Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe

If you love the perfect blend of sweet, sticky, and crunchy snack magic, the Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe will become your ultimate go-to treat. This irresistible combination of buttery caramel and melty marshmallows envelopes every kernel of popcorn in a delightful harmony of gooey sweetness and crisp texture. Whether it’s movie night, a party, or just a cozy afternoon craving, this recipe brings a warm, nostalgic twist that’s downright addictive and incredibly easy to whip up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your hands on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step to making the magic of this Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe happen. Each component is essential—not only for the rich, buttery caramel but also for the perfect chewy finish and crunchy popcorn base that makes each bite unforgettable.

• 12 cups popped popcorn: Make sure your popcorn is fresh and free of unpopped kernels to keep every bite crispy.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: This provides that luscious base flavor and smooth caramel texture.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds deep, rich sweetness with a hint of molasses that caramel lovers adore.
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup: Keeps the caramel from crystallizing and ensures it’s perfectly sticky and smooth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the mix.
• 10 large marshmallows: These melt down to create a wonderfully gooey texture and extra sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, rounding out the caramel’s flavor beautifully.

How to Make Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This simple prep step ensures your popcorn can bake evenly without sticking, setting the stage for a perfectly balanced treat.

Step 2: Popcorn Ready

Place 12 cups of freshly popped popcorn into a large bowl, making sure to remove any pesky unpopped kernels. This keeps the texture consistent and enjoyable throughout.

Step 3: Melt the Butter

Over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan. This is where the gooey goodness begins! Butter not only carries the caramel flavor but also gives that rich mouthfeel we all crave.

Step 4: Combine Sugar and Syrup

Add 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup light corn syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the melted butter. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil. These ingredients come together to create the classic caramel backbone of this recipe.

Step 5: Boil Without Stirring

Let the caramel boil for about 5 minutes without stirring. This step is crucial to develop the right texture and thickness for coating the popcorn just perfectly.

Step 6: Melt Marshmallows In

Add 10 large marshmallows to the boiling caramel mixture and stir continuously until they melt completely. The marshmallows add a unique, tender dimension to the caramel, making this Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe delightfully gooey and soft.

Step 7: Stir in Vanilla

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This subtle but important addition enhances the overall aroma and flavor of your caramel creation.

Step 8: Coat the Popcorn

Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popcorn. Use a spatula to fold and gently mix until every kernel has a glossy caramel coating. Patience here means every bite is bursting with sweetness!

Step 9: Spread and Bake

Spread your caramel-coated popcorn evenly across the prepared baking sheet. Baking at a low temperature for 15 minutes allows the caramel to set smoothly, giving that irresistible crunchy coating.

Step 10: Stir and Bake Again

Take the popcorn out, stir it to prevent clumping, then return it to the oven for another 15 minutes. This extra bake time ensures every kernel is coated and crisped just right, achieving that perfect balance of chewy and crunchy textures.

Step 11: Cool Completely

Remove from the oven and allow the popcorn to cool fully on the baking sheet. As it cools, the caramel hardens slightly, making the clusters easier to break into the ideal snack-sized chunks.

Step 12: Enjoy or Store

Serve right away for the freshest experience, or store in an airtight container to keep that crunchy caramel deliciousness intact for later snacking.

How to Serve Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe

Garnishes

While the Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe is fantastic on its own, you can elevate it with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes or a dusting of cinnamon for a hint of warmth. Adding chopped nuts like pecans or almonds can also bring a lovely crunch contrast that’s both tasty and visually appealing.

Side Dishes

This sweet snack pairs beautifully alongside a hot cup of cocoa or your favorite coffee, making it a superb companion for chilly evenings. If serving at a party, consider placing it near a cheese board or fresh fruit to balance the sweetness with some savory and fresh bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, present your caramel corn in colorful paper cones, clear jars tied with ribbons, or decorative bowls. Layer it with mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent dessert delight that guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe fresh by transferring leftovers to an airtight container once completely cooled. Stored at room temperature, it will maintain its crisp and chewy texture for up to a week, perfect for spontaneous snacking.

Freezing

If you want to keep this treat longer, freeze your caramel corn in a sealed freezer bag or container. It can last up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture. Just make sure to thaw it fully at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To revive any softened caramel corn, gently reheat it in a low oven (about 250°F/120°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This brings back the delightful crispness without melting all the caramel away.

FAQs

Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to choose a plain, lightly salted microwave popcorn to avoid extra butter or flavors that might clash with the caramel coating.

What if I don’t have corn syrup? Is there a substitute?

You can substitute light corn syrup with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind this might slightly change the flavor and texture of the caramel.

How do I prevent the caramel from getting too hard?

Don’t overbake the popcorn and be sure to spread it evenly. The marshmallows help keep caramel softer, so following the timing closely results in the ideal chewy-crisp balance.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes! Chopped nuts can be added before baking for extra crunch, and chocolate chips can be sprinkled on top after baking while the caramel is still warm to melt slightly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free popcorn and check that all ingredients like marshmallows and corn syrup are gluten-free certified.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe enough for anyone who enjoys a sweet and crunchy snack that feels like a hug in food form. It’s straightforward, fun to make, and absolutely perfect for any occasion where you want to wow your friends, family, or just treat yourself. Give it a try and watch how quickly this delightful snack disappears!

Print