How to Make Easy Caramel Popcorn in the Microwave

I’m obsessed with caramel popcorn. It’s probably getting to be an unhealthy addiction. I’m constantly craving a sweet, buttery snack and caramel popcorn checks all the boxes! Plus, it can be make in minutes with just the microwave and I always have all the ingredients on hand!

This Microwave Caramel Corn recipe is my go to for just about any situation. Whether I’m entertaining guests, looking for a homemade gift for a neighbor or just want a treat for the family, I come back to this recipe time and time again. If you love chewy Caramel Coated Popcorn or prefer it light and crunchy, this is hands-down the best caramel popcorn recipe to satisfy your cravings. With just a few pantry staples and no stovetop required, you can whip up a batch of delicious Homemade Caramel Corn in minutes.

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Jump to Recipe

Why This Is the Best Caramel Popcorn Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This caramel corn recipe easy enough for weeknight treats or last-minute parties.
• Microwave Magic: No need for complicated stovetop techniques.
• Customizable Texture: Make chewy or crunchy caramel coated popcorn to suit your taste.

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Ingredients

• 10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Equipment

• Large microwave-safe bowl
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

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Instructions

1. Pop the Popcorn

Start with freshly popped popcorn. You can use plain microwave popcorn or air-popped kernels. Place it in a large mixing bowl, ensuring all unpopped kernels are removed. This forms the base for your homemade caramel corn.

2. Make the Caramel Sauce

• Combine butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir to combine.
• Continue heating for 2–3 more minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the mixture bubbles and thickens.

3. Add the Magic Touch

• Stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The caramel will foam slightly—this ensures your caramel coated popcorn has the perfect texture! It will foam and look pretty, but remember it’s very hot!

4. Coat the Popcorn

• Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn. Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, stir to coat the popcorn evenly.

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Choose Your Texture

For Chewy Microwave Caramel Corn

• Skip additional cooking! After coating the popcorn, you can spread it on a baking sheet or enjoy it straight from the bowl for soft, chewy homemade caramel corn. This is my favorite way to enjoy it.

For Crunchy Microwave Caramel Corn

• Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through, to create irresistibly crunchy caramel coated popcorn.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Caramel Corn Recipe

• Use Fresh Popcorn: Stale popcorn won’t hold up to the caramel.
• Mix It Up: Add nuts, pretzels, or chocolate drizzle for fun variations on this easy caramel corn recipe.
• Store It Right: Keep your homemade caramel corn in an airtight container for up to a week.

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Fun Variations for the Best Caramel Popcorn

• Nutty Delight: Toss in 1/2 cup of peanuts, almonds, or pecans before coating the popcorn.
• Spiced Perfection: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a festive twist.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle with melted chocolate for a gourmet version of this caramel corn recipe easy to make at home.

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Whether you’re making this Microwave Caramel Corn for movie night, a party, or just a quick treat, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The beauty of this caramel corn recipe easy is its versatility—you can make it chewy, crunchy, or loaded with your favorite toppings.

Try this homemade caramel corn recipe today, and let me know in the comments if you made any fun variations. This is truly the best caramel popcorn you’ll ever taste!

Check out my other delicious recipes like my old fashioned red velvet cake, gooey rice krispie treats and Walt Disney’s famous chili!