How to make Caramel Popcorn without Corn Syrup

You're going to love my Grandmother's recipe for this AMAZING Caramel Popcorn! Salty popcorn, coated in a sweet caramel sauce is everyone's favorite treat! Learn How to make Caramel Popcorn without Corn Syrup - it's so easy! And so much better than store-bought!

Give this as a gift or a make a big batch for noshing on movie night!

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Equipment
• FAQ's
• Things to know
• Variations
• Storage
• Crunchy Caramel Popcorn Recipe

✔️ What's not to love is the first thing that comes to mind! 🤣

✔️ This tastes 100 times better than store bought and it's super simple to make.

✔️ It's a great snack and wonderful treat. This is great for teachers or holiday gifts too!

Ingredients

For the exact measurements, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. 

• homemade popcorn - though you can use microwave popcorn, why not make your own popcorn?!
• corn oil, peanut, coconut oil, vegetable oil or canola oil are best for popping as they have a high smoke point and are flavorless.
• light or dark brown sugar - they are interchangeable. I use light brown but dark brown sugar will lend a molasses flavor.

Instructions

This is an overview of the instructions. For the complete directions just scroll down to the bottom!

1. Add the oil and popcorn kernels to the pan.
2. Pop the popcorn, discard any unpopped kernels.
3. Make caramel sauce.
4. Prepare the cookie sheet, line with parchment paper or foil, set aside.
5. Pour half caramel mixture in the popped popcorn and mix.
6. Add the remaining homemade caramel sauce and mix well to combine.
7. Spread on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.

Equipment

The following are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.  

• Large rimmed baking sheet
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• I use a heavy bottom pan to make the popcorn, but an Air Popper popcorn maker works too!

FAQ's

Things to know

• To make good popcorn at home, use a heavy bottom pot and high heat. Add just enough oil to lightly cover the bottom of the pan. Add an even layer of kernels.
• When the "popping" slows to a pop ever couple of seconds, remove from heat so it doesn't scorch.
• This probably goes without saying, start with plain popcorn (not flavored popcorn).

Expert Tip: Be sure and line the sheet pan with foil or a silpat baking sheet for easy cleanup and to avoid a sticky mess!

Variations

Toss in a handful of peanuts and you'll have a treat better than Cracker Jacks - all you'll need is a fun toy surprise, right? Other options are adding sprinkles, m&m's or chocolate chips.

• How fun would it be to add candy corn, goldfish and chocolate chips for fall?
• For Christmas add red and white m&m's, candied nuts and chocolate covered pretzels - super cute and yummy!

Use your imagination and upgrade this easy caramel popcorn recipe for a super fun treat!

Storage

Store it in an air tight container or ziplock bag at zoom temperature.

You can even freeze leftovers up to three months. Just be sure to place them in an air-tight container.

More yummy candy recipes!

• Butterscotch Haystacks - if you can melt chocolate, you can make this treat! Great for a cookie exchange and a terrific sweet snack!
• Salted Nut Bars - if you like a payday, you'll love this recipe!
• My Grandma's recipe for Homemade Fudge is AMAZING! There are only three ingredients and it's perfectly smooth and creamy every time. Super easy to make, it's delicious!

Don't forget to check out my Amazon storefront for some of my favorite products! 🛍️

If you love this recipe please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!