If you are a popcorn lover like I am, you’re probably no stranger to caramel popcorn. This sweet and salty snack has been a favorite for years, and for good reason. With so many variations and ways to make it, caramel popcorn is an incredibly versatile treat.
Which is why – today – we’ll explore everything from traditional homemade caramel corn to microwave caramel popcorn and gourmet caramel popcorn balls. Let’s get started!
Caramel Popcorn vs Caramel Corn
First, let’s clarify the difference between caramel popcorn and caramel corn. Caramel popcorn is made with popped popcorn coated in a caramel sauce, while caramel corn is made by mixing caramel sauce with popcorn kernels before popping them.
While both are delicious, caramel popcorn is the more popular option and what we’ll be focusing on in this article.
Homemade Caramel Popcorn
Making homemade caramel popcorn is easier than you might think. All you need is popped popcorn, butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and a pinch of salt.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan
- Add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt
- Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn, mix well, and bake in the oven until the popcorn is coated and crispy.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Salted Caramel Popcorn
For an extra layer of flavor, try making salted caramel popcorn. As mentioned, simply sprinkle sea salt over the caramel-coated popcorn before baking. The salt brings out the sweetness of the caramel and adds a savory element to the snack.
Oishi Popcorn Caramel
If you’re a fan of Japanese snacks, you’ve probably heard of Oishi popcorn caramel. Oishi Caramel Popcorn is a popular popcorn brand in Asia and can be found at Asian grocery stores or ordered online. It has a unique flavor and texture that’s worth trying if you’re a caramel popcorn enthusiast.
Caramel Popcorn Balls
Caramel popcorn balls are a fun and festive way to enjoy this sweet treat. To make them, simply form the caramel-coated popcorn into balls while it’s still warm and sticky. You can also add other ingredients like nuts or dried fruit to the mixture for added flavor and texture.
3 Ingredient Caramel Popcorn
For a simple and easy caramel popcorn recipe, try making 3 ingredient caramel popcorn. All you need is popped popcorn, caramel candies, and butter. Melt the caramel candies and butter in the microwave, pour it over the popcorn, and bake until crispy.
Cara Buat Popcorn Caramel
“Cara buat popcorn caramel” means “how to make caramel popcorn” in Malay. While there are many variations of caramel popcorn recipes, the basic steps are the same. Pop the popcorn, make the caramel sauce, pour it over the popcorn, mix well, and bake until crispy.
Caramel Cheddar Popcorn
For a unique twist on caramel popcorn, try making caramel cheddar popcorn. This snack combines the sweetness of caramel with the savory flavor of cheddar cheese. Simply mix caramel-coated popcorn with cheddar cheese powder and bake until crispy.
Cheese and caramel popcorn is a delicious twist on classic caramel popcorn that adds a savory element with the addition of shredded cheese. It’s a perfect snack for movie night or game day.
Cretors Caramel Popcorn
Cretors is a beloved popcorn brand that has been making delicious popcorn since 1885. Their caramel popcorn is a fan favorite, with a perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Orville Redenbacher Caramel Popcorn
Orville Redenbacher is a classic popcorn brand known for its high-quality kernels. Their caramel popcorn is no exception, with a perfect crunch and a rich caramel flavor.
Caramel and Cheddar Popcorn
This snack combines caramel popcorn and cheese popcorn for the best of both worlds. For those who can’t decide between sweet or savory, why not have both?
The perfect combination of sweet and savory, this snack features both caramel and cheddar popcorn mixed together for a flavor explosion in every bite.
Werther’s Caramel Popcorn
Werther’s is a popular candy brand known for their creamy, caramel-flavored treats. The classic Werther’s Original Caramel Popcorn is no different: crunchy with a rich and buttery taste.
How to Make Caramel Popcorn Using Microwave Popcorn
Got a microwave? Sweet!
Making caramel popcorn using microwave popcorn is a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here are the steps to follow when making Microwave Caramel Popcorn:
- Pop a bag of microwave popcorn according to the instructions on the package. Remove any unpopped kernels.
- Melt 1/2 cup of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of corn syrup, and a pinch of salt.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to boil. Continue to microwave for 2 minutes, stirring after each minute.
- Remove the mixture from the microwave and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the popcorn and stir to coat evenly.
- Spread the popcorn mixture out on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.
Allow the popcorn to cool completely before serving.
How to Make Caramel Popcorn Using a Popcorn Machine?
Making caramel popcorn using a popcorn machine requires a bit more time and effort, but it’s worth it for the delicious, fresh taste.
Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the popcorn machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels to the machine and turn it on.
- Melt 1/2 cup of butter in a small saucepan. Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of corn syrup, and a pinch of salt.
- Once the popcorn starts popping, pour the mixture over the popcorn while stirring constantly. Continue to stir until all of the kernels are coated.
- Transfer the popcorn to a baking sheet and spread it out evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.
Allow the popcorn to cool completely before serving.
Best Popcorn for Caramel Popcorn?
When it comes to making caramel popcorn, the best popcorn to use is one that has a neutral flavor and pops up fluffy and tender. Some popular options include mushroom popcorn, butterfly popcorn, and hulless popcorn. It’s also important to use fresh, high-quality popcorn to ensure the best results.
Best Caramel Popcorn?
With so many options out there, it can be hard to know which caramel popcorn is the best. Some top contenders include Garrett Popcorn’s Chicago Mix, Popcornopolis’ Caramel Corn, and The Popcorn Factory’s Butter Toffee Almond Caramel Corn.
Caramel Popcorn Near Me
If you’re on the hunt for caramel popcorn or some delicious caramel corn and don’t feel like making it yourself, use online search engines or food apps to find the nearest specialty popcorn shops or gourmet grocery stores.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making caramel popcorn is a fun and easy way to enjoy a delicious treat. Whether you choose to use microwave popcorn or a popcorn machine, following these simple steps will result in a batch of mouth-watering caramel popcorn that is sure to please.