Amish Caramel Corn

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Golden, glossy, and irresistibly crunchy, Amish Caramel Corn is the kind of treat that brings everyone back for seconds (and thirds). This old-fashioned snack delivers the perfect balance of buttery sweetness and crisp popcorn texture. It’s the ultimate combination of nostalgia and indulgence.

Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gift, a party snack, or just a cozy night in, this homemade caramel corn is surprisingly easy to make and always impressive. No fancy tools or candy thermometer needed—just a little patience, a big bowl, and a love for all things sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Caramel Corn

This recipe hits all the right notes: it’s crunchy, rich, and melts in your mouth with that buttery caramel finish. You don’t have to worry about fussing with stovetop popcorn or complicated techniques. The oven-baking step gives the caramel a beautiful shell, ensuring each bite is perfectly coated and addictively crisp.

Plus, it stores well and makes the perfect edible gift during the holidays. One batch goes a long way, but trust us—it disappears quickly!

What Kind of Popcorn Should I Use?

For best results, use plain air-popped popcorn. Avoid microwave popcorn with butter or salt, as those flavors can interfere with the caramel. If you don’t have an air popper, stovetop popcorn using plain kernels and a neutral oil works great too. Aim for popcorn that’s light and fluffy, with minimal broken pieces.

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Ingredients for the Amish Caramel Corn

Let’s take a closer look at the star ingredients that make this classic snack so addictive:

• Popcorn: The crunchy base. You’ll need about 10-12 cups of plain popped popcorn—light and fluffy with no added flavors.
• Butter: Essential for richness. It gives the caramel that velvety, buttery taste.
• Brown Sugar: The base of your caramel. It melts into a deep, sweet syrup with a hint of molasses.
• Light Corn Syrup: Helps prevent crystallization and gives the caramel its signature smooth texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness.
• Baking Soda: Reacts with the caramel to create a foamy texture that coats popcorn evenly.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the caramel flavor.

How To Make the Amish Caramel Corn

Step 1: Prep Your Popcorn

Pop about 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels to get around 12 cups. Place the popped corn into a large, deep mixing bowl, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of butter. Stir in 2 cups of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of light corn syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil and let it bubble for 5 minutes without stirring.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Baking Soda

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The mixture will foam up—this is what helps it spread over the popcorn evenly.

Step 4: Coat the Popcorn

Quickly pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and stir to coat thoroughly. Work fast before the caramel begins to set.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spread the coated popcorn onto two parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating.

Step 6: Cool and Break Apart

Once baked, let the caramel corn cool completely. It will crisp up as it cools. Break apart and store in an airtight container.

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How to Serve and Store Amish Caramel Corn

This batch yields enough to feed 10-12 people, depending on portion size. Serve it in bowls for a movie night snack, or package it in treat bags for party favors and holiday gifts.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If it starts to lose its crunch, a quick reheat in the oven at low temp can revive it.

What to Serve With Amish Caramel Corn?

Hot Apple Cider

The warm spices in cider pair perfectly with the rich sweetness of caramel corn.

Cheese Board

Serve this caramel treat alongside sharp cheddar or gouda for an irresistible sweet-salty combo.

Chocolate Drizzle

Take it over the top by drizzling melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled caramel corn.

Ice Cream Sundaes

Use it as a topping over vanilla ice cream for a fun texture and flavor boost.

Roasted Nuts

Add roasted pecans or almonds to the mix before baking for a nutty twist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Amish Caramel Corn without corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but the texture might be slightly softer. Corn syrup gives the caramel its glossy, crackly finish.

How do I prevent the caramel from burning?
Stick to medium heat and don’t walk away. Once it starts boiling, time it carefully (5 minutes exactly) and avoid stirring during the boil.

Can I use microwave popcorn?
It’s not ideal. Most microwave popcorn has added oils, butter, and salt that may clash with the caramel. Stick with plain air-popped or stovetop popcorn.

Why add baking soda to the caramel?
The baking soda reacts with the brown sugar and syrup to create air bubbles, making the caramel light and easier to coat the popcorn evenly.

Is this the same as Cracker Jack?
It’s very similar, but Amish Caramel Corn is usually richer and doesn’t include peanuts. If you want a peanut version, check out our Homemade Cracker Jack Recipe.

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