If you’re a fan of soft, chewy caramel popcorn, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just an indulgent snack, this Soft Caramel Popcorn offers the perfect balance of buttery caramel coating and tender popcorn. The rich caramel flavor paired with the airy popcorn makes this treat irresistible. Best of all, it’s simple to make and requires only a handful of ingredients
Prepare the popcorn
Start by popping your popcorn. You can use an air popper, microwave popcorn, or stovetop method, whichever you prefer. Once popped, measure out 6 cups and spread the popcorn out on a large baking sheet or in a large bowl. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels so they don’t end up in the finished product.
Make the caramel sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the packed brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir the mixture constantly as the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Once the mixture begins to bubble, reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The caramel should thicken slightly and turn a rich, golden-brown color.
The combination of butter and cream gives the caramel its soft, chewy texture, while the brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
Coat the popcorn
Once the caramel sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and carefully drizzle it over the prepared popcorn. Use a spatula or spoon to gently toss the popcorn, ensuring that all of the kernels are evenly coated with the warm caramel. Work quickly, as the caramel will begin to set as it cools.
Let the popcorn cool
After coating the popcorn, let it sit for a few minutes to allow the caramel to cool and set slightly. The popcorn should still remain soft and chewy, but giving it a little time helps the caramel stick to the popcorn better.
Serve and enjoy
Once the caramel has set, your soft caramel popcorn is ready to enjoy! Serve it in a big bowl for snacking, or portion it out into individual servings. This treat is perfect for sharing, but you may find it hard to stop after just one handful!
Bonus Tip:
For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce as it simmers. The hint of salt enhances the sweetness of the caramel and adds a delicious contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also toss in some nuts, like roasted almonds or pecans, along with the popcorn for a crunchy twist.
Conclusion:
This Soft Caramel Popcorn is the perfect combination of sweet, buttery, and chewy goodness. The rich caramel coats each kernel, making every bite a delightful experience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this indulgent treat that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering—or simply as a comforting snack for yourself. Whether you’re sharing it at a party or enjoying it during a cozy movie night, this caramel popcorn will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe.