Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk

Name: Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 10 cups popped popcorn; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Quick Caramel Corn recipe is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of caramel with the crunch of popcorn. Perfect for movie nights or as a quick snack!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:21:37.658Z

This Quick Caramel Corn is not just a treat; it's a nostalgic memory wrapped in every crunchy bite. The sweetened condensed milk adds a creamy richness that takes this snack to a whole new level.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly crunchy and sweet
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo

      

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Caramel corn is a classic snack that never goes out of style. Whether you're hosting a movie night at home, celebrating a birthday, or just looking for a sweet treat to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite series, this Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk fits the bill perfectly. Its delightful combination of crunch and sweetness makes it an ideal option for both casual gatherings and special events.

Not only is this caramel corn delicious, but it also appeals to a wide range of taste preferences. From kids to adults, everyone can appreciate the rich flavor and satisfying texture. You can even customize it by adding nuts, chocolate drizzles, or other toppings for a personalized twist that elevates this simple treat into a gourmet experience!

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this Quick Caramel Corn recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. The use of sweetened condensed milk not only adds a rich flavor but also eliminates the need for complicated measuring or cooking techniques. This makes it an excellent choice for novice cooks and busy individuals alike.

In addition to being quick to prepare, this recipe is also highly adaptable. You can easily scale it up or down based on your needs, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Plus, if you have leftover popcorn, feel free to make more caramel corn! It's a great way to reduce waste and create a delicious snack that the whole family will love.

Storing and Enjoying Your Caramel Corn

Once you've made your delicious caramel corn, storing it properly is essential to maintain its crunchy texture. Allow the caramel corn to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help it stay fresh for several days, although it's likely to be eaten much sooner! If you want to keep it crunchy for longer, consider adding a silica gel packet to the container to absorb moisture.

Caramel corn is not just a snack; it's also a fantastic gift idea. Package it in decorative bags or jars and tie them with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. Friends and family will appreciate the gesture, and they'll surely be impressed by your culinary skills. Whether for holidays, birthdays, or just because, this caramel corn makes a delightful treat to share with others.

Ingredients

For the Caramel Corn

10 cups popped popcorn
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Make sure to use fresh popcorn for the best texture!

Instructions

Prepare Popcorn

Pop the popcorn using your preferred method and place it in a large mixing bowl, ensuring there are no unpopped kernels.

Make Caramel Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil and then let it boil for 2-3 minutes without stirring.

Add Flavorings

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up, so be careful!

Combine with Popcorn

Pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn and quickly stir to coat all the popcorn evenly.

Cool and Serve

Allow the caramel corn to cool for a few minutes before serving. It will become crunchy as it cools.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to use unsalted butter in this recipe? While unsalted butter is recommended for better control of the sweetness, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of the overall saltiness of the final product.

Can I make this caramel corn in advance? Yes, you can make this caramel corn a few days in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container to ensure it stays crunchy and fresh.

Tips for Perfect Caramel Corn

For the best results, use freshly popped popcorn. If you’re using microwave popcorn, opt for plain or lightly salted varieties to avoid overpowering the caramel flavor. Additionally, check for any unpopped kernels before mixing them with the caramel for a safe and enjoyable snack experience.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding additional flavors to your caramel corn. A sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the sweetness, or a dash of cinnamon can add a warm, comforting note. Experimenting with different flavor combinations can lead to new favorite variations!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes, microwave popcorn works well for this recipe. Just ensure it's plain or lightly salted.

→ How do I store the caramel corn?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just store it properly to keep it crunchy.

→ What can I add to the caramel corn?

Feel free to add nuts, mini marshmallows, or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture!