Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk is a delightful treat that's easy to make and perfect for sharing.

Sabrina Holt

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:28:26.664Z

This caramel corn recipe is a sweet and crunchy snack that can be made in no time. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a sweet treat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
  • Irresistible sweet and buttery flavor
  • Perfect for snacking or gifting

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk is not just a snack; it’s a versatile treat that fits any occasion. Whether you're hosting a movie night, throwing a birthday bash, or simply looking for a delectable afternoon pick-me-up, this caramel corn is sure to please. Its sweet and buttery flavor is a delightful contrast to the crunchy popcorn, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike.

With its easy preparation and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover popcorn from your last movie marathon. Simply follow the steps, and you’ll have a delicious caramel corn ready to enjoy or share with friends and family.

A Sweet and Buttery Flavor Explosion

What sets this caramel corn apart is the rich combination of sweetened condensed milk and brown sugar. This duo creates a creamy, luscious caramel sauce that clings perfectly to each popcorn kernel. The addition of unsalted butter enhances the richness, while a hint of vanilla extract elevates the flavor profile, making every bite a delightful experience.

This recipe also allows for customization. Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as nuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavor even further. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily tailor this treat to suit your taste preferences.

Gift-Worthy Treats

If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift idea, this Quick Caramel Corn is a perfect choice! It can be packaged in cute jars or bags and tied with a ribbon for a charming presentation. Homemade treats always carry a personal touch, and this caramel corn is no exception. Friends and family will appreciate the effort and love that went into creating such a delicious gift.

Moreover, this treat can be made in bulk, making it ideal for holiday gifts or party favors. Just remember to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy. Whether for a special occasion or just because, this caramel corn is a sweet gesture that’s sure to bring smiles.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

  • 10 cups popped popcorn
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your caramel corn:

Prepare the Popcorn

In a large bowl, combine the popped popcorn and set aside.

Make the Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes.

Combine Popcorn and Caramel

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn and mix until well coated.

Cool and Serve

Spread the caramel-coated popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow to cool before serving.

Enjoy your homemade caramel corn as a delicious snack!

Tips for Perfect Caramel Corn

To achieve the best results with your caramel corn, make sure your popcorn is fully popped and free from unpopped kernels before mixing it with the caramel sauce. This will ensure a delightful crunch and prevent any surprises while snacking. Using fresh popcorn also enhances the overall flavor of your treat.

Additionally, be attentive while making the caramel sauce. Stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning, and keep an eye on the temperature. It should bubble gently but not boil over. Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency, act quickly to mix it with the popcorn, as it will thicken as it cools.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once your Quick Caramel Corn is prepared and cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its crunchy texture and prevent it from becoming stale. Proper storage can keep your caramel corn fresh for up to two weeks, although it’s likely to be devoured much sooner!

If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the caramel corn. Simply place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours, and you’ll have a delicious snack ready to go.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes, microwave popcorn works well, just make sure it's unsalted.

→ How should I store caramel corn?

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

→ Can I add nuts to the caramel corn?

Absolutely! Adding nuts like peanuts or almonds enhances the flavor and texture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free popcorn, this recipe is gluten-free.

Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk

This Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk is a delightful treat that's easy to make and perfect for sharing.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Sabrina Holt

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 10 cups popped popcorn
  2. 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  3. 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  4. 1 cup brown sugar
  5. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. 1/4 teaspoon salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine the popped popcorn and set aside.

Step 02

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes.

Step 03

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn and mix until well coated.

Step 04

Spread the caramel-coated popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow to cool before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 16g
  • Protein: 2g