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

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Caramel Corn is a delightful treat that combines the crunchiness of popcorn with the rich sweetness of caramel made with sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for parties or a cozy movie night!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2025-12-18T16:07:39.923Z

This Quick Caramel Corn is a game-changer for snack lovers! Using sweetened condensed milk not only simplifies the caramel-making process but also adds a creamy richness that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to please!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly crunchy texture with a buttery caramel coating
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a cozy snack

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying a movie night at home, Quick Caramel Corn is the ideal treat. Its irresistible combination of crunchy popcorn and sweet caramel will delight guests of all ages. You can easily whip up a batch to share or keep it all for yourself—no judgment here!

This recipe is especially great for gatherings where you need a snack that everyone will love. It’s a versatile option that pairs well with other treats, making it a fantastic addition to any dessert table. Plus, it’s easy to transport, so you can take it along for picnics or road trips.

A Simple and Fun Recipe

One of the best features of this Quick Caramel Corn recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that tastes like it came from a gourmet candy shop. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your creation with friends and family.

Making caramel corn can be a fun activity to do with kids or friends. Everyone can get involved, from popping the corn to mixing it with the caramel sauce. It’s a great way to bond and create lasting memories while indulging in a sweet, crunchy snack.

Storing Your Caramel Corn

If you find yourself with leftover caramel corn (though it’s unlikely!), storing it properly is key to maintaining its fresh taste and crunchy texture. Place the cooled caramel corn in an airtight container to keep it from getting stale. It can last for up to a week, but we recommend enjoying it within the first few days for the best flavor.

For longer storage, consider freezing the caramel corn. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours before munching. This way, you can always have a sweet treat on hand!

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 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to use freshly popped popcorn for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Popcorn

Pop the popcorn using your preferred method and place it in a large mixing bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels.

Make the Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until melted and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

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

Combine Caramel with Popcorn

Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and gently mix until all the popcorn is evenly coated.

Cool and Serve

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

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh!

Tips for the Best Caramel Corn

To elevate your Quick Caramel Corn, consider adding your favorite nuts or chocolate chips. Pecans or almonds add a delightful crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramel. If you're a chocolate lover, drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled corn can take this treat to the next level.

Make sure to stir the caramel sauce continuously while it cooks to prevent burning. The ideal consistency is thick yet pourable, which ensures that it perfectly coats each piece of popcorn. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Quick Caramel Corn in cute bags or jars makes for an excellent party favor. You can personalize the packaging with ribbons or labels, making it a thoughtful gift for friends or co-workers. This adds a special touch and shows how much you care.

For a fun twist, consider using flavored popcorn instead of traditional buttered popcorn. Cheddar or kettle corn can introduce unique flavors to your caramel corn, creating a sweet and savory experience that’s sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes, microwave popcorn works well, but make sure to choose a plain or lightly salted variety for the best flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the caramel corn a day ahead. Just make sure it's stored properly.

→ What other flavors can I add?

Feel free to experiment with flavors! A sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of chocolate, or even some crushed pretzels can add a fun twist.