Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe

If you’re looking for a snack that’s irresistibly sweet, crunchy, and utterly addictive, then Marshmallow Caramel Corn is your new best friend. This delightful treat combines the buttery richness of caramel, the gooey softness of melted marshmallows, and the light crispness of freshly popped popcorn into one unforgettable mix. Whether you’re gearing up for a movie night, need a sweet gift, or just want to indulge yourself with a nostalgic snack, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results every time. Trust me, once you try this Marshmallow Caramel Corn, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one handful!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Marshmallow Caramel Corn are wonderfully simple but pack a powerful punch when it comes to flavor and texture. Each item plays a key role in creating that perfect balance of crunch, chew, and sweetness that makes this snack so addictive.

• 12 cups popped popcorn: Opt for air-popped or your favorite method for a light, fluffy base that soaks up all the caramel and marshmallow magic.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy foundation that blends harmoniously with the sugar and marshmallows.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: This ingredient contributes deep, molasses-like sweetness and helps create a perfectly sticky caramel coating.
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup: Corn syrup keeps the caramel smooth and prevents it from crystallizing, ensuring a silky finish.
• 1 package (10 oz) large marshmallows: The star that transforms the caramel sauce into a luscious, gooey dream.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash of vanilla adds warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Marshmallow Caramel Corn

Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn

Start by popping your popcorn using whichever method you prefer—air popper, stovetop, or microwave—all work wonderfully. Make sure you have about 12 cups of fluffy, popped corn ready and set aside in a large mixing bowl. This will be the base for your Marshmallow Caramel Corn, so having it fresh and crisp is essential for the best texture.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s bubbling softly. Next, stir in the packed brown sugar and light corn syrup. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You’ll notice the mixture darkens slightly and thickens—this is the golden foundation for your caramel coating.

Step 3: Add Marshmallows

Once your caramel is thick and glossy, it’s time for the fun part: adding the marshmallows. Toss the entire package into the saucepan, stirring continuously until the marshmallows melt completely. The sauce will become smooth and luscious, creating a perfect sticky coating for your popcorn. Don’t rush this step; patience ensures the marshmallows fully blend for that signature Marshmallow Caramel Corn texture.

Step 4: Coat the Popcorn

Immediately pour the warm caramel-marshmallow sauce over your popped popcorn. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently toss the popcorn to ensure every kernel gets evenly coated with the sweet sauce. Be gentle to avoid breaking the popcorn but thorough enough so that every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 5: Bake for Crunch

Next, spread your coated popcorn evenly across a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake it in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 30 minutes. Be sure to stir the popcorn every 10 minutes during baking—this gives a consistent crunchy texture and prevents clumping, creating that iconic crispy yet chewy Marshmallow Caramel Corn experience.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

After baking, allow your popcorn to cool completely on the baking sheet. As it cools, the caramel sets and the popcorn crisps up perfectly. Once cooled, break the Marshmallow Caramel Corn into bite-sized clusters and get ready to enjoy one of the most delightful snacks that’s both nostalgic and new!

How to Serve Marshmallow Caramel Corn

Garnishes

To elevate your Marshmallow Caramel Corn, consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt on top right after baking for a sweet-salty balance. You can also toss in some chopped nuts—like pecans or almonds—for extra crunch and nuttiness that complements the Sweet flavors perfectly. A drizzle of melted chocolate adds a decadent touch that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

Marshmallow Caramel Corn makes a fantastic treat on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides such as fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The fresh textures and cool creaminess contrast the crispy, chewy popcorn, enhancing the overall snack experience whether you’re serving it at a casual gathering or dessert table.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking for a fun way to serve this Marshmallow Caramel Corn, try filling individual cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbon for party favors. Layering it in clear jars or mason jars makes a stunning gift or festive centerpiece. You can even use it as a crunchy topping for cupcakes or ice cream sundaes for a playful twist on dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Marshmallow Caramel Corn fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays delicious for up to a week, maintaining its crunchy texture and gooey sweetness. Avoid refrigeration as it can introduce moisture and cause sogginess.

Freezing

If you want to keep it for longer, Marshmallow Caramel Corn freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe container or sealed bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature, and it will taste just as amazing as when freshly made.

Reheating

To freshen up slightly stale Marshmallow Caramel Corn, warm it in a low oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 5 minutes. This will crisp it up again without melting the marshmallows too much. Be careful not to overheat, or you’ll lose that perfect balance of textures.

FAQs

Can I use microwave popcorn instead of air-popped popcorn?

Absolutely! Just make sure to choose plain, lightly salted microwave popcorn without added butter or flavors so your Marshmallow Caramel Corn tastes balanced and you control the sweetness perfectly.

Can I substitute mini marshmallows for large marshmallows?

Yes, mini marshmallows work well too. Since they’re smaller, they’ll melt more quickly but the final taste and texture of your Marshmallow Caramel Corn will be just as delightful.

Is it necessary to bake the popcorn after coating it?

Baking is key to getting that perfect crunch and helping the caramel and marshmallow sauce evenly set around each kernel. While you can skip it, the texture won’t be quite the same.

Can I add other flavors like cinnamon or cocoa powder?

Definitely! Feel free to add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to your caramel mixture for an extra flavor dimension in your Marshmallow Caramel Corn. It’s a fun way to personalize the recipe.

How long will Marshmallow Caramel Corn stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, it stays fresh and crunchy for up to one week, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for parties or movie nights.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Marshmallow Caramel Corn enough. It’s one of those special recipes that instantly brings a smile and turns any ordinary day into a little celebration. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or indulging quietly on your own, this sweet, crunchy, and gooey snack never fails to impress. So go ahead, dive into the joy of making this delicious treat and create your own moments of pure popcorn happiness!

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