Gooey Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn is the ultimate indulgent snack that combines a sweet, gooey coating with the satisfying crunch of popcorn. This treat is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth and is particularly popular during cozy nights, movie marathons, or family gatherings. With its blend of textures and flavors, this popcorn treat is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s easy to make, with a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it an ideal go-to recipe for impromptu cravings or special occasions.

Ingredient Overview and Substitutes

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s a quick look at the key ingredients and some suggested substitutes:

Popcorn: This recipe calls for 13 to 16 cups of lightly salted, pre-popped popcorn. Using store-bought options like Skinny Pop is convenient, but you can also pop fresh popcorn at home. Lightly salted popcorn balances the sweetness of the marshmallow caramel coating, creating a delectable sweet-salty contrast.
Butter: Butter is essential for the rich, smooth caramel flavor that brings this recipe to life. Using high-quality butter enhances the popcorn’s overall taste and texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute margarine or a vegan butter alternative.
Mini Marshmallows: Marshmallows are the primary ingredient for creating the gooey, sticky coating. They melt smoothly into the butter, giving the popcorn its signature texture. For a vegan option, look for dairy-free marshmallows made with alternative gelatin.
Light Brown Sugar: Brown sugar deepens the caramel flavor, giving the popcorn a warm, toasty sweetness. It’s best to use light brown sugar, as it blends easily into the marshmallow mixture. If you prefer a less refined option, coconut sugar can be substituted, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
Optional Toppings: Customize your popcorn with optional additions like vanilla extract, flake sea salt, or M&Ms. Vanilla adds a hint of extra flavor to the caramel, while flake sea salt provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness. M&Ms add a pop of color and an extra touch of chocolate, making the popcorn even more irresistible.

With these ingredients, you’ll have everything you need to create a delicious batch of gooey marshmallow caramel popcorn, perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Popcorn

To start, measure out 13 to 16 cups of popcorn. If you’re using pre-popped popcorn, such as Skinny Pop, pour the popcorn into a large mixing bowl and sift through to remove any unpopped kernels. Unpopped kernels can disrupt the smooth texture of the caramel popcorn and are unpleasant to bite into, so taking this step is essential.

For a balanced flavor, use lightly salted popcorn. Lightly salted popcorn complements the sweetness of the marshmallow caramel mixture, creating a sweet-salty balance. If you’re popping the popcorn fresh, add a pinch of salt after popping, or use a light sprinkle before mixing in the caramel coating.

Step 2: Melting the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large saucepan or heavy-bottomed pot, melt 1 cup of butter over medium-low heat. It’s essential to use medium-low heat to avoid burning the butter, as burnt butter can affect the flavor of the final product. Stir the butter occasionally to help it melt evenly.

Once the butter has melted completely, add 16 ounces of mini marshmallows to the pan. Stir continuously to prevent the marshmallows from sticking to the bottom and burning. The goal is to melt the marshmallows until they form a smooth, thick mixture with the butter, without any lumps. This step can take a few minutes, so be patient and keep stirring.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. If you choose to add vanilla, stir it in right after the marshmallows have melted. The heat will help the vanilla integrate fully, enhancing the aroma and flavor of the caramel mixture.

Step 3: Adding the Brown Sugar

Once the marshmallows have melted completely and the mixture is smooth, it’s time to add ¾ cup of light brown sugar. Adding brown sugar at this stage creates a caramel-like flavor that brings warmth and depth to the popcorn coating. Brown sugar is essential for achieving a rich caramel taste and slightly chewy texture.

Stir the brown sugar into the melted marshmallow and butter mixture. Continue stirring for about 1 minute or until the sugar dissolves. Visually, you’ll want the mixture to be smooth without any visible granules of sugar. The mixture should start to look glossy and thick, with a warm golden color. This step is quick, so be careful not to overcook, as the caramel can start to harden if it’s heated for too long.

Step 4: Coating the Popcorn

Now that your gooey marshmallow caramel mixture is ready, it’s time to coat the popcorn. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popcorn in the large mixing bowl. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss the popcorn, ensuring that each kernel is evenly coated with the caramel mixture.

For an even coating, work quickly and use broad, gentle stirring motions to prevent the popcorn from breaking. If you find the coating too thick, you can add more popcorn, up to the maximum 16-cup mark, to lighten the coverage. Adding extra popcorn will give a thinner coating, which can be desirable if you prefer a more subtle caramel flavor.

The caramel mixture will start to firm up as it cools, so it’s essential to complete this step promptly. Gently toss and stir until all of the popcorn is coated, scraping the sides of the bowl to ensure no caramel is left behind.

Step 5: Adding Toppings and Setting the Popcorn

Once the popcorn is thoroughly coated, it’s time to add any toppings. Lay a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper on a clean, flat surface and spread the caramel-coated popcorn in a single layer. This step allows the popcorn to cool evenly without clumping together, making it easier to snack on once it’s set.

If you enjoy a sweet-salty contrast, sprinkle a pinch of flake sea salt over the warm popcorn. The salt will enhance the sweetness and add a satisfying crunch. For a pop of color and an extra layer of sweetness, sprinkle ½ cup of mini M&Ms over the popcorn while it’s still warm. This will allow the M&Ms to adhere slightly to the caramel coating without melting entirely.

Allow the popcorn to cool for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s firm to the touch. The caramel coating should harden slightly, giving each piece of popcorn a satisfyingly sticky, chewy texture. Once the popcorn has cooled, break it into clusters for easy snacking.

For storage, transfer the popcorn to an airtight container once it has completely cooled. This will help keep it fresh for several days, although it’s so delicious that it might not last that long!

Tips and Variations

Texture Adjustments

For those who love an extra-gooey caramel popcorn, try increasing the marshmallow content slightly by about a ¼ cup. The added marshmallows will result in a softer, more pliable coating, giving each bite an extra-sticky texture. Alternatively, to achieve a firmer caramel consistency, reduce the marshmallow quantity by ¼ cup or add an extra tablespoon of butter, which will help the caramel set with a slightly crispier texture. Adjusting these ingredients allows you to customize the chewiness and density of the coating to match your personal preference.

Flavor Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: To add a layer of chocolatey richness, melt about ½ cup of chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white) and drizzle it over the popcorn once it has cooled slightly. Allow the chocolate to harden before serving for a delicious blend of caramel and chocolate flavors.
Nutty Caramel Popcorn: For a bit of crunch and a hint of nuttiness, mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts before spreading the popcorn on wax paper. The nuts complement the sweet caramel coating, adding a satisfying contrast to the gooey texture.
Holiday Variations: Customize your caramel popcorn for different occasions by using seasonal M&Ms or colored sprinkles. For instance, red and green M&Ms or festive sprinkles add a holiday flair, while pastel colors work well for springtime treats. These additions make the popcorn visually appealing and fun for themed gatherings.

Storage Tips

To keep your gooey marshmallow caramel popcorn fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as this can harden the popcorn and alter the texture of the caramel. Properly stored in a cool, dry place, the popcorn can stay fresh for up to 3-5 days. For the best crunch and flavor, consume it within the first few days of making it.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Occasions for Serving

Gooey Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn is a versatile treat that suits a variety of occasions. Its sweet and festive flavor makes it an ideal snack for holiday gatherings, whether it’s Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas. The popcorn is also perfect for cozy movie nights, bringing a fun twist to traditional popcorn with its rich caramel coating. It’s equally well-suited for parties or game nights, as the bite-sized clusters are easy to snack on while mingling. Additionally, this popcorn can be packaged in decorative bags or jars, making it a thoughtful homemade gift for friends, family, or neighbors.

Pairing Ideas

For a complete snacking experience, pair this gooey caramel popcorn with complementary drinks and snacks. Hot chocolate or spiced apple cider are excellent beverage choices that enhance the caramel flavor and add warmth, especially during colder months. For a balanced snack spread, consider adding a bowl of mixed nuts or a tray of fresh apple slices. The freshness of the fruit and the savory crunch of nuts create a delightful contrast to the popcorn’s sweetness, making for a satisfying and well-rounded treat lineup. These pairings elevate the popcorn to an unforgettable snacking experience perfect for sharing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, you can substitute regular marshmallows for mini marshmallows. Use about 10-12 large marshmallows to replace 1 cup of mini marshmallows. However, mini marshmallows tend to melt more quickly and evenly, so keep an eye on the mixture to ensure a smooth consistency when using larger marshmallows.

What if I don’t have light brown sugar?
If you don’t have light brown sugar, you can use dark brown sugar, though it will create a slightly deeper, more intense caramel flavor. Alternatively, white granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses can substitute for light brown sugar in a pinch. Coconut sugar is another option for a more natural flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make this recipe vegan, use dairy-free butter and vegan marshmallows. Vegan marshmallows, which are gelatin-free, may have a slightly different texture but will still create a deliciously gooey caramel coating.

How long will this caramel popcorn stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, caramel popcorn can stay fresh for 3-5 days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, consume it within the first few days.

Can I add other types of candy or toppings?
Absolutely! This popcorn is customizable. Try adding chocolate chips, Reese’s pieces, toffee bits, or seasonal sprinkles to suit different occasions and flavor preferences. Toppings can be added to the warm popcorn for a unique twist on this sweet treat.

Can I make this popcorn ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this popcorn a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. Avoid making it too far in advance, as it’s best enjoyed within a few days of preparation.

Is there a way to prevent the popcorn from sticking together?
Spreading the coated popcorn in a single layer on wax or parchment paper will help it cool evenly and prevent excessive clumping. If you find the popcorn is sticking too much, you can also toss it lightly with a bit of powdered sugar once it has fully cooled to help reduce stickiness.

Can I reheat the popcorn if it gets too hard?
If the popcorn has hardened too much, you can reheat it briefly in the microwave. Spread it out on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 10-second intervals until it softens slightly. However, be careful not to overheat, as it may affect the texture of the caramel coating.

What type of popcorn is best for this recipe?
Lightly salted, plain popcorn works best, as it balances the sweet caramel coating. Avoid heavily buttered or flavored popcorn, as it can interfere with the recipe’s flavor and texture.

Gooey Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn

Author: Christophe
Total Time: 30 minutes

Print Recipe

Description

This Gooey Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn is a deliciously sticky and sweet snack that’s perfect for movie nights or parties. Made with a marshmallow-butter base, it creates a softer caramel coating that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Add a sprinkle of sea salt or M&Ms for extra flair!

Ingredients

Scale

13 to 16 cups popcorn, lightly salted (pre-popped like Skinny Pop works great)
1 cup butter
16 oz mini marshmallows
¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
Optional toppings: ½ tsp vanilla extract, flake sea salt, ½ cup mini M&Ms

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the popcorn: Pour 13-16 cups of popped popcorn into a large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.

2️⃣ Melt the butter and marshmallows: In a large pan over medium-low heat, melt 1 cup of butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.

3️⃣ Add brown sugar: Stir in ¾ cup of brown sugar to the melted marshmallow mixture. Continue stirring for about 1 minute, until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and add ½ teaspoon vanilla, if desired.

4️⃣ Coat the popcorn: Pour the marshmallow caramel mixture over the popcorn. Stir gently until all the popcorn is coated evenly. Add more popcorn if you prefer a lighter coating.

5️⃣ Spread and add toppings: Spread the coated popcorn onto a sheet of wax paper in a single layer. Sprinkle with flake sea salt or M&Ms, if desired.

Notes

Extra Crunch: If you like your popcorn a little crunchier, bake it at 250°F for 15 minutes on a lined baking sheet after coating it.
Flavor Variations: Try using flavored marshmallows or adding a pinch of cinnamon for a twist.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the popcorn soft and gooey.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes