely dissolved.
Carefully remove the hot caramel mixture and stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam up slightly, so stir quickly and evenly.
Pour the caramel over the popped popcorn and toss with a wooden spoon or spatula until all the popcorn is evenly coated.
Place the caramel-coated popcorn in the microwave and heat for 1–2 minutes in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval. This step helps the caramel adhere to the popcorn and ensures a crisp texture.
Spread the caramel popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely.
Break the cooled caramel popcorn into clusters and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1324 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 50.3 g | 64% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.3 g | 142% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 124 mg | 41% | |
| Sodium | 1556 mg | 68% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 223.8 g | 81% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.5 g | 27% | |
| Total Sugars | 185.8 g | ||
| Protein | 6.4 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 138 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 374 mg | 8% | |
*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.
