Name: Marshmallow Caramel Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 cups Popped Popcorn (Plain, unsalted); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter ((1 stick)); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Packed); 2 tablespoons Light Corn Syrup; 10 oz Large Marshmallows ((about 35 pieces)); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s chewy, gooey, and perfectly crunchy, you’re in for a real treat with this Marshmallow Caramel Corn recipe! It’s ideal for movie nights, holiday get-togethers, or just as a fun family activity that even kids can help with. Best of all, making homemade caramel corn is surprisingly easy—and much more delicious than store-bought options. Think of it as a popcorn upgrade with an irresistible sweet twist. If you’ve enjoyed our classic Buttery Popcorn recipe, this sweet-salty mashup will take your snack game to the next level. Ready to add some gooey goodness to your day? Let’s dive in!

What is Marshmallow Caramel Corn?

You might be wondering—what exactly is Marshmallow Caramel Corn? It sounds like something from a candy shop, doesn’t it? Think buttery popcorn coated in rich, golden caramel, then made extra gooey and decadent with melted marshmallows. It’s like the lovechild of caramel corn and Rice Krispies treats! As the saying goes, “The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach,” and this sweet snack definitely makes its way there fast. It’s a fun twist on traditional caramel popcorn, and it’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn Recipe

A Perfect Sweet and Salty Combo

This snack delivers the best of both worlds—sweet caramel and salty popcorn wrapped in a gooey marshmallow hug. Every bite is a fun, flavorful explosion!

Quick, Easy, and Budget-Friendly

Homemade caramel corn sounds fancy, but this version is foolproof. With basic pantry staples and about 30 minutes of your time, you can make a crowd-pleasing treat without spending a fortune.

Versatile and Customizable

Feel like adding nuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of white chocolate? Go for it! This base recipe is endlessly adaptable, just like our ever-popular Chocolate Popcorn Clusters.

How to Make Marshmallow Caramel Corn

Quick Overview

This easy marshmallow popcorn recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish and only uses one pot! It’s great for beginners, and the reward is a giant bowl of crunchy, chewy, caramel-coated popcorn that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

8 cups popped popcorn (plain, unsalted)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1 bag (10 oz) large marshmallows (about 35 pieces)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pop the Popcorn
Use an air popper or stovetop method. Transfer 8 cups of popped corn to a large bowl. Be sure to remove unpopped kernels to avoid unwanted crunches!
Make the Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil and simmer undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to allow the sugar to caramelize.
Add Marshmallows and Vanilla
Remove the pot from heat and stir in marshmallows and vanilla. Stir continuously until the marshmallows melt and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Coat the Popcorn
Immediately pour the caramel-marshmallow mixture over the popcorn. Using a spatula, toss until all the popcorn is well coated.
Cool and Serve
Spread the coated popcorn onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it cool completely, then break it into clusters and serve.

What to Serve Marshmallow Caramel Corn With

This gooey treat is amazing on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it alongside:

Hot chocolate – the rich cocoa complements the caramel sweetness
Fresh fruit platters – for a light, juicy contrast
Savory snack mix – like pretzels or roasted nuts for a sweet-and-salty balance
Lemonade or iced tea – refreshing drinks that cleanse the palate

Perfect for parties, picnics, or cozy nights in!

Top Tips for Perfecting Marshmallow Caramel Corn

Use Plain Popcorn: Skip the buttered microwave kind. Air-popped or stovetop popcorn gives the best texture and flavor balance.
Work Quickly: The caramel sets fast, so stir and coat the popcorn as soon as the sauce is ready.
Keep It Fresh: Store in an airtight container once cooled to maintain crunch and chewiness.
Add Extras: Toss in peanuts, almonds, or mini chocolate chips before the mixture cools for added flavor and fun.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storage: Place cooled caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in zip-top bags or airtight containers for up to 2 months.
To Reheat: Pop it in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive the gooey texture (optional but so satisfying!).

FAQs

Can I use mini marshmallows instead of large?
Yes! Use about 4 cups of mini marshmallows in place of 35 large ones.

Can I add flavor variations?
Absolutely! Try cinnamon, sea salt, or even cocoa powder for a twist.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure the popcorn is certified gluten-free and you’re good to go!

Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely—just store it properly and it stays delicious for days.

Conclusion

Marshmallow Caramel Corn is the kind of treat that brings joy in every bite. Whether you’re prepping snacks for a party, a movie night, or simply craving something sweet and fun, this recipe delivers big on taste and texture. It’s easy, quick, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients, get popping, and prepare for a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!