Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Marshmallow Caramel Corn is a delicious mix of two beloved treats: caramel popcorn and marshmallow treats. The sticky, sweet caramel coats every kernel of popcorn, while the marshmallow gives it a chewy, gooey texture that adds extra sweetness and fun. It’s a great combination of crunchy and chewy, with a rich caramel flavor that will have you going back for more. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, this snack is sure to be a favorite in your home!

Ingredients

12 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the popcorn:

Pop your popcorn using your preferred method—whether it’s stovetop, microwave, or air-popper. Once popped, place the popcorn in a large bowl, ensuring it’s fully prepared and free from any unpopped kernels.

2. Make the caramel:

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
Let it boil for 4-5 minutes without stirring. Be careful not to let it burn. After the boiling time, remove the saucepan from heat.

3. Add marshmallows and baking soda:

Stir the marshmallows into the caramel mixture. Keep stirring until they melt completely and the caramel becomes smooth and creamy.
Stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The baking soda will cause the mixture to bubble up, so be cautious.

4. Coat the popcorn:

Immediately pour the marshmallow caramel mixture over the prepared popcorn. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently stir and coat the popcorn evenly with the caramel mixture. Make sure every piece is well coated.

5. Cool the caramel corn:

Allow the marshmallow caramel corn to cool for about 10 minutes in the bowl, then transfer it to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the popcorn out into an even layer.
If you prefer your caramel corn to have a crunchy texture, let it sit uncovered for a few hours or place it in the fridge for about 30 minutes.

6. Serve and enjoy:

Once the caramel corn has cooled and set, break it into pieces and serve. Enjoy the sweet, chewy, crunchy goodness of this irresistible treat!

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 10-12 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes (including cooling time)

Variations

Add Nuts: Add chopped peanuts, almonds, or cashews to the popcorn before pouring the caramel mixture over it for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle Chocolate: For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate (dark, milk, or white) over the cooled caramel corn for a chocolatey finish.
Add Sprinkles: For a festive touch, sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on top of the caramel corn before it sets.
Salted Caramel: For a salted caramel flavor, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the finished caramel corn.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover marshmallow caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. It will stay soft and delicious.
Freezing: You can freeze the caramel corn for up to 1 month. Simply place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows, but mini marshmallows tend to melt more evenly and quickly, making the caramel smoother. If using regular marshmallows, just be sure to stir well as they melt.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this marshmallow caramel corn ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days, making it a great make-ahead treat for parties or holidays.

Can I use a microwave instead of a stovetop?

Yes, you can use the microwave for the caramel. Place the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the mixture is bubbly and smooth. Then, follow the same steps to add the marshmallows and baking soda.

Can I add other flavors to the caramel corn?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors like adding cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or even a little peanut butter to the caramel mixture for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Marshmallow Caramel Corn is a fun, easy, and irresistibly sweet treat that’s perfect for sharing. The combination of gooey marshmallows, rich caramel, and crunchy popcorn creates a delightful snack that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re making it for a party, a movie night, or just a snack, this recipe is simple to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy this nostalgic, indulgent treat with family and friends!