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Caramel marshmallow popcorn is that snack everyone grabs a handful of before you even set it down. It's sweet and chewy but packs a nice crunch too. Perfect for those get-togethers or whenever you want something a little more sugary than regular corn.
Once, on a snowy day, I made this for friends at a winter bash. Now they ask for it any time we hang out.
Tasty Ingredients
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the caramel and brings a warming scent. Stick with pure for the yummiest results.
- Large marshmallows: They melt down into a gooey mess that holds it all together. Regular size is perfect—you'll need around thirty-five.
- Light corn syrup: Gives that shiny finish and makes sure everything sticks. Use fresh syrup with no gritty bits.
- Brown sugar: Packs a flavor punch and makes it chewy. Soft brown sugar melts great.
- Unsalted butter: Helps the coating glide onto each kernel and deepens the flavor. Real butter is best.
- Popped popcorn: This is what starts it all, so get a fresh batch and toss any hard pieces left at the bottom.
Easy Instructions
- Serve It Up:
- After cooling, break your big chunk of popcorn into clusters. Eat right away, or tuck it into a container so it stays crisp till you want it.
- Set Your Clusters:
- Spread the popcorn over a foil-lined baking tray that’s sprayed with nonstick stuff. Walk away and let it chill for about ten to fifteen minutes.
- Coat the Corn:
- Dump your hot gooey caramel over the popcorn. Toss gently with a spatula from underneath so you don’t crush things—make sure it’s covered all over.
- Add Your Vanilla:
- Take the caramel off the stove. Stir in vanilla fast so that sweet smell goes everywhere.
- Melt the Marshmallows:
- Drop all your marshmallows in at once. Keep stirring low and slow until it’s melted—no lumps left behind.
- Add Brown Sugar and Syrup:
- Stir in brown sugar and pour in your syrup. Mix till it’s all glossy and you don’t see any sugar left.
- Melt Butter in a Pot:
- Toss your butter in a big heavy pot. Gently melt it over medium, don’t let it burn, just melt down smooth.
- Pop That Corn:
- Make your popcorn in a pot or popcorn maker. Get rid of those tough unpopped ones so you don’t chip a tooth later.
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Good Stuff to Remember
- Add chocolate chips or some cashews for a twist—it’s super easy to switch it up
- This sweet snack stays soft, not crispy, for three days if you pack it right
- No need for special tools or tricky steps
Honestly, melted marshmallows make the whole thing. So silky, so sticky but with a soft chew. One time, my nephew and I sprinkled in roasted peanuts—it beat kettle corn by miles. Movie nights don’t work without a huge bowl of this, trust me.
Storing Your Snack
Keep it in airtight containers on a shelf where it won’t go stale. For longer, press it into a zipper bag and squeeze the air out. Skip the fridge—it turns everything chewy.
Swaps for Ingredients
You can use honey or maple syrup if you don’t want corn syrup—the taste changes a little but it’s still sweet. If butter’s not your thing, plant-based blocks do great. There’s even vegan marshmallows that melt just right.
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Serving Ideas
Pour this popcorn mount into a big shiny bowl for a crowd. Wrap up portions in see-through bags with a ribbon for a sweet gift. When it’s movie night, I love tossing in chocolate candies or some crunchy pretzels—watch it vanish fast!
Fun Background
Caramel popcorn goes way back to things like Cracker Jack. This kind changes up the usual cooked caramel for easy, stretchy marshmallow comfort. You’ll spot it at American fairs and on kitchen counters at home. My grandma always said as long as you have popcorn and marshmallows, you’ll never go hungry (or bored).
Common Questions
- → What can I do to keep my popcorn from getting soft?
After mixing, spread your popcorn out on a sheet and wait for it to cool down all the way. Letting it finish drying before putting it away keeps the coating from trapping in extra moisture.
- → Is microwave popcorn OK to use here?
Go ahead—plain or just lightly salted microwave popcorn works. Skip extra buttery or flavored kinds so you don’t lose that sweet caramel vibe.
- → What could I toss in for more crunch or flavor?
Try mini pretzels, a handful of nuts, or even a little melted chocolate on top before it cools off for more texture and fun.
- → Best way to keep marshmallow caramel popcorn fresh?
Just keep it sealed up tight in something airtight at room temp. It’ll taste great and stay crisp for a few days.
- → Can I make this snack the night before?
For sure—make it a day ahead, just seal it up airtight. It’ll stay tasty until you’re ready to share.