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: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 cups popped popcorn; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Discover the delightful sweetness of Quick Caramel Corn made with sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat for gatherings.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:31:03.185Z

Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk is a delightful snack that combines the crunch of popcorn with a rich caramel coating. This recipe is not only fast to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation in just 25 minutes
Irresistibly sweet caramel coating
Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a snack

      

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk is not just a treat; it's a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night with friends, or simply indulging in a cozy evening at home, this caramel corn is sure to impress. Its sweet, buttery flavor and delightful crunch make it a snack that appeals to all ages. You can even package it in festive bags for a fun party favor or serve it in a big bowl for everyone to enjoy!

What sets this caramel corn recipe apart is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a delicious homemade treat that is far superior to store-bought alternatives. The use of sweetened condensed milk adds a rich creaminess that enhances the caramel flavor, making it irresistibly mouthwatering. Plus, the quick baking step gives the caramel a delightful crunch that will keep you coming back for more.

Tips for the Best Caramel Corn

To achieve the best results with your Quick Caramel Corn, ensure that your popcorn is freshly popped. If you have an air popper, it’s ideal as it keeps the popcorn light and fluffy. Be sure to remove any unpopped kernels, as they can be a choking hazard and detract from the overall experience. Additionally, using high-quality butter and brown sugar will enhance the flavor of your caramel, making it even more delectable.

Another helpful tip is to stir the caramel constantly while it boils. This prevents it from burning and ensures a smooth, even consistency. If you find that your caramel is too thick after boiling, you can add a splash of milk to thin it out slightly before coating the popcorn. Remember, the key to a perfectly coated caramel corn is to act quickly while the caramel is hot!

Storage and Shelf Life

Ingredients

For the Caramel Corn

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

Make sure to measure all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Popcorn

Pop the popcorn using your preferred method and place it in a large bowl. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels.

Make the Caramel Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to boil. Let it boil for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.

Coat the Popcorn

Remove the caramel from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the hot caramel over the popcorn and mix well until all the popcorn is coated.

Bake and Cool

Spread the caramel-coated popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.

Once cooled, break the popcorn into pieces and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Quick Caramel Corn is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a fun twist, consider adding chocolate drizzle on top for a decadent touch. Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle them over the cooled caramel corn for an extra layer of flavor. You could also mix in nuts or pretzels to add a contrasting crunch and a touch of saltiness that complements the sweet caramel.

For gatherings, serve the caramel corn in festive bowls or individually in treat bags tied with ribbons. This not only makes for an attractive presentation but also allows guests to grab a bag and enjoy it on the go. Pair it with a refreshing beverage, such as apple cider or soda, for the perfect snack spread.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are countless ways to customize your Quick Caramel Corn. If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel mixture for a warm, cozy flavor. For a more tropical twist, try incorporating coconut flakes or dried fruit to introduce a fruity sweetness that pairs beautifully with the caramel.

For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel. This unexpected kick can elevate the flavor profile and create a unique sweet-and-spicy snack that will surprise and delight your taste buds. Experimenting with different flavors allows you to make this quick caramel corn your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use microwave popcorn?

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

→ How long can I store caramel corn?

You can store caramel corn in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

→ Can I add nuts to the caramel corn?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like peanuts or almonds can add a nice crunch.

→ Is there a substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

You can make a homemade version by simmering milk with sugar, but it may take longer.