Learn how to make a homemade caramel popcorn recipe with just a few simple ingredients. It’s sweet, buttery, salty, crunchy, and irresistible. Make a big batch in minutes for movie nights, party snacks, and gifts!
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two large baking sheets with a silicone baking mat.
Spread the popped popcorn evenly across the prepared baking sheet, and set it aside. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup.
Whisk the mixture constantly until the butter has melted and the brown sugar has dissolved. While continuing to whisk, add the vanilla, salt, and baking soda to the caramel mixture.
Remove the saucepan from heat once the caramel has thickened and takes on a lighter, fluffier texture. Pour the caramel over the popcorn and, working quickly, use a spatula to toss the popcorn.
Place in oven, and bake for 3 or 4 intervals of 15 minutes each, resulting in a total baking time of 45 minutes. At each 15-minute interval, remove the baking sheet from the oven and toss.
Transfer the baked caramel popcorn to the second baking sheet to cool. Use a spatula to break up any lumps that may have formed.
Once completely cooled, store the caramel popcorn in an airtight container to maintain its freshness for up to 2-3 weeks.