Irresistible Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn

As seen on: Delicious Dessert Recipes

Switch up your plain popcorn by rolling it around in a sweet marshmallow caramel shell. Seriously quick—just 15 minutes—perfect for your next movie binge.

emilyscooks.com
Shared By Emily
Last revised on Wed, 23 Jul 2025 10:07:36 GMT
Big bowl of caramel-drenched popcorn right by a sunny window. Save this
Big bowl of caramel-drenched popcorn right by a sunny window. | emilyscooks.com

Here's my top pick for cozy movie nights—Caramel Marshmallow Popcorn! It's a messy, gooey blend of marshmallows and caramel-coated popcorn, making it absolutely addictive. Whip it up super fast, and I promise it'll be gone before you know it.

Irresistible Marshmallow Popcorn

This snack is awesome because it’s like mixing up marshmallow bars with classic caramel popcorn. It doesn’t take much time, you only need a handful of pantry staples, and there’s no tricky candy gear or oven required. What you get? Chewy, buttery, super sweet delight in every handful.

What Goes In It

  • Sweet Layer:
    • Light brown sugar
    • Corn syrup (light)
    • Butter
  • Main Crunch:
    • 12 cups popcorn, popped (from about half a cup of kernels)
  • Sticky Stuff:
    • Regular-sized marshmallows
    • Real vanilla extract

Here’s How It’s Done

Final Touch:
Once it's all mixed, pour over popcorn, stir fast, and spread it out so it can cool off.
Popcorn Prep:
Dig out any old maid kernels—no one likes a tooth breaker.
Caramel Time:
Combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and butter in a pot, keep stirring till it’s all runny and smooth.
Marshmallow Melt:
Toss in the marshmallows and vanilla. Keep it moving until they’re all gooey and mixed in.

Tricks To Nail It

  • Don’t wait—move fast when mixing so it spreads evenly
  • Try with store-bought or microwave popcorn, whatever works for you
  • Let it chill out on a baking pan so it won’t clump up in big chunks
  • Use movie popcorn if you love salty-sweet snacks
  • Keep that caramel stuff moving so it doesn’t burn
A big brown bowl packed with caramel-drizzled popcorn, sitting by a window and exposed brick wall. Save this
A big brown bowl packed with caramel-drizzled popcorn, sitting by a window and exposed brick wall. | emilyscooks.com

Stay Crunchy

This popcorn is at its best right after you make it before it starts to get soft. Stash extras in a sealed container for a day or two, but honestly, good luck having leftovers.

Common Questions

→ Can I pop it any way I want?

Yep, use microwave, stove, air popper—just make sure it’s simple, plain popcorn.

→ Should I get rid of the kernels that didn’t pop?

Definitely, you don’t want to crack a tooth or get uneven caramel in your bowl.

→ Will this last long?

Good for a couple days in a sealed container, but honestly, best if you eat it the same day.

→ Why put corn syrup in?

It helps keep the caramel from turning gritty so the topping stays smooth.

→ Can I mix in anything else?

Go for it! Throw in candies, nuts, or a splash of any extract you like.

Caramel Marshmallow Popcorn

Soft, sticky popcorn mixed all over with rich caramel marshmallow. It’s super fast to make and everyone loves it for movie night.

Preparation Time
15 Minutes
Cooking Time
~
Overall Time
15 Minutes
Shared By: Emily

Meal Type: Desserts

Skill Level: Simple

Cuisine Style: American

Makes: 4 Portions (4)

Special Diet: Vegetarian-Friendly, Made Without Gluten

What You’ll Need

01 items 1 tsp vanilla extract.
02 items 20 jumbo marshmallows or about 3 cups of minis.
03 items 1 tbsp light corn syrup.
04 items 1 cup brown sugar.
05 items 1/2 cup butter (whole stick).
06 items 1 bag (3.2 oz) microwave popcorn, already popped.

Steps To Make It

Step 01

Pour popped popcorn into a big bowl, chuck any unpopped bits.

Step 02

Throw butter, corn syrup, and brown sugar in a pot and start warming on medium.

Step 03

Keep stirring so everything melts together nicely.

Step 04

Drop in marshmallows and vanilla, then stir until the gooey stuff blends in.

Step 05

Cover the popcorn with this marshmallowy mix.

Step 06

Toss till every piece looks glossy and coated.

Step 07

Spread everything out on a baking pan and wait for it to cool down.

Extra Notes

  1. This treat is best fresh, so munch on it today.
  2. Any kind of plain popped popcorn will do just fine.
  3. Take out the stubborn kernels before pouring the topping.
  4. Keep leftovers sealed up if you're saving some.

Essential Tools

  • Saucepan.
  • Baking sheet.
  • Mixing bowls.
  • Rubber spatula.

Allergen Info

Review ingredients carefully for allergens, and consult a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Dairy.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Keep in mind, this data is an estimate and not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat Content: 22 grams
  • Total Carbs: 65 grams
  • Protein Content: 2 grams