Quick & Gooey Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn Recipe for Movie Night

Sweet kernels burst with unexpected marshmallow caramel popcorn magic, creating a delightful snack that dances between crunchy and gooey textures.

Clouds of sugary goodness coat each crisp piece, promising pure indulgence.

Childhood memories blend with grown-up cravings in this simple yet irresistible treat.

Sticky caramel ribbons weave through fluffy marshmallow layers, tempting you with every handful.

Minimal ingredients combine for maximum satisfaction, ensuring a crowd-pleasing dessert that disappears quickly.

Comfort and excitement merge in this playful recipe that brings smiles to any gathering.

Prepare to experience a snack that turns ordinary moments into delectable celebrations.

Instructions For Making Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Preheat the oven to 250°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and smooth popcorn removal.

Step 2: Spread Popcorn Base

Distribute freshly popped popcorn evenly across the prepared baking sheet, creating a single layer that allows perfect caramel coating.

Step 3: Create Caramel Foundation

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until smooth and slightly golden, releasing a rich, inviting aroma.

Step 4: Develop Caramel Mixture

Add brown sugar to melted butter, stirring continuously to create a glossy caramel sauce that prevents burning and ensures smooth blending.

Step 5: Incorporate Marshmallow Magic

Fold mini marshmallows into the caramel mixture, gently stirring until completely dissolved and creating a thick, silky sauce.

Step 6: Enhance Flavor Profile

Stir in vanilla extract to amplify the overall taste and introduce a subtle aromatic complexity to the mixture.

Step 7: Coat Popcorn Generously

Pour the warm marshmallow-caramel sauce over the popcorn, using a spatula to ensure complete and even coverage of every kernel.

Step 8: Distribute Caramel Evenly

Gently toss the popcorn to spread the caramel sauce, ensuring each piece gets a luxurious coating without crushing the delicate kernels.

Step 9: Add Salty Contrast

Sprinkle sea salt across the coated popcorn to create a tantalizing sweet-and-salty balance that elevates the entire flavor experience.

Step 10: Optional Nutty Dimension

Scatter chopped nuts over the mixture for an additional layer of crunch and rich nutty undertones.

Step 11: Bake To Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring once midway to prevent sticking and ensure uniform caramelization.

Step 12: Cool and Set

Remove from oven and let cool completely, allowing the caramel to harden and create a crisp, delectable coating.

Step 13: Serve and Store

Break into delightful clusters. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Pro Tips For Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn Perfection

• Prevent Popcorn Sticking: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and hassle-free cleanup of your caramel popcorn.
• Control Caramel Consistency: Stir butter and brown sugar continuously to create a smooth, golden caramel without burning, which prevents bitter flavors.
• Achieve Even Coating: Pour warm marshmallow-caramel mixture slowly and use a spatula to gently toss, guaranteeing every popcorn kernel gets a luxurious, uniform layer.
• Boost Flavor Complexity: Sprinkle sea salt to create a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast that elevates the entire taste profile of your caramel popcorn.

Flavor Twists For Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn

• Nutty Caramel Popcorn: Replace mini marshmallows with almond butter for a protein-rich, nutty version that adds extra depth and nutrition.
• Coconut Caramel Crunch: Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical-inspired treat.
• Gluten-Free Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the popcorn for a decadent gluten-free alternative that adds rich flavor complexity.
• Vegan Maple Delight: Use coconut oil instead of butter, maple syrup in place of brown sugar, and plant-based marshmallows to create a completely vegan caramel popcorn experience.

Pairing Ideas For Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn

• Sip Rich Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied cabernet or merlot that balances the popcorn's sweetness with subtle tannin complexity.
• Enjoy Cold Craft Beer: Choose a chocolate stout or amber ale that echoes the caramel's deep, roasted undertones and provides a robust counterpoint.
• Serve Alongside Creamy Dessert: Plate a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or bourbon-infused gelato to complement the popcorn's rich, buttery notes.
• Match with Nutty Accompaniment: Arrange a small dish of roasted almonds or pecans to enhance the snack's texture and add sophisticated depth.

How To Keep Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn Fresh

• Transfer cooled caramel popcorn into an airtight container with a tight-sealing lid, preventing moisture and maintaining crispness for up to 3-4 days.
• Place completely cooled popcorn in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-lock bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn, storing for 2-3 weeks.
• Store in a sealed container at cool room temperature away from direct sunlight and humidity, consuming within 2-3 days for best quality and crunch.
• Warm briefly in a 250°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness, spreading popcorn evenly on a baking sheet and checking frequently to prevent burning.

Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn FAQs

• Is the popcorn crispy after baking?

Yes, baking helps create a crisp caramel coating that gives the popcorn a satisfying crunch and prevents sogginess.

• Can I use regular salt instead of sea salt?

Sea salt provides a better flavor balance, but regular salt works if that’s what you have available. Just use less since it’s more concentrated.

• How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Stir continuously while making the caramel sauce and maintain medium heat. Remove from heat immediately if you see any darkening beyond a golden color.

• What type of popcorn works best for this recipe?

Plain, freshly popped popcorn is ideal. Avoid pre-flavored microwave popcorn, as it can interfere with the caramel coating and add unwanted flavors.

Why Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn Is Sweet And Addictive

• Customize with Ease: Transform basic popcorn into a gourmet treat with simple ingredients and minimal kitchen skills, perfect for novice and experienced cooks alike.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Create a delightful snack that comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for spontaneous gatherings, movie nights, or unexpected sweet cravings.
• Sweet-Salty Sensation: Blend caramel's rich sweetness with a sprinkle of sea salt, delivering an irresistible flavor combination that tantalizes taste buds and keeps everyone coming back for more.
• Versatile Entertaining Option: Adaptable recipe allows for personal touches like adding nuts or experimenting with different seasoning variations, ensuring it suits various preferences and occasions.

Ingredients For Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn

• Popcorn: A light, airy snack that serves as the perfect canvas for the caramel coating.

• Butter: Provides a rich, creamy foundation for the caramel sauce.
• Brown Sugar: Adds deep sweetness and contributes to the caramel's rich color and flavor.
• Mini Marshmallows: Create a smooth, sticky base that helps bind the caramel coating to the popcorn.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet notes.

• Sea Salt: Offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
• Chopped Nuts (Optional): Introduces an extra layer of crunch and nutty complexity.

Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn Recipe

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4.8 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Sweet kernels of marshmallow caramel popcorn dance with irresistible charm, promising pure indulgence in every handful. Sticky, golden caramel and fluffy marshmallows coat each crisp morsel, creating a delightful treat you cannot resist.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 8 cups popped popcorn
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Sweet Binding Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Garnish:

• 2 tbsp sea salt
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy cleanup.
2. Spread the freshly popped popcorn evenly across the prepared baking sheet, creating a uniform layer that allows for even coating.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until it becomes smooth and slightly golden, releasing a rich, nutty aroma.
4. Add brown sugar to the melted butter, stirring continuously to create a smooth, glossy caramel mixture that prevents sugar from burning.
5. Incorporate mini marshmallows into the caramel mixture, gently folding until they completely dissolve and create a thick, silky sauce.
6. Stir in vanilla extract, which will enhance the overall depth of flavor and provide a subtle aromatic complexity.
7. Carefully pour the warm marshmallow-caramel mixture over the popcorn, using a spatula to ensure every kernel gets an even, luxurious coating.
8. Gently toss the popcorn to distribute the caramel sauce, making sure all pieces are generously covered without crushing the delicate kernels.
9. Sprinkle sea salt across the coated popcorn for a tantalizing sweet-and-salty contrast that elevates the entire flavor profile.
10. Optional: Scatter chopped nuts over the mixture for added crunch and nutty dimension.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring once midway to prevent sticking and ensure uniform caramelization.
12. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely, during which time the caramel will harden and create a crisp, delectable coating.
13. Break into clusters and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Notes

• Always use fresh, high-quality popcorn kernels for the best texture and flavor explosion.
• Maintain medium heat when making caramel to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, glossy consistency.
• Salt enhances the sweet caramel flavor, creating a delightful contrast that keeps people coming back for more.
• For gluten-free version, verify marshmallow and vanilla extract ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-free adaptation works by substituting butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
• Consider adding dark chocolate drizzle after cooling for an extra decadent twist.
• Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crispness and prevent marshmallow caramel from becoming sticky.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg