Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Minute Caramel Popcorn in the Microwave Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 154 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 16 cups popcorn
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Microwaving
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This quick and easy Minute Caramel Popcorn recipe transforms simple popped corn into a sweet, crunchy treat in just minutes using your microwave. Featuring a buttery caramel coating made with brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and a touch of vanilla, this homemade caramel popcorn is perfect for snacking or sharing during movie nights.

Ingredients

Scale

Popcorn

  • 4 quarts of popped popcorn

Caramel Sauce

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup salted butter (1 stick)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Popcorn: Place 4 quarts of freshly popped popcorn into a large clean paper grocery sack, ensuring it is free of any previous residues.
  2. Grease the Baking Sheet: Generously spray a baking sheet with nonstick spray and set aside.
  3. Make the Caramel Sauce: In a 3-quart saucepan, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup salted butter, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 cup light corn syrup. Heat over high heat, stirring frequently until the mixture reaches a rolling boil.
  4. Boil the Mixture: Once boiling, set a timer and let it boil for exactly 1 minute while stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  5. Add Baking Soda: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. The mixture will bubble and foam vigorously—be prepared.
  6. Stir in Vanilla: Add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
  7. Coat the Popcorn: Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popcorn inside the paper bag. Stir gently inside the bag to distribute the caramel evenly.
  8. Microwave the Popcorn (First Cycle): Fold the top of the bag several times to close it tightly. Microwave the bag on high for 1 minute.
  9. Shake the Popcorn: Remove the bag carefully, keeping the top folded, and shake the popcorn vigorously to redistribute the caramel.
  10. Microwave the Popcorn (Second Cycle): Return the folded bag to the microwave and cook for an additional 1 minute on high.
  11. Final Shake: Remove the bag again and shake as much as possible to ensure even coating.
  12. Cool the Popcorn: Pour the caramel-coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet, breaking up any large clumps. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use a clean paper grocery sack to avoid unwanted flavors or contamination.
  • Be careful when handling hot caramel as it can cause burns.
  • Shaking the popcorn thoroughly after each microwave session ensures even caramel coverage and prevents clumping.
  • If you don’t have light corn syrup, you can substitute with an equal amount of golden syrup or honey, but note that texture and flavor might vary slightly.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://easybakekitchen.com/minute-caramel-popcorn-in-the-microwave-recipe/