Ingredients
Scale
Popcorn Base
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- Ensure all unpopped kernels are removed
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 2 cups packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
Marshmallow Mixture
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Pop the Corn: Start by popping your popcorn kernels using an air popper or stovetop method without oil or butter to keep the popcorn light and crispy. Set aside in a large mixing bowl, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels for the perfect crunchy texture.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the brown sugar and light corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil without stirring, allowing it to cook and thicken for about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Enhance the Caramel: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. This step lightens the caramel texture and adds depth to its flavor.
- Combine Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows to the warm caramel and gently stir until they begin to melt and incorporate, creating the signature gooeyness.
- Coat the Popcorn: Pour the marshmallow caramel mixture over the popcorn and carefully fold until the popcorn is evenly coated. Make sure every piece receives the delicious coating.
- Bake to Set: Spread the coated popcorn evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. This ensures the caramel sets and the popcorn attains a perfectly crunchy finish.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, let the Marshmallow Caramel Corn cool completely before breaking it into pieces to allow the coating to firm up and facilitate easy handling.
Notes
- Use Fresh Popcorn: Freshly popped popcorn ensures better coating and crunch.
- Watch the Caramel Carefully: Avoid overcooking the caramel to prevent bitterness.
- Stir Gently: Mixing carefully keeps the popcorn from breaking and maintains fluffy marshmallow pockets.
- Even Spread on Baking Sheet: Use a wide baking tray to spread popcorn evenly for consistent baking.
- Cool Completely Before Storing: Prevents clumping and keeps your Marshmallow Caramel Corn fresh longer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: marshmallow caramel corn, caramel popcorn, sweet snack, crunchy snack, party snack, homemade caramel corn, marshmallow popcorn