Dolle'S Caramel Corn
Sweet, rich caramel popcorn with deep molasses flavor, crunchy texture, perfect for sharing during gatherings or as a tasty snack for movie nights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine light corn syrup, granulated sugar, light molasses, water, and 1/4 stick of butter in a saucepan.
- Cook the mixture until it reaches 290°F, measuring with a candy thermometer.
- Pour the hot caramel over the spread-out popped popcorn on a cookie sheet.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix the popcorn and caramel together on the cookie sheet.
- Let the caramel popcorn cool and then store in an airtight tin.
- Makes approximately 1 1/2 quarts of caramel popcorn.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the caramel mixture. If you don't have light molasses, you can substitute with dark molasses, but be aware it will alter the taste slightly. To prevent sticking, make sure to spread the popcorn out evenly on the cookie sheet before pouring the caramel. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy to avoid burning your caramel.
Serving Suggestions
This caramel corn makes a delightful snack for movie nights or festive gatherings. Pair it with a bowl of popcorn for a fun mix or serve it alongside Easy Individual Trifles for a sweet treat table. For a savory contrast, consider serving it with Peppy Deviled Eggs to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the caramel popcorn in an airtight tin to maintain its crispness. If you have any leftovers, it’s best to consume them within a week for optimal freshness. Reheating isn’t necessary, but if you prefer warm caramel corn, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds, being careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dolle'S Caramel Corn contains roughly 2394 calories, with 2g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 237g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this caramel corn ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramel corn a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’s a perfect make-ahead treat for parties or holidays, allowing you to enjoy more time with guests.
What type of popcorn should I use?
For the best results, use plain, air-popped popcorn. Avoid flavored or buttery popcorn, as they can interfere with the caramel coating. If you want to experiment, you can try adding nuts or pretzels for added texture and flavor.
How do I fix burnt caramel?
If your caramel burns, unfortunately, it’s best to start over, as burnt caramel can have a bitter taste that is difficult to mask. To avoid this, keep a close eye on the temperature and stir the mixture occasionally. Patience is key to achieving the perfect caramel.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).