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+ servings
This is our family's favorite soft caramel corn recipe. It's chewy and gooey, and completely irresistible!

Soft and Chewy Caramel Popcorn

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This is the best soft and gooey caramel popcorn. This recipe makes a super BIG batch, perfect for a crowd! If desired, feel free cut this recipe in half.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 24 servings
Calories 274
Author Annalise

Ingredients

  • 1 cup popcorn kernels (see Notes)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 ½ cups light or dark brown sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • You can pop popcorn per your preference (see recipe article for suggestions). I prefer to use a stovetop popper.
  • Line 2-3 large sheet pans with wax paper and top with popped popcorn.
  • Combine, the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until butter is melted and mixture is smooth. Increase the heat to medium high and bring to a boil.
  • Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. The mixture should turn a darker color.
  • Remove from heat and add the sweetened condensed milk, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth. Pour caramel sauce over the popcorn and stir to evenly coat the popcorn (recruit a helper if needed!).
  • The caramel popcorn is best served immediately, but you can also store it in an airtight container for up to several days.

Video

Notes

NOTES:
  • You'll need approximately 8 quarts of popped popcorn (32 cups). If using microwave popcorn, you'll need 3 regular-size popped bags.
  • If using microwave popcorn, make sure it is plain or lightly salted.
  • Make sure to remove all unpopped kernels from popcorn before combining with caramel.
  • You can also use an XL bowl to combine caramel popcorn.

Nutrition

Calories: 274kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Sodium: 135mg | Potassium: 113mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 42g | Vitamin A: 281IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 71mg | Iron: 1mg