Quick Caramel Corn with Sweetened Condensed Milk
This Quick Caramel Corn recipe uses sweetened condensed milk to create a rich, creamy caramel that perfectly coats every popcorn kernel. It’s a fast, easy, and versatile snack that is ideal for movie nights, parties, or gifting.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup kernels)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or peanuts)
Instructions
- Pop 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels to yield about 10 cups of popcorn. Remove unpopped kernels and transfer the popcorn to a large heatproof bowl.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, and 1 cup brown sugar.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning.
- Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until it thickens and turns a golden caramel color.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Slowly pour the warm caramel sauce over the prepared popcorn. Fold gently with a spatula to coat each kernel evenly.
- If desired, add 1/2 cup chopped nuts for extra flavor and crunch.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the coated popcorn evenly across the sheet to cool and set.
- Let the caramel corn cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, break apart any large clusters. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
Ensure continuous stirring when cooking caramel to avoid burning.
Customize by adding chocolate drizzle, cinnamon, or sea salt for extra flavor.
Avoid refrigeration to maintain crispiness.