This Marshmallow Caramel Corn is everything you want in a homemade snack: crispy, chewy, buttery, and absolutely addictive.
It’s that nostalgic treat you remember from school fairs and movie nights—but even better when made fresh in your own kitchen.
With just a few pantry staples like popcorn, brown sugar, and marshmallows, this easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping movie snacks, or making holiday gifts, this sweet treat will win over everyone—kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
Minimal ingredients – Just popcorn, marshmallows, and caramel basics
Perfect for gifting – Package in jars or bags for holidays
Crowd-pleaser – Loved by both kids and grownups
Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate, or spices to make it your own
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Popped popcorn – Freshly popped for best crunch (about 12 cups)
Unsalted butter – Base of the caramel flavor
Brown sugar – Adds richness and a hint of molasses
Corn syrup – Keeps the caramel smooth and glossy
Marshmallows – Melt down to create that gooey, chewy texture
Vanilla extract – Balances the sweetness with warm flavor notes
Pro Tips Before You Start
Remove unpopped kernels – Saves your teeth and ensures even coating
Use a nonstick pot – Makes cleanup easier when working with sticky caramel
Work quickly – The caramel mixture sets fast once poured
Spray your tools – Use nonstick spray on your spoon or spatula to prevent sticking
Add-ins are welcome – Think chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, or chopped nuts
How to Make Marshmallow Caramel Corn
Step 1: Pop the Corn
Pop ½ cup kernels (about 12 cups).
Remove unpopped kernels and place in a large bowl.
Step 2: Make the Caramel
Melt ½ cup butter in a saucepan.
Add 1 cup brown sugar + 2 tbsp corn syrup.
Stir until smooth.
Add 10 oz marshmallows, stir until melted.
Remove from heat, mix in 1 tsp vanilla.
Step 3: Coat the Popcorn
Pour caramel over popcorn.
gently with a greased spatula to coat evenly.
Step 4: Let It Set
Spread on a foil-lined, greased baking sheet.
Cool 10–15 mins until set.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Break into clusters.
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Serving Suggestions
Movie night snack – Serve in bowls with napkins
Gift idea – Package in treat bags tied with ribbon
Party dessert – Add to a dessert table with mini tongs
Ice cream topping – Sprinkle over vanilla ice cream for crunch
Variations & Add-Ins
Add sea salt – Sprinkle over the top before cooling for a sweet-salty bite
Mix in nuts – Toasted pecans or peanuts add crunch and depth
Chocolate drizzle – Melted dark or white chocolate over the top
Holiday version – Add crushed candy canes or festive sprinkles
Spiced caramel – Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for warmth
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days
Avoid humidity – Moisture will soften the caramel
Do not freeze – The texture becomes chewy and sticky
Great for make-ahead – Prep 1–2 days before parties or gift-giving
FAQs
Can I use microwave popcorn?
Yes, just make sure it’s plain or lightly salted.
Avoid flavored or buttery varieties.
What’s the best way to melt the marshmallows evenly?
Keep the heat medium-low and stir constantly to prevent burning or clumping.
Can I use mini marshmallows instead of large ones?
Absolutely! Use about 6 cups of mini marshmallows to equal a 10 oz bag.
Why is my popcorn soggy?
Too much moisture in the caramel or not letting it set fully can make it soft.
Try baking it briefly if you want a crunchier texture.
Can I bake this caramel corn for extra crispiness?
Yes! Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 20–30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes for a crunchy version.
How do I prevent sticking when mixing the caramel and popcorn?
Spray your bowl and spoon with non-stick spray or lightly coat with butter.
Can I use flavored extracts?
Yes! Try almond or maple extract for a different twist.
Final Thoughts
This Marshmallow Caramel Corn is the ultimate sweet snack—simple to make, nostalgic to eat, and perfect for sharing.
Whether you’re gifting it, enjoying it during a cozy movie night, or bringing it to a party, it always disappears fast. One batch might not be enough!
Marshmallow Caramel Corn
Ingredients
- 12 cups popped popcorn about ½ cup kernels
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp light corn syrup
- 1 package 10 oz large marshmallows (about 35)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Pop popcorn, place in large bowl, remove unpopped kernels.
- Melt butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup in saucepan.
- Add marshmallows and stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Pour mixture over popcorn, toss to coat.
- Spread on greased foil-lined sheet, let set 10–15 mins.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://p4pd.org/marshmallow-caramel-corn/
Notes
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt over the caramel corn before it sets.
- Mix in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or drizzle with melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
- This treat is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
