Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk

Name: Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 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; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

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 snack for gatherings!

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:35:55.952Z

This Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk is a family favorite that brings joy to any occasion. The combination of crispy popcorn and rich caramel creates a deliciously addictive snack.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make in just 25 minutes
Rich, buttery caramel flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a personal treat

      

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Caramel corn is a classic treat that transcends generations. Whether you're hosting a movie night, a birthday party, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk is the ideal snack. Its delightful crunch combined with a sweet, buttery flavor is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add a touch of sweetness to your gatherings.

One of the great advantages of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, chocolate drizzles, or even spices like cinnamon for an extra kick. This adaptability makes it not just a snack but also a fun project for the family. Get the kids involved in mixing and decorating to create a memorable experience.

Quick and Easy Preparation

In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch of this delicious caramel corn. The recipe simplifies the traditional caramel-making process, making it accessible even for novice cooks. With just a few common ingredients and minimal equipment, you can create a treat that rivals store-bought versions, saving money while impressing your friends and family.

This recipe requires minimal cleanup, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. You can prepare the popcorn in advance and make the caramel sauce just before serving for a fresh and warm treat. It's the perfect solution for those unexpected snack cravings!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your caramel corn has cooled and been broken into pieces, it's best enjoyed fresh, but you can also store it in an airtight container. This makes it an ideal make-ahead option for parties or as a sweet gift for friends and family. Properly stored, it can last for several days, retaining its delicious flavor and crunch.

For serving, consider placing your caramel corn in decorative bags or jars to create charming party favors or snack gifts. You can even pair it with savory snacks for a fun sweet-and-salty mix. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, this treat is sure to be a hit!

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
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to use fresh popcorn for the best texture!

Instructions

Prepare the Popcorn

Begin by popping your popcorn according to the package instructions. Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl and set aside.

Make the Caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Once boiling, allow it to cook without stirring for 5 minutes.

Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine with Popcorn

Pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and quickly mix until all the popcorn is evenly coated.

Cool and Serve

Spread the caramel corn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow it to cool before breaking it into pieces. Serve and enjoy!

This caramel corn is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe? Absolutely! Microwave popcorn works beautifully for this caramel corn recipe. Just ensure that it’s plain or lightly salted to complement the sweetness of the caramel.

What can I add to the caramel corn? The possibilities are endless! Feel free to mix in nuts like peanuts or almonds, add chocolate chips, or sprinkle in some sea salt for a delightful contrast to the sweetness. Experimenting with flavors can elevate your caramel corn to new heights!

Tips for the Best Caramel Corn

To achieve the perfect caramel texture, keep an eye on the boiling stage. Allowing the mixture to boil without stirring for the full five minutes is crucial for developing that rich, buttery flavor. Stirring too soon can result in a grainy texture instead of a smooth, glossy caramel.

If you're looking for a more intense flavor, consider using brown sugar with a higher molasses content or adding a pinch of baking soda to the caramel mixture. This will not only enhance the taste but also give your caramel corn a lighter, crispier texture.

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 can I store leftover caramel corn?

Store any leftover caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can add a pinch of cinnamon or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist!