Go Back
Golden brown Amish caramel corn with almonds spread on parchment paper, showing perfectly coated kernels with glossy caramel finish

raditional Amish Caramel Popcorn: The Ultimate Sweet and Salty Snack Recipe

This authentic Amish caramel corn recipe transforms simple popcorn into golden, crispy perfection with a rich caramel coating. A balance of sweet, crunchy, and nutty flavors creates a legendary snack that surpasses store-bought caramel corn.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 16 servings (about 1 cup each)
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Amish
Calories: 185
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 7 quarts plain popped corn two 3.5 oz bags plain microwave popcorn
  • 2 cups slivered almonds or peanuts, cashews, macadamia nuts, or pecans
  • 2 cups packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Dash cayenne pepper optional

Method
 

  1. Pop 7 quarts plain popcorn and divide evenly between two greased shallow baking pans. Sprinkle nuts evenly over popcorn.
  2. Preheat oven to 240°F (115°C).
  3. In saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Stir over medium heat until smooth. Bring to boil and cook 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in baking soda, vanilla, and optional cayenne. Mixture will foam slightly.
  5. Pour hot caramel mixture over popcorn and nuts. Stir gently to coat.
  6. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes for even coating.
  7. Spread caramel corn on waxed paper to cool completely before storing.

Notes

Use unsalted, unbuttered popcorn for best results. Stir every 15 minutes while baking to prevent clumping and ensure even caramel distribution.