Microwave Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn
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Movies and popcorn are a classic pairing—one of those simple joys that never gets old. I’m a big fan of buttery popcorn, especially the kind you get fresh from the movie theater. But when I’m watching a cozy movie at home, especially during the holidays, I often crave something a little more indulgent. That’s where this Microwave Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn comes in. It’s sweet, gooey, and ridiculously easy to make—no candy thermometer, no stovetop stirring, just pure caramel bliss in minutes.
With Thanksgiving week here and the holiday season right behind it, chances are you’ll be curling up with a movie at some point. And let’s be honest—what’s a movie night without popcorn? If you’re like me, you might get a sudden craving for caramel popcorn but not have the time (or patience) to make a traditional batch. Those microwave caramel popcorn packets from the store? I’ve tried them, and in my humble opinion, they don’t even come close. They’re dry, overly sweet, and lack that rich, gooey texture that makes caramel popcorn so irresistible.
There are some decent pre-popped versions out there, but they’re never hot, fresh, or melty. When you want that warm, sticky, just-made goodness, this recipe is your answer. It’s the one I grew up with, and after a little experimenting over the years, I’ve tweaked it to perfection. Best of all, it only takes four ingredients—one of which is a bag of microwave popcorn. You can use plain popcorn if you prefer, but I love using the Kirkland buttered and salted popcorn from Costco. It adds an extra layer of flavor that makes this treat even more addictive.
Once your popcorn is popped, pour it into a large bowl and tackle the most important step: remove the unpopped kernels. Trust me, you don’t want one of those hiding in your caramel-coated bites. They’re sneaky and can seriously ruin the fun (and your teeth).
From there, it’s just a quick melt-and-mix situation with butter, brown sugar, and marshmallows. A few minutes in the microwave and you’ve got a sticky, sweet caramel sauce ready to coat your popcorn. Stir it all together, and you’re done. It’s dangerously easy, and I’ve made it more times than I can count—especially during the holidays when I want something festive but fuss-free.
Fair warning: this recipe is highly addictive. But once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s worth every gooey bite.
Ingredients for Microwave Marshmallow Caramel corn
- MICROWAVE POPCORN (NATURAL OR SALTED)
- BUTTER
- BROWN SUGAR
- REGULAR SIZED MARSHMALLOWS
Ingredients for Microwave Caramel Marshmallow Popcorn
Start by popping a bag of microwave popcorn according to the package directions. Pour the popcorn into a large bowl and take a moment to remove any unpopped kernels—this step is important to avoid any unpleasant surprises in your caramel-coated bites.
In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and brown sugar. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Next, add in the marshmallows and microwave for another 1 minute. Stir again until the marshmallows are fully melted and the caramel sauce is thick and glossy.
Pour the warm marshmallow caramel mixture over the popcorn and gently toss to coat. Serve immediately for that irresistible hot-and-gooey texture, or let it cool slightly if you prefer a chewy crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use buttered popcorn?
You don’t have to, but I highly recommend it! Buttered and salted popcorn (like the Kirkland brand from Costco) adds extra flavor and balances the sweetness of the caramel. If you prefer plain or lightly salted popcorn, that works too.
Can I use air-popped or stovetop popcorn instead of microwave popcorn?
Absolutely. Just make sure you use about the same amount as a standard microwave bag (around 10 cups), and be sure to remove any unpopped kernels before adding the caramel.
What kind of marshmallows should I use?
Regular-sized marshmallows work best for melting evenly. You can also use mini marshmallows—just measure out the same amount by volume (about 2 cups).
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh while it’s still warm and gooey. If you do make it ahead, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It will firm up a bit, but still taste delicious.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to use a large enough bowl to mix everything, and microwave the caramel mixture in a bigger bowl to avoid overflow. You may need to stir and heat in shorter intervals to ensure even melting.
Is this recipe safe for kids to help with?
Kids can definitely help with picking out unpopped kernels and stirring the popcorn, but the caramel mixture gets very hot, so an adult should handle the microwaving and pouring steps.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Yes! Stir in extras like mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or candy pieces after coating the popcorn—just wait a minute or two so the caramel cools slightly and doesn’t melt everything.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
Microwave Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 bag microwave popcorn natural or salted
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 11 regular sized marshmallows
Instructions
- Pop bag of popcorn according to package directions. Pour into a large bowl and pick out any unpopped kernels.
- In a large microwave safe bowl, add the butter and sugar. Microwave for 1 minute and then stir until blended together.
- Add in the marshmallow and microwave for 1 minute. Stir until well combined.
- Pour mixture over popcorn and toss to coat.
Nutrition
