Marshmallow Caramel Corn

Marshmallow Caramel Corn is the ultimate sweet and salty treat that combines fluffy popcorn with gooey caramel and marshmallows, baked to perfection. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of crunch and chewiness, making it ideal for movie nights, parties, or just when you need a quick, indulgent snack. With simple ingredients like popcorn, caramel, and marshmallows, this treat is easy to make and hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity in the kitchen or a crowd-pleasing dessert, Marshmallow Caramel Corn is the perfect combination of two classic snacks – caramel corn and marshmallow treats. This recipe also allows room for customization with optional add-ins like extra caramel or salt, making it your own creation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marshmallow Caramel Corn is the perfect snack to satisfy your sweet tooth while indulging in the savory crunch of popcorn. The gooey caramel and marshmallow coating sticks to the popcorn in a way that makes every bite irresistible. Not only is it delicious, but it’s incredibly easy to make. With minimal effort and ingredients, you can create a snack that will be a hit at any event. Whether you’re hosting a family movie night or making treats for a holiday gathering, Marshmallow Caramel Corn is sure to impress. Its perfect balance of textures and flavors makes it a universal favorite for both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

• Popped popcorn
• Mini marshmallows
• Caramel sauce (or homemade caramel)
• Melted butter
• Light brown sugar (packed)
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Variations

• Add-ins: Mix in some chocolate chips, nuts, or M&Ms to give your caramel corn an extra burst of flavor and texture.
• Flavor variations: You can also experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Vegan option: Use vegan butter and dairy-free caramel sauce to make this treat vegan-friendly.
• Salted caramel version: After baking, sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-and-salty combination that is irresistible.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Pop the Popcorn

Pop the popcorn using an air popper, stovetop, or microwave. You’ll need about 12 cups of popped popcorn, which is equivalent to about 12 cups of unpopped kernels. Once popped, place the popcorn in a large oven-safe bowl or spread it out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce (if using homemade)

If making homemade caramel, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture until it begins to bubble, then simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the caramel to thicken.

Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows

Add the mini marshmallows to the caramel sauce and stir until they are completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Coat the Popcorn

Pour the marshmallow-caramel mixture over the popped popcorn. Toss the popcorn to coat it evenly with the caramel and marshmallow mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Caramel Corn

Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the coated popcorn on a lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring the popcorn every 10 minutes to ensure the coating stays even.

Step 6: Add Extra Toppings (Optional)

After baking, you can drizzle extra caramel sauce over the popcorn and add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Let the popcorn cool completely.

Step 7: Break into Clusters

Once cooled, break the popcorn into clusters and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Even coating: Be sure to stir the popcorn every 10 minutes while baking to ensure the caramel coats the popcorn evenly.
• Homemade caramel: If you’re using homemade caramel, make sure to let it simmer for a full 2-3 minutes to achieve the right thickness.
• Storage: If your caramel corn becomes too soft over time, simply re-crisp it in the oven at 250°F for 5-10 minutes.
• Flavor variations: Feel free to get creative with the flavor by adding cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a pinch of sea salt after baking.

How to Serve

Marshmallow Caramel Corn is perfect as a stand-alone snack for movie nights, parties, or gatherings. Serve it in bowls, small bags for easy handouts, or even gift it in cute containers as a homemade treat. Its crunchy and chewy texture makes it both fun to eat and easy to enjoy while relaxing or socializing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Marshmallow Caramel Corn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will keep it fresh and crunchy. Be sure the popcorn is fully cooled before storing.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Marshmallow Caramel Corn for longer storage, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

If your caramel corn becomes soft over time, simply reheat it in a 250°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore its crispness. This will ensure it stays crunchy even after storing.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce? Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works just fine in this recipe, saving you time and effort.
2. How do I make the caramel sauce from scratch? Combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens into a caramel sauce.
3. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows? Yes, you can use regular marshmallows, but mini marshmallows melt faster and create a smoother consistency.
4. How can I make the caramel corn extra salty? After baking, sprinkle some sea salt over the caramel corn for a sweet and salty combination.
5. How do I prevent my caramel from burning? Keep an eye on the caramel as it simmers and stir regularly to ensure it doesn’t burn. Use medium heat for the best results.
6. Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, use dairy-free caramel and vegan butter to make this treat vegan-friendly.
7. How long does Marshmallow Caramel Corn last? It will last up to one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
8. Can I add nuts to the caramel corn? Yes, chopped nuts like peanuts, cashews, or almonds can be added for an extra crunch.
9. What should I do if my caramel is too runny? If the caramel is too runny, simmer it a bit longer to allow it to thicken before mixing it with the marshmallows.
10. Can I freeze Marshmallow Caramel Corn? Yes, you can freeze the caramel corn for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Conclusion

Marshmallow Caramel Corn is the ultimate treat for any occasion, offering a perfect combination of crunchy popcorn, gooey marshmallows, and rich caramel. It’s an easy-to-make snack that’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings, whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a fun treat. With simple ingredients and customizable variations, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Try it today, and enjoy a delicious snack that’s both sweet and satisfying!

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