Delicious Marshmallow Caramel Corn

If you ask me, marshmallow caramel corn is one of those snacks that just makes everything better.

This sweet and crunchy treat brings together two classic favorites – sticky marshmallows and golden caramel – coating every piece of popcorn in pure happiness. The combination creates something that’s both familiar and special at the same time.

It’s made with fresh popped corn tossed in a warm, buttery caramel sauce that’s been smoothed out with melted marshmallows. A pinch of salt adds that perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more.

It’s a crowd-pleasing snack that works for movie nights, parties, or just because you’re craving something sweet and satisfying.

What Kind of Popcorn Should I Use?

Plain white or yellow popcorn kernels work equally well as the base for this caramel corn recipe. If you’re starting with kernels, you can pop them on the stovetop in a heavy pot, use an air popper, or even go with the brown paper bag microwave method – just skip the pre-packaged microwave popcorn since it’s already seasoned. The most important thing is making sure you remove any unpopped kernels (nobody wants to bite into those!) and avoid using buttered or flavored popcorn as your base. For the freshest results, pop your corn right before making the recipe, and make sure it’s completely cooled before adding the caramel coating.

Options for Substitutions

Looking to make this sweet treat but missing something? Here are some helpful swaps you can try:

• Light corn syrup: If you’re out of corn syrup, try honey or golden syrup instead. The texture might be slightly different, but these alternatives will help create that sticky coating we’re after.
• Light brown sugar: Dark brown sugar works too – it’ll just give your caramel corn a deeper, more molasses-like flavor. You can also use regular white sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses.
• Butter: While butter gives the best flavor, you can use margarine or coconut oil as alternatives. Just keep in mind that margarine might make the coating a bit softer.
• Mini marshmallows: Regular marshmallows work fine – just cut them into smaller pieces. You can also use marshmallow fluff (about 1 cup) though it might be a bit messier to work with.
• Plain popcorn: This recipe works best with plain popped kernels, but in a pinch, you can use plain microwave popcorn – just avoid butter-flavored varieties as they might affect the taste.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making

The biggest challenge when making marshmallow caramel corn is burning the caramel mixture – keep a close eye on the butter and sugar as they cook, and remove from heat immediately once the mixture turns a golden amber color.

Another common mistake is using warm popcorn, which can make your coating melt too quickly and become uneven – make sure your popped corn has completely cooled before adding the marshmallow caramel mixture.

Temperature control is crucial when melting marshmallows – using too high heat will result in a tough, stringy texture, so stick to medium-low heat and stir constantly until they’re just melted.

For the best coating coverage, work quickly when mixing the caramel with the popcorn, and don’t forget to spread the mixture on parchment paper to cool – clumping the warm caramel corn in a bowl will result in one giant, hard-to-separate mass.

What to Serve With Marshmallow Caramel Corn?

This sweet and salty snack is perfect for movie nights or parties, and it pairs really well with other munchies! I like to serve it alongside some salty snacks like pretzels or mixed nuts to balance out the sweetness. For drinks, try matching it with hot cocoa in winter or cold milk for the kids – the combo reminds me of having cereal but way more fun. If you’re setting up a snack table, consider adding some fresh fruit like apple slices or strawberries to provide a fresh contrast to the rich caramel corn.

Storage Instructions

Keep Fresh: This sweet and crunchy marshmallow caramel corn stays fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll keep its wonderful texture for up to 5 days – if it lasts that long! Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing to prevent any sticking.

Pack: Want to give this as a gift or pack it for later? Layer it between pieces of wax paper in a tin or container to prevent clumping. For best results, try to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat.

Make Ahead: This treat is perfect for making ahead for parties or movie nights! You can prepare it 2-3 days before your event, and it’ll still taste just as good. Just remember to seal it well in an airtight container to keep the moisture out and maintain that perfect crunch.

Preparation Time	15-20 minutes
Cooking Time	10-15 minutes
Total Time	25-35 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Easy

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 2500-2800
• Protein: 10-15 g
• Fat: 120-130 g
• Carbohydrates: 350-400 g

Ingredients

• 9-10 cups plain popcorn (popped)
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
• 3 cups mini marshmallows or 20 large marshmallows
• Sea salt (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn

Begin by popping 9-10 cups of plain popcorn.

You can do this by using 5 tablespoons of kernels in a brown paper sack or by popping one bag of plain microwave popcorn.

After popping, remove any un-popped kernels and set the popcorn aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Mixture

In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup (1 stick) of butter over medium heat.

Once the butter is melted, add 1 cup of packed light brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of light corn syrup.

Stir the mixture until it is well combined and smooth.

Then, add 3 cups of mini marshmallows (or 20 large marshmallows) to the saucepan.

Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Coat the Popcorn

Pour the marshmallow caramel mixture over the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl.

Use a spatula or large spoon to mix everything well, ensuring the popcorn is evenly coated with the caramel mixture.

Step 4: Set the Coated Popcorn

Spread the coated popcorn onto a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.

For added flavor, optionally sprinkle a little sea salt over the top of the popcorn.

Allow the popcorn to sit for about 10-15 minutes to set.

To expedite the setting process, you can place the popcorn in the refrigerator.

Step 5: Serve and Store

Once set, enjoy your sweet and crunchy popcorn!

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Enjoy as a delightful snack!