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Perfect Caramel Corn Recipe

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4.3 from 11 reviews

This classic Caramel Corn recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and buttery flavors, coated in a rich caramel glaze that’s baked to a crisp finish. Ideal for snacking or gifting, this homemade treat combines popped popcorn with a smooth caramel sauce, baked low and slow for the ultimate texture and flavor.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Popcorn

  • Cooking spray
  • 10 cups plain popped popcorn (remove unpopped kernels)

Caramel Sauce

  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare: Preheat your oven to 225°F. Line a large 15×21-inch cookie sheet or two standard baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Spray a large non-metal mixing bowl with cooking spray to prevent sticking and avoid any metallic taste.
  2. Pop Popcorn: Pop plain popcorn and remove all unpopped kernels. Measure out 10 cups and place in the prepared greased mixing bowl.
  3. Make Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, light corn syrup, brown sugar, salt, and cream of tartar if using. Stir over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Bring to a full rolling boil without stirring, and boil for 5 minutes or until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
  4. Mix Sauce with Popcorn: Remove the caramel sauce from heat. Stir in baking soda and vanilla extract; the mixture will foam up. Quickly pour the foamy caramel over the popcorn and toss with a spatula, stirring for about 2 minutes to coat evenly.
  5. Bake: Spread the coated popcorn in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet(s). Bake at 225°F for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. If using two sheets, rotate them between racks halfway through baking for even cooking.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the caramel corn to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour. The caramel will harden as it cools. Break into clusters and enjoy!

Notes

  • Remove unpopped kernels thoroughly to prevent biting into hard pieces.
  • Cream of tartar in the caramel helps prevent crystallization but is optional.
  • Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature for perfect texture.
  • Store caramel corn in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/perfect-caramel-corn-recipe/