Oven-Baked Caramel Corn Recipe

Name: Oven-Baked Caramel Corn Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 10 cups
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 cups popped popcorn (freshly popped); 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp vanilla extract

75 min 10 cups Medium

All Recipes

Enjoy crunchy, sweet caramel corn that stays fresh for days with this easy oven-baked recipe.

Prep

15 min

Cook

60 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Caramel corn is a timeless snack that brings joy to both young and old. The combination of sweet, buttery caramel with perfectly popped corn creates an irresistible treat. Whether you're preparing it for a movie night or gifting it during the holidays, this oven-baked caramel corn will stay crunchy for days, making it the perfect make-ahead snack. One of the secrets to achieving that perfect caramel texture is the inclusion of baking soda. When added to the caramel mixture, baking soda helps create a light, airy texture, ensuring that each piece of popcorn is evenly coated. This chemical magic happens as the baking soda reacts with the acidic components, releasing carbon dioxide bubbles that aerate the caramel.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).

Pro tip: A low temperature helps the caramel set slowly, preventing burning.

Prepare Popcorn

Spread the freshly popped popcorn across two large rimmed baking sheets.

Pro tip: Ensure the popcorn is free of unpopped kernels.

Make Caramel

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil without stirring for 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches 240°F (115°C) for the best consistency.

Add Baking Soda and Vanilla

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla extract until well combined.

Pro tip: The mixture will bubble up, so stir carefully.

Coat Popcorn

Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and stir to coat evenly.

Pro tip: Use a spatula to gently fold the popcorn, ensuring even coverage.

Bake and Stir

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.

Pro tip: Stirring prevents clumps and ensures even coating.

Cool Completely

Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheets.

Pro tip: Break apart any clumps before storing.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh popcorn for the best texture.
Stir the caramel constantly to avoid burning.
Baking soda helps the caramel coat evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is baking soda added to caramel?

Baking soda creates tiny air bubbles in the caramel, which makes it light and easier to coat the popcorn evenly.

How long does caramel corn stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, caramel corn stays fresh and crunchy for up to a week.

Can I make caramel popcorn ahead of time?

Yes, caramel popcorn can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

What temperature should I bake caramel corn?

Bake caramel corn at 250°F (120°C) for even coating and to set the caramel without burning.

How can I prevent caramel corn from clumping?

Stir the caramel corn every 15 minutes during baking to prevent clumping and ensure even coating.

Serving Suggestions

This caramel corn is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can easily prepare it ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it will remain crunchy for up to a week. Serve it as a standalone snack or pair it with nuts and dried fruit for a delightful trail mix. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt before baking for a sweet and salty combination. Perfect for parties or as a thoughtful homemade gift, this caramel corn will be a hit with everyone.

Nutrition per serving

220

Calories

Protein

12g

Fat

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