Description
Classic marshmallow caramel corn delights snack enthusiasts with its irresistible sweet crunch. Homemade treats bring families together for memorable moments shared over this delectable midwest favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 cups popped popcorn (about 12 cup unpopped kernels)
- 1 package (10 oz / 280 g) large marshmallows (approximately 35 marshmallows)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- 2 tbsps light corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Kernel Preparation: Meticulously sort freshly popped corn, removing any unpopped kernels and creating a pristine base for caramel coating.
- Caramel Foundation: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt butter and seamlessly integrate brown sugar and corn syrup. Maintain constant stirring until the mixture transforms into a glossy, uniform caramel with fully dissolved sugar crystals.
- Marshmallow Integration: Reduce heat to low and gently fold marshmallows into the caramel base. Whisk continuously until achieving a silky-smooth texture. Remove from heat and enhance with vanilla extract, creating an aromatic flavor profile.
- Coating Technique: Pour the molten caramel-marshmallow blend over popcorn, using a silicone spatula to ensure comprehensive and even coverage of each kernel.
- Setting and Cooling: Transfer the glazed popcorn onto a foil-lined baking sheet sprayed with non-stick coating. Spread into a uniform layer, allowing the caramel to set and transform into a crisp, delicate shell at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
- Final Presentation: Once completely solidified, gently separate the popcorn into rustic clusters, ready for immediate enjoyment or storage in an airtight container to maintain optimal crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Manage Popcorn Quality: Remove all unpopped kernels to prevent unexpected hard bites and ensure a smooth, enjoyable snacking experience.
- Control Caramel Temperature: Maintain medium-low heat while stirring to prevent burning, which can create bitter undertones and ruin the delicate sweetness of the caramel-marshmallow blend.
- Prevent Sticky Situations: Use a non-stick spatula or lightly oil your utensils to minimize sticking and make mixing and transferring the coated popcorn easier and cleaner.
- Storage Strategy: Keep the marshmallow caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness, consuming within 2-3 days to maintain its crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 11
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 19 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg