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Caramel popcorn microwave no corn syrup

Caramel popcorn microwave no corn syrup

Kimberly Booker RD
Grab your favorite bowl and get ready for a journey into the world of delicious caramel popcorn. But there’s a twist—we’re making it without corn syrup! Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite TV series or planning a family movie night, this recipe is a game-changer.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 2 Servings
Calories 151 kcal

Equipment

  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Microwave-safe plate 

Ingredients
  

  • ⅓ cup 60g/2oz popcorn kernels
  • 5 tablespoons 2 ½ oz/75g unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ cup 3oz/90g dark brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 2 ½ tablespoons 1 ½ oz/45g pure maple syrup (or golden syrup, but not honey)
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

Instructions
 

Step 1: Pop the Corn

  • First things first, let’s pop the popcorn. Place the popcorn kernels in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate to keep the popcorn from flying out. Microwave on high for 2-4 minutes or until the popping slows to about 2 seconds between pops. Set the popcorn aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Mixture

  • Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. This usually takes about 1 minute. Add the fine sea salt, dark brown sugar, molasses, and pure maple syrup to the melted butter. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Microwave this mixture on high for about 2 minutes. It will bubble up, so keep an eye on it.

Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches

  • Remove the caramel mixture from the microwave. It will be hot, so handle with care. Stir in the baking soda, ground cinnamon, and vanilla essence. You’ll notice the mixture foaming up—this is normal. The baking soda is what makes the caramel coat the popcorn more evenly.

Step 4: Combine Popcorn and Caramel Mixture

  • Pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn. Use a spatula to stir and make sure every kernel gets a coat of that sweet caramel goodness. Work quickly as the caramel will start to harden.

Step 5: Final Microwaving

  • Microwave the caramel-coated popcorn for about 1 to 2 minutes. This helps to harden the caramel and make the popcorn extra crunchy. Let it cool for a few minutes before digging in.

Notes

Achieving caramel popcorn perfection involves some neat tricks:
  • Homemade Popcorn: Always use fresh popcorn for the best results. Avoid store-bought, pre-popped versions.
  • Even Coating: Mix well and work fast while combining the popcorn and caramel to ensure an even coat.
  • Cooling Time: Let the caramel popcorn cool completely before serving. This helps the caramel set properly.
  • Small Batches: Make in small batches if you’re new to the process. It helps in better mixing and management.
  • Non-Stick Surface: Use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper for cooling the popcorn to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Calories: 151kcal
Keyword Caramel popcorn microwave no corn syrup
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