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 brown sugar; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk is a delicious and easy snack that's perfect for movie nights or parties.

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:10:59.127Z

This Quick Caramel Corn is an irresistible treat that combines the sweetness of caramel with the crunchiness of popcorn. Using sweetened condensed milk makes the caramel creamy and rich, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes
Sweetened condensed milk gives a rich and creamy caramel
Perfect for snacking during movie nights or parties
Can be easily customized with nuts or chocolate

      

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Caramel corn is a classic treat that brings joy to people of all ages. Whether you're hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or watching your favorite film, this Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk is the ideal snack. Its sweet, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the crunch of popcorn, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up a batch of this delicious caramel corn in under 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.

Customizable and Fun

One of the great things about this caramel corn recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want a nutty flavor? Toss in some roasted peanuts or almonds. Feeling adventurous? Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the finished product for an extra layer of indulgence.

This recipe also lends itself well to different flavor combinations. You can experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy twist. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun project for both kids and adults alike!

Storing Your Caramel Corn

Once your caramel corn has cooled, you might be wondering how to store it. To keep it fresh and crunchy, place the cooled caramel corn in an airtight container. It can last for up to a week, although it's unlikely to last that long once your friends and family get a taste of it!

If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, consider separating the caramel corn into smaller portions. This not only makes it easier to share but also helps maintain its freshness. You can even make cute gift bags for friends or neighbors, spreading the joy of this delightful snack.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful treat:

Ingredients

8 cups popped popcorn
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt

Ensure all ingredients are measured before starting for a smoother preparation.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your caramel corn:

Prepare the Popcorn

Pop the popcorn using an air popper or stovetop method. Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels.

Make the Caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 5 minutes without stirring.

Add Flavorings

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

Combine with Popcorn

Pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and quickly stir to coat all the popcorn evenly. Make sure all pieces are covered.

Cool and Serve

Spread the caramel-coated popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade caramel corn as a tasty snack!

Tips for Perfect Caramel Corn

To achieve the best results with your caramel corn, use freshly popped popcorn. The fluffiness of freshly popped popcorn helps it absorb the caramel better, ensuring that every bite is deliciously coated. You can use an air popper or stovetop method—just make sure to remove any unpopped kernels before combining with the caramel.

When making the caramel, be attentive to the boiling time. Allowing it to boil for exactly 5 minutes without stirring is crucial for achieving the right consistency. If you cook it for too long, the caramel may become too hard, and if not long enough, it could be too soft. A perfect balance is essential for that delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions

For a festive touch, consider serving your caramel corn in fun, colorful bowls or bags. This not only enhances the presentation but also makes it more inviting for guests. Pair it with other snacks like pretzels or nuts to create a delightful snack mix that everyone can enjoy.

If you're hosting a movie night, set up a popcorn bar where guests can add their favorite toppings to their caramel corn. Provide options like sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavor. This interactive element is sure to be a hit, making your movie night even more memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?

No, sweetened condensed milk is thicker and sweeter than regular milk, which is essential for the caramel's texture and flavor.

→ How should I store leftover caramel corn?

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

→ Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or even sprinkle some sea salt for a sweet-salty flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for parties?

Absolutely! This caramel corn is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for sharing at parties or gatherings.