Let me share my favorite movie night treat - Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn! This gooey, sticky-sweet snack combines the best of caramel corn and marshmallow treats into one irresistible bowl. It's ready in minutes and always disappears just as quickly!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
What makes this popcorn so special is how it combines two classic treats - caramel corn and marshmallow cereal treats. It's quick, uses just 6 ingredients, and there's no fussy candy thermometers or baking needed. The result is perfectly chewy, buttery, and sweet!
What You'll Need
- The Basics:
- 12 cups popped popcorn (about ½ cup kernels)
- Light brown sugar
- Light corn syrup
- Butter
- The Magic:
- Regular marshmallows
- Pure vanilla extract
Let's Make Some Magic
- Prep Your Popcorn:
- Pick out any unpopped kernels - nobody wants a surprise crunch!
- Make the Caramel:
- Melt butter brown sugar and corn syrup together stirring constantly.
- Add Marshmallows:
- Mix in marshmallows and vanilla stir until melted and smooth.
- Coat and Cool:
- Pour over popcorn mix quickly spread on a baking sheet to set.
My Best Tips
- Use any kind of popcorn you like - microwave fresh-popped or store-bought
- Keep stirring that caramel mixture to prevent burning
- Work quickly once everything's melted
- Let it cool on a baking sheet to prevent clumping
- For sweet-salty perfection use movie theater butter popcorn
Keep It Fresh
This treat tastes best the day it's made before the popcorn loses its crunch. If you have leftovers store them in an airtight container for 1-2 days but I bet you won't have that problem!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why remove unpopped kernels?
Prevents biting into hard kernels and ensures even coating.
- → Can I use different popcorn?
Yes, any plain popped popcorn works - microwave, air-popped, or stovetop.
- → How long does this keep?
Best eaten same day but keeps 2-3 days in airtight container.
- → Why use corn syrup?
Helps prevent sugar crystallization for smoother caramel.
- → Can I add other flavors?
Yes, try different extracts or add nuts/candy for variety.