Marshmallow Caramel Corn Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of the perfect sweet and crunchy snack that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you’re about to fall head over heels for Marshmallow Caramel Corn. This delightful treat combines the gooey richness of melted marshmallows with the deep, buttery sweetness of caramel, all luxuriously coating fluffy popped popcorn. It’s the kind of snack that brings everyone together—whether for a cozy movie night, an indulgent afternoon pick-me-up, or just because. The magic lies in the way the caramel and marshmallow swirl together, hugging each piece of popcorn with sticky-sweet goodness that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Marshmallow Caramel Corn recipe is wonderfully simple, relying on just a few essential ingredients that each play a starring role in delivering incredible flavor and texture. From the light crisp of the popcorn to the rich caramel and marshmallow blend, each ingredient is key to creating that perfect balance of sweet, chewy, and crunchy.

• 12 cups popped popcorn: Use freshly popped popcorn with no added butter or salt for the best canvas to absorb the sweet coating.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy base for the caramel sauce without overpowering the sweetness.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Brings a deep, molasses-like sweetness that gives the caramel its signature flavor and caramel color.
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup: Helps keep the caramel smooth and prevents crystallization for that perfect chewy texture.
• 1 package (10 oz) large marshmallows: Creates the gooey, sticky coating that makes this treat extra special and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a wonderful fragrant warmth that rounds out the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Marshmallow Caramel Corn

Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn

Start by popping your popcorn and tossing it into a large bowl. Make sure to use plain popcorn without butter or salt to ensure the marshmallow caramel mixture sticks perfectly without competing flavors. This fluffy base really lets the topping shine.

Step 2: Melt the Butter, Sugar, and Corn Syrup

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and light corn syrup. Stir frequently to evenly combine these ingredients and allow the brown sugar to dissolve completely. This is the moment when the caramel layer begins to take shape.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallows and Vanilla

Once the butter, sugar, and syrup mixture is bubbling gently, toss in the large marshmallows. Stir continuously as they slowly melt into a glossy, thick, and sticky sauce. Finish by stirring in the vanilla extract for a lovely aromatic note that perfectly complements the sweet flavors.

Step 4: Combine with Popcorn

Pour the warm marshmallow caramel sauce over the bowl of popped popcorn. Gently fold and toss the popcorn with a spatula or wooden spoon so each kernel is evenly coated but not smashed. This careful mixing ensures every crunchy bite has the right amount of gooey sweetness.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow your Marshmallow Caramel Corn to cool slightly at room temperature so the coating sets just enough to hold together. It should still be soft and chewy but firm enough to pick up easily. Now it’s ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Marshmallow Caramel Corn

Garnishes

For extra flare, sprinkle a handful of chopped toasted nuts like pecans or almonds over your Marshmallow Caramel Corn once coated, but before it cools completely. A dash of sea salt can highlight the caramel’s flavor beautifully too, creating that perfect sweet-salty contrast.

Side Dishes

Because Marshmallow Caramel Corn is such a rich and flavorful snack, it pairs beautifully with light, refreshing drinks like iced tea, lemonade, or even sparkling water with a hint of citrus. It’s also a fun addition to dessert tables alongside fresh berries or crisp apple slices.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Marshmallow Caramel Corn into a party star by serving it in colorful paper cones, clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or festive bowls for an inviting snack station. You can even mix it with colorful candies or mini chocolate chips to jazz up the look and add that extra burst of flavor fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Marshmallow Caramel Corn fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay perfectly chewy and delicious for up to a week, making it an easy snack to enjoy anytime cravings strike.

Freezing

You can freeze Marshmallow Caramel Corn if you want to save it longer. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, just allow it to thaw at room temperature for a few hours, and it’ll taste just like fresh.

Reheating

If your Marshmallow Caramel Corn feels a bit stale or firm, pop it in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to soften the coating again. Be careful not to overheat or it may become too sticky or chewy.

FAQs

Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to use plain, unbuttered microwave popcorn to best absorb the marshmallow caramel coating. Avoid flavored or salted types for the best texture and taste.

What if I don’t have light corn syrup?

Light corn syrup helps keep the caramel smooth, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with an equal amount of honey or golden syrup, keeping in mind the flavor will be slightly different but just as tasty.

How do I get the marshmallows to melt evenly?

Use medium heat and stir constantly while adding marshmallows to the butter and sugar mixture. Patience is key so they melt slowly and create a smooth, sticky caramel base without burning.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Plain popcorn and these ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your popcorn brand to ensure no additives contain gluten if you have a sensitivity.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate?

Absolutely! For extra texture and flavor, stirring in toasted nuts or mini chocolate chips just before the coating sets is a delicious way to elevate your Marshmallow Caramel Corn.

Final Thoughts

This Marshmallow Caramel Corn recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorite snacks because it feels so indulgent yet is incredibly simple to make. The perfect balance of sweet, chewy, and crunchy in every bite will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds). Whether you share it with loved ones or savor it yourself, it’s truly one of those feel-good treats that brightens any day. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy this warm, nostalgic delight as much as I do!

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