Baked Caramel Corn Recipe

This irresistible baked caramel corn recipe is a crowd-pleaser perfect for Super Bowl parties, New Year's Eve celebrations, family gatherings, or any occasion! Say goodbye to soggy caramel and hello to perfectly crunchy, sweet, and salty goodness. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers the ultimate caramel corn experience, guaranteed to be a new family favorite.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 70 mins
Calories 754 kcal
Protein 8g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Baked Caramel Corn 97

Recipe Actions

Share this recipe:

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Baked Caramel Corn

  • Popped popcorn (prepared from 1/2 cup unpopped popcorn kernels)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unpopped popcorn
  • Generous amount of cooking spray

Cook Smarter with Sous, Your Kitchen Companion

Missing an ingredient for this Baked Caramel Corn? Need a perfect wine pairing or a healthy side dish idea? Don't guess—ask Sous! Your AI-powered sous-chef is ready to help you swap ingredients, adjust serving sizes, and discover flavor tips in seconds.

How to Make Baked Caramel Corn

  1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Pop 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels using your preferred method (air popper, microwave, or stovetop). Set aside.
  3. Generously grease a large (13x9 inch) roasting pan with cooking spray.
  4. Add the popped popcorn to the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  5. In a 2-quart saucepan over medium-high heat, combine 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, 1 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  6. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.
  7. Remove from heat and immediately stir in 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  8. Carefully pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn in the roasting pan.
  9. Toss gently to ensure all popcorn pieces are evenly coated.
  10. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 60-70 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even caramel distribution.
  11. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. The caramel corn will continue to crisp as it cools. Break into pieces and enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

31 g

Sugar

314g

Fat

98g

Carbs

39g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)