If you ask me, homemade caramel corn is one of life’s simple pleasures.
This easy-to-make snack brings together crispy popcorn and chewy Kraft caramels in a way that’ll make you wonder why you ever bought the store-bought stuff. The caramels melt down into a smooth coating that hugs each kernel just right.
It’s made with regular microwave popcorn and those classic square caramels we all grew up with, plus a few pantry staples to make the coating extra special. A quick bake in the oven gives it that perfect crunch.
It’s a family-friendly treat that’s perfect for movie nights, parties, or whenever you need a sweet snack that feeds a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Corn
- Quick and easy – This caramel corn comes together in just 30-45 minutes using simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store.
- No candy thermometer needed – Using Kraft caramels takes the guesswork out of making caramel – no temperature monitoring or complicated candy-making required.
- Perfect for sharing – This recipe makes a big batch that’s great for movie nights, parties, or packaging up as homemade gifts.
- Customizable crunch – You can easily swap in your favorite nuts or leave them out entirely – the recipe works great either way.
What Kind of Caramels Should I Use?
While this recipe specifically calls for Kraft caramels, you’ve got some options when it comes to choosing your caramel squares. Kraft caramels are the classic choice and melt consistently, but you can also use Werther’s soft caramels or store-brand alternatives that come individually wrapped. Just make sure you’re using the soft, chewy caramel candies rather than hard caramel candies or caramel sauce. When unwrapping your caramels (which can be a bit tedious!), check that they’re soft and pliable – if they feel overly hard or dried out, they might be past their prime and won’t melt as smoothly. For the best results, store your caramels at room temperature before using them in this recipe.
Options for Substitutions
While this recipe is pretty straightforward, here are some helpful swaps if you need them:
- Kraft Caramels: If you can’t find Kraft caramels, try using Werther’s soft caramels or any other wrapped soft caramel candies. You could also use caramel bits, which melt faster. Just make sure to use the same weight amount.
- Butter: Margarine works just fine as a 1:1 swap. You can also use coconut oil, though it might add a slight coconut flavor to your caramel corn.
- Mixed nuts: Not a fan of peanuts? Feel free to use any nuts you like – cashews, almonds, or pecans are all great choices. You can even skip the nuts entirely if you prefer just caramel corn.
- Air-popped popcorn: Don’t have an air popper? You can use microwave popcorn (plain or lightly salted variety) – just make sure to remove any unpopped kernels. For best results, avoid butter-flavored microwave popcorn as it might make your caramel coating too greasy.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making
The biggest challenge when making caramel corn is burning the caramel – once those KRAFT caramels start melting, they can go from perfect to scorched in seconds, so keep the heat low and stir constantly. Another common mistake is using hot popcorn straight from the popper, which can make your caramel coating too thin and runny – instead, let your popped corn cool completely before coating it. To prevent your caramel corn from becoming one giant clump, spread it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet right after coating, and break up any large clusters while it’s still warm. For the crunchiest results, avoid making this treat on humid days, as moisture in the air can make your caramel corn turn sticky and soft instead of crispy.
What to Serve With Caramel Corn?
Caramel corn is a perfect snack for movie nights, parties, or casual get-togethers! Since it’s sweet and salty, I like to serve it alongside other munchies that balance out those flavors. A bowl of plain popcorn gives guests a less sweet option, while some dark chocolate pieces create a nice contrast with the caramel. For drinks, hot apple cider or cold milk pair really well with this treat – the drinks help cut through the sweetness and sticky caramel coating. Remember to put out some napkins or wet wipes since caramel corn can get a bit messy!
Storage Instructions
Keep Fresh: Once your caramel corn has completely cooled, place it in an airtight container or a large zip-top bag. It stays fresh and crunchy at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure to keep it away from heat and humidity to prevent the caramel from getting sticky.
Package: This caramel corn makes great gifts! Divide it into decorative bags or mason jars, seal them well, and add a pretty ribbon. If you’re packaging it up, just be sure to let it cool completely first so the pieces don’t stick together in one big clump.
Long-term Storage: For longer storage, you can keep it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. The cool temperature helps prevent the caramel from getting too soft. Just let it come to room temperature before eating for the best texture.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Total Time | 30-45 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1700-1900
- Protein: 25-30 g
- Fat: 80-90 g
- Carbohydrates: 230-250 g
Ingredients
- 1 package (11 oz) kraft caramels
- 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 1 tablespoon water
- 10 cups air-popped popcorn
- 1 cup mixed nuts (peanuts preferred)
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating the oven to 300°F (150°C) to get it ready for baking.
While the oven is heating, spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring that the caramel popcorn can be removed easily after baking.
Step 2: Melt Caramel Mixture
In a large saucepan, cook the KRAFT Caramels, butter, and water over low heat.
Stir frequently until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Keep the heat low to avoid burning the caramel.
Step 3: Combine Popcorn, Peanuts, and Caramel
In a large bowl, mix together the air-popped popcorn and cocktail peanuts.
Pour the melted caramel mixture over the popcorn and nuts.
Use a large spoon or spatula to toss and coat everything evenly, ensuring that each piece is covered with the caramel.
Step 4: Bake the Caramel Popcorn
Spread the coated popcorn and nut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Stir the mixture halfway through, after 10 minutes, to promote even cooking and coating.
Step 5: Cool and Break Into Clusters
After baking, remove the caramel popcorn from the oven.
Immediately spoon the mixture onto a sheet of waxed paper to cool completely.
Once cooled, break the caramel popcorn into clusters.
Enjoy your delicious homemade caramel popcorn clusters!