Classic Caramel Popcorn

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Caramel Popcorn.

1. Step 1

   Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven to a cozy 250°F (120°C).

2. Step 2

   In a very large bowl, pour in your freshly popped popcorn, making sure it’s ready to soak up all that delicious caramel goodness.

3. Step 3

   Next, grab a medium saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat.

4. Step 4

   As it melts, stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and a pinch of salt.

5. Step 5

   Keep an eye on it and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly.

6. Step 6

   Once it reaches a boil, let it bubble away without stirring for about four minutes—this is where the magic happens! After four minutes, carefully remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda.

7. Step 7

   Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up and might surprise you! Now, it’s time to bring it all together.

8. Step 8

   Pour the warm caramel sauce over the popcorn in a thin stream while gently stirring to ensure every kernel is coated in that sweet, sticky goodness.

9. Step 9

   Divide the caramel-coated popcorn between two large, shallow baking dishes, spreading it out evenly.

10. Step 10

    Pop the dishes into your preheated oven and let them bake for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes to keep everything evenly coated and perfectly crunchy.

11. Step 11

    Once the hour is up, take the popcorn out of the oven and let it cool completely.

12. Step 12

    This is the hardest part—waiting! Once it’s cool, break it into delightful pieces and enjoy your homemade caramel popcorn.

13. Step 13

    It’s perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a sweet treat for yourself!.