Amish Caramel Corn

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Sweet, buttery, and crunchy, Amish Caramel Corn is the kind of treat that instantly brings back childhood memories. Whether it was scooped into little paper bags at local fairs or given out during holiday gatherings, it has that nostalgic homemade charm that no store-bought popcorn can compete with. The rich caramel coating hugs every fluffy kernel, creating a mouthful of golden, toffee-like bliss with every bite.

It’s shockingly easy to make, and the payoff is well worth the effort. This is the perfect snack for cozy movie nights, festive parties, or when you just need to satisfy a caramel craving. Best of all, it stays crunchy for days, making it a fantastic make-ahead treat or edible gift.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Caramel Corn

You’re going to love this because it’s foolproof, irresistibly crunchy, and tastes like a gourmet version of what you’d find at country fairs. The recipe uses simple pantry ingredients but gives you a rich, buttery caramel flavor that doesn’t require a candy thermometer or complicated steps. It’s also easy to double or triple for a crowd and stores beautifully for days.

Do I Need a Popcorn Maker for This?

Nope! That’s one of the best parts. While freshly air-popped popcorn works beautifully, you can also use stove-popped or even plain bagged popcorn. Just make sure it’s unsalted and unbuttered so it doesn’t interfere with the sweet caramel. The key is that your popcorn is fresh and fluffy so it holds up well when tossed in the warm caramel.

Ingredients for the Amish Caramel Corn

Making Amish Caramel Corn requires only a handful of basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. These ingredients come together to create a smooth, rich caramel that coats each popcorn kernel perfectly.

• Popcorn: You’ll need about 10 cups of popped popcorn. This forms the base of your caramel corn, so make sure it’s fluffy and fresh.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and that signature molasses-rich sweetness to the caramel.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps create that smooth, glossy texture in the caramel coating.
• Corn Syrup: Keeps the caramel from crystallizing and gives it a perfect, pourable consistency.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness with a subtle savory note.
• Baking Soda: Reacts with the sugar to create a light, airy texture that helps the caramel spread evenly.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor with warm, sweet undertones.

How To Make the Amish Caramel Corn

Step 1: Prep the Popcorn

Pop your popcorn using your preferred method and place it in a large, heat-safe mixing bowl. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Stir until the butter melts and everything is well mixed. Bring to a boil and let it bubble for 4 to 5 minutes without stirring.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda and Vanilla

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the baking soda and vanilla. The mixture will foam up – that’s exactly what you want! It’s what gives the caramel its airy, light crunch.

Step 4: Coat the Popcorn

Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popcorn and gently stir to coat every piece. Use a spatula or wooden spoon and work quickly before the caramel sets.

Step 5: Bake for Crispiness

Transfer the coated popcorn to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 250°F for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and crisp texture.

Step 6: Cool and Break Apart

Let the caramel corn cool completely. It will harden as it cools. Break into chunks and store in an airtight container.

How to Store and Serve Amish Caramel Corn

This recipe makes enough for about 10 people to snack on. It’s perfect for sharing at holiday parties, road trips, school lunches, or just as a sweet pantry staple. Store your caramel corn in an airtight container at room temperature, and it will stay crunchy for up to a week. For best results, let it cool fully before storing to avoid moisture buildup.

You can also pack it into jars or bags tied with ribbon for thoughtful, homemade gifts.

What to Serve With Amish Caramel Corn?

Hot Chocolate

The rich sweetness of Amish Caramel Corn pairs beautifully with a warm mug of hot cocoa.

Apple Cider

Serve it with a spiced apple cider for a cozy fall or winter snack combo.

Cheese Platter

Create a sweet and savory balance by adding caramel corn to a cheese board with sharp cheddar or brie.

Ice Cream Sundaes

Use it as a crunchy topping for vanilla or butter pecan ice cream.

Movie Night Snacks

Combine it with pretzels, chocolate chips, and nuts for a custom snack mix.

Campfire Nights

Pack it along for a sweet treat around the fire.

Picnic Baskets

Add it to picnic spreads for a nostalgic, crunchy sweet bite.

Want More Snack Ideas?

If you loved this Amish Caramel Corn, you might also enjoy these other sweet and savory bites:

• Ooey Gooey Bars: A Decadent Treat You Can’t Resist
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars for a Post-Holiday Fix
• Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread with a Buttery Crust
• Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy for a Spicy-Sweet Kick
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add peanuts or keep it classic? Maybe a drizzle of chocolate?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other bake smarter.

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