Mom's Favorite Microwave Caramel Corn Recipe

We've been making this quick and easy version of homemade caramel corn in the microwave for over 50 years. Learn how to make a no bake buttery, sweet and salty snack that comes together in less than 10 minutes. Grab a paper bag and let's get started!

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Servings cups

Author Melissa Erdelac

Ingredients

½ cup (82 g) popcorn kernels air popped plain OR 13 cups plain microwave popcorn (2-3 bags)
½ cup (113.5 g) unsalted butter
1 cup (220 g) dark brown sugar
¼ cup (85.25 g) light corn syrup
1 teaspoon (0.5 tsp.) salt
½ teaspoon (0.5 tsp.) baking soda

Instructions

Pop the popcorn in air popper or microwave bags, removing any unpopped kernels. Place popcorn in a large, paper grocery bag. Set aside.
½ cup popcorn kernels
In a large microwavable safe measuring cup or bowl, place the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup and salt (do not add baking soda yet). Microwave for 1 minute on high. Remove and stir.
½ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup dark brown sugar, ¼ cup light corn syrup, 1 teaspoon salt
Return to the microwave and cook for 2 more minutes. Stir in the baking soda. Immediately pour caramel sauce over popcorn in paper bag. Roll down the top of the bag and shake well.
½ teaspoon baking soda
Place closed bag in microwave and cook for 90 seconds. Remove and shake well, using oven mitts to protect hands. Flip bag over and cook again for 90 seconds. Remove and shake well. Finally, flip bag over and cook for 45 seconds.
Shake one last time and pour on ungreased cookie sheet to cool. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

Storage

Once it has completely cooled store in an airtight container, like large glass jars with lids or tins. Store at room temperature up to 1 week.

Nutrition