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Home » Holidays » Caramel Popcorn Balls

Caramel Popcorn Balls

By Ashlee Marie 177 Comments

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Perfect for party favors, friends, and family; these ooey-gooey caramel popcorn balls are just DELICIOUS.

caramel popcorn balls make great gifts for your family, friends and neighbors, printables included

Making caramel popcorn balls.

As I’ve mentioned before we love family movie night! AND we love popcorn! We tend to trade off between flavors (candied, kettle, butter) but the one we make the MOST often is Caramel Popcorn!

We make it three ways – these caramel popcorn balls, or more loose gooey popcorn or baked and crunchy popcorn!

The great thing about caramel popcorn balls is everyone get’s the same amount, no fighting… The BAD thing about it is they tend to be more messy… BUT hello… more CARAMEL!

I made a video showing how I create the caramel popcorn balls, they are actually super easy and a ton of fun, and something even the kiddo’s can help with.

And if your kids are anything like mine they LOVE to help in the kitchen. Sometimes the struggle is just finding something safe for them to help with!

So which way do you serve caramel popcorn? Gooey, caramelly, crunchy? There is NO WRONG ANSWER! The good news is you can have it both ways!

Go here to get the caramel popcorn ball labels (for neighbor gifts)!

Just take me to the popcorn ball recipe already!

If you’d rather skip my tips and tricks for getting perfect caramel popcorn balls, along with links to other caramel recipes and get straight to this delicious caramel treat – simply scroll to the bottom of the page where you can find the printable recipe card.

making soft gooey caramel popcorn balls are easy and a delicious treat and gift during the holidays

How to make caramel popcorn balls

For the popcorn balls pour the sauce over 1 – 1/ 1/2 batches of popcorn. Stir then let the popcorn cool enough to touch it without burning your hands.

Speaking of sticking, you’ll want to spray your hands with cooking spray when you start forming the balls.

Some of the balls might need to be stuck back together, so keep checking on your cooling caramel popcorn.

How to make gooey caramel popcorn

If you just want gooey popcorn pour over 2-3 batches of popcorn stir and serve. The more popcorn the less messy.

How to make crunchy caramel popcorn

If you want crunchy popcorn use 3 batches of popped popcorn. preheat your oven to 250.

Spread the caramel popcorn out on a jelly roll pan and bake for 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally. Then let it cool and break up the chunks.

We love caramel popcorn at our house, this recipe is easy to make, has a great buttery flavor and tastes divine. Let it cool and form into balls if you want to give some awa

To make these popcorn balls you’ll need

  • Candy thermometer (<- this one is my favorite)
  • Popcorn popper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • Jelly roll pan

Gooey caramel popcorn balls

If you love these caramel popcorn balls as much as we do, please leave a 5 star review and be sure to share on Facebook and Pinterest! If you want to stay updated on new recipes sign up for my newsletter and join my Facebook Group!

If you love caramel popcorn balls you’ll love these other gooey caramel recipes!

  • this salted caramel cheesecake is divine, creamy, smooth and tastes amazing with a macadamia nut crust
  • salted caramel brownies
  • toffee caramel cheesecake nachos

Salted Caramel Cheesecake | Caramel Brownies | Cheeescake Nachos with Caramel Sauce

  • chocolate caramel macaroon tart
  • buttery homemade caramel recipe
  • chocolate dipped homemade caramel marshmallows

Chocolate Caramel Tart | Buttery Homemade Caramel | Caramel Marshmallow

Connect with Ashlee Marie Online!

caramel popcorn balls

To watch me make this caramel popcorn play the video in the recipe card. There will also be a short teaser auto playing.

You can find all my cooking show style recipe videos on YouTube, or my short recipe videos on Facebook Watch, or my Facebook Page, or right here on our website with their corresponding recipes.

caramel popcorn balls

Caramel Popcorn Balls

this ooey gooey caramel popcorn recipe is seriously the best! great flavor and easy to make
3.91 from 237 votes
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8 large balls
Calories: 1360kcal
Author: Ashlee Marie

Ingredients

  • 1 C butter
  • 1 C light corn syrup
  • 2 C packed light brown sugar
  • ½ C granulated sugar
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 Tbsp vanilla
  • 15-30 C popped popcorn less will be messier, and gooier, but I like it, more for a looser caramel popcorn
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

  • Bring the butter, syrup, and sugars to a boil, keep bubbling over med heat until it hits the softball stage (240 degrees – use a candy thermometer)
  • Add the sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla and boil 1 more min – let it cool a few mins so it doesn’t shrink the popcorn.
  • pour over the popcorn and stir

popcorn balls

  • use 1 – 1 1/2 batches of air popped popcorn for these balls
  • spread the popcorn out and let it start too cool
  • spray your hands with cooking spray and portion it out into 8 sections and ball up.
  • Continue to check back and ball and turn until they cool enough that they stay in their ball forms

gooey caramel popcorn

  • use 2-3 batches of air popped popcorn for this – serve immediately 

crunchy caramel popcorn

  • use 3 batches of popped popcorn for this – stir and coat as evenly as you can
  • IF you want crunchy popcorn preheat your oven to 250 – spread it out in a pan and place in the oven and bake for like 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally, until it crisps up

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 1360kcal | Carbohydrates: 247g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Cholesterol: 77mg | Sodium: 319mg | Potassium: 713mg | Fiber: 20g | Sugar: 127g | Vitamin A: 840IU | Vitamin C: 1.3mg | Calcium: 207mg | Iron: 5.5mg
Did you make this recipe?Mention @ashleemariecakes or tag #makesomeawesome and I’ll share your image in my Instagram stories!

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With the right tips and tricks, I believe YOU can make, bake, or create anything. This is what I love to do - make some awesome, teach you how, and give you that boost of culinary confidence you need to rock your own kitchen!
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Filed Under: christmas, desserts, Food Tutorials, Holidays, recipe videos, Recipes, short videos, Videos

Previous Post: « 29 Ice Cream Recipes
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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Katie

    May 31, 2015 at 6:23 am

    I love caramel corn,but for some reason I’ve never tried to make it. This recipe sounds so easy and good I think I’m going to have to give it a try. Thanks !

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      May 31, 2015 at 4:21 pm

      it’s SUPER easy, let me know what you think when you try it!

      Reply
      • Carol Crill

        January 13, 2017 at 5:19 pm

        Stinks that you didn’t actually give the recipe. Jumped through hoops to get the video. Cut off at every attempt to access the recipe.

      • Ashlee

        January 25, 2017 at 4:31 pm

        I’m so sorry to hear that! you commented right on the post where the recipe is located so now I’m worried something is wrong! were you on mobile and had to click the “read more” button? did it not work?

      • Rhonda

        October 14, 2018 at 6:37 am

        The popcorn ball recipe is there. Mo problem.
        How do you make the crunchier popcorn not in a ball?

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:23 pm

        for crunchy popcorn I use 3 batches of popped popcorn – stir and coat as evenly as you can
        IF you want crunchy popcorn preheat your oven to 250 – spread it out in a pan and place in the oven and bake for like 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally, until it crisps up

      • Julie Peterson

        November 9, 2018 at 8:24 am

        3 stars
        The recipe was just above the video, I got it and can’t wait to make them for
        My grandkids! Thanks

      • Merry Guerrero

        November 15, 2018 at 12:17 pm

        Hi Ashlee,
        I have a question. What is the best way to store them after they are made and how long will they stay fresh? I would love to make these 2 days ahead of my trip to visit my daughters. Just wondering.
        Thank you so much for the recipe!

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:16 pm

        I’d wrap them up tight in plastic wrap and yes they should last a few days just fine

      • Mary Robinson

        November 24, 2018 at 1:29 am

        Hi Ashlee where can I purchase the cute plastic bags with the tie?

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:14 pm

        I got mine at a local store, I bet walmart would have some, or amazon of course https://amzn.to/2OoMuGd then I bought bakers twine

      • Sheila

        November 28, 2018 at 4:55 pm

        The recipe was shown when I scrolled down. No problems. It looks fabulous and I hope to make it soon!

      • Edi Teipel

        December 4, 2018 at 4:40 pm

        4 stars
        Recipe was right there for me.

        However, I am actually looking for a recipe I used once yeeeaaars ago when my kids were small. Now they are middle aged…
        The popcorn balls were made with jelly powder. Heated in the microwave.
        But I cannot remember the details. Did I warm the powder till it liquefied, or before making a strong liquid dilution and then heat it in the microwave?

        They hardened crispy when they cooled off and were absolutely delicious

        And with different flavours and colours they are vibrant and exciting to serve at a kiddies party

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:11 pm

        I’ve never heard of using jelly powder for caramel popcorn, but I do have instructions for making crispy caramel popcorn in the recipe card.

      • Beverly

        October 16, 2018 at 1:50 pm

        5 stars
        Sometimes to get the recipe I have to open it in SAFARI. I fobtgat then the recipe comes up. Not all the time.

      • Renae Cruz

        October 20, 2018 at 3:39 pm

        The recipe is right above! Super delicious!

      • Judy mayes

        December 19, 2017 at 3:57 pm

        Looks really easy grandkids r making it tonight instead of cookies!!

      • Kelli r

        October 10, 2018 at 8:09 am

        Do u use salted or unsalted butter and same question for popcorn? I can see either it being great

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:24 pm

        unsalted butter

      • Tori

        October 14, 2018 at 2:43 pm

        Omg I just made these and they are amazing.

      • Donna

        November 7, 2018 at 5:30 pm

        how did you get the kernels out of the popcorn I did not see that trick please advise

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:18 pm

        here you go https://ashleemarie.com/get-kernels-out-popcorn/

      • Linda

        February 3, 2019 at 3:59 pm

        I made these at Christmas time – Kept adding popcorn until they were not quite so sticky. Sent some to grandchildren, lady in nursing home and froze some. They freeze really well and grandchildren that stopped by later really liked them. (My husband and I ate our share).
        The best popcorn balls ever.

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 9:41 pm

        You are so sweet! I’m glad they were such a hit!

  2. Lee Ann

    May 31, 2015 at 7:42 am

    Thanks so much for posting this recipe! Sounds delicious! 🙂

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      May 31, 2015 at 4:21 pm

      It really is! But I’m addicted to caramel!

      Reply
      • LOUISE CALL

        August 3, 2017 at 4:47 am

        Hi, I made this and it was so good. My question is, how do i make them so it isn’t so sticky. It was still so sticky the nest day or two. I want to make it so it does get hard and crunchy. I want to make the balls and also just to eat it not making it a ball. I sell them at craft shows. Can you please e-mail today (8-3-17) as I am making these today..Thank you

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:25 pm

        for crunchy popcorn I use 3 batches of popped popcorn – stir and coat as evenly as you can
        IF you want crunchy popcorn preheat your oven to 250 – spread it out in a pan and place in the oven and bake for like 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally, until it crisps up

      • Vickiebusterna

        October 10, 2018 at 2:20 pm

        I love popcorn balls …but IAM Vickie busterna…i know they going 2 b great

    • [email protected]

      September 3, 2019 at 9:38 am

      I can’t see the recipe?????

      Reply
      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 9:36 pm

        its at the bottom of the post – in the blue box

  3. Jenny

    October 21, 2015 at 1:41 pm

    5 stars
    Hey!
    Thanks for this great recipe – will these work to make a head for a party? How many popcorn balls does this recipe make? I am excited to try this yummy recipe!

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      November 15, 2015 at 6:02 pm

      oh man, that’s a great questions! it depends on your ball size! I think I made 8 this size!

      Reply
      • Melissa

        June 14, 2019 at 8:13 pm

        Does it keep well ? Or to be eaten right away

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 9:39 pm

        they should last a few days!

  4. Maryann Stevens

    October 31, 2015 at 7:09 am

    These are the best popcorn balls that I have ever made. Chewy caramel, but not too sweet or hard like the ones that are made with marshmallows. Definitely worth making! Butter your hands!!!?

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      November 15, 2015 at 6:06 pm

      YAY! love hearing that! and yes very very VERY messy!

      Reply
  5. Olivia Vance

    November 11, 2015 at 4:53 pm

    5 stars
    This recipe is to die for! Thank you SO much! I loved how easy and fast they were to make. I cut up some apples to wipe up the extra caramel with– amazing!

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      November 15, 2015 at 6:27 pm

      Mmmmm I pour any extra caramel on cake and ice cream, but apples is probably healthier!

      Reply
      • Marsha Allen

        October 12, 2018 at 5:06 pm

        Have you tried adding something like pretzels and M&M’s … and thoughts here?

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:27 pm

        I have – and love it!

  6. jess

    November 20, 2015 at 7:59 pm

    OMG!! ilove caramel popcorn sooooo good i cant wait to try this but can you send or coment a list of the ingredients??

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      November 22, 2015 at 4:55 pm

      I love it to, but I’m confused by your request? you wrote this comment on a page with all the ingredients and recipe listed right on this page! It even has a print button.

      Reply
      • Wendy

        December 6, 2015 at 5:02 pm

        5 stars
        Now that is funny. Awesome I love popcorn balls my mom used to make them for kids on Halloween instead of buying candy.

  7. Debbie B

    December 5, 2015 at 6:40 am

    4 stars
    This is great thanks. I am going to make them into cone shapes so I can serve(or sell them) in a fun easy to handle cone shape. I have some wonderful paper cones tht is for shaved ice treats, they are just a bit bigger than normal and I can spray the inside lightly with cooking spray. Less mess on the hands.

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      December 27, 2015 at 2:47 am

      sounds perfect!

      Reply
  8. constance emily

    December 5, 2015 at 10:17 am

    I’m going to make these. They look awesome! My question is, would it be ok to add peanuts to the carmel? Thank you

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      December 27, 2015 at 2:50 am

      I’d add the peanuts after you pour the caramel over the popcorn, then mix them together!

      Reply
  9. Darlene Penna

    December 6, 2015 at 9:24 am

    You mentioned a neat way to get the Unpopped kernels out. Pls share.

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      December 27, 2015 at 3:42 am

      there is a link in the video – here you go https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7htrTJZd8w

      Reply
      • Nancy Hinds

        November 2, 2018 at 6:36 pm

        Well Done! I love short videos… Great idea – love the hair and I am making these. We will each get one and then I will find some kiddos to eat the rest.

  10. Mary

    February 5, 2016 at 9:16 pm

    Hi, Thanks for the recipe. In the video, you say “evaporated milk” but the ingredients list says condensed milk. I’m thinking it’s condensed milk? Could you confirm pls? Thanks

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      February 6, 2016 at 12:03 am

      yup, which is why in the video I have words that come pop up and say ‘oops I meant condensed milk”

      Reply
  11. Abby

    February 15, 2016 at 2:09 pm

    5 stars
    This looks super delicious! I’m going to give it a try with my siblings!

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      March 1, 2016 at 7:47 pm

      yay! let me know what you think! it’s a favorite of ours for sure!

      Reply
  12. Anita

    February 16, 2016 at 5:49 pm

    5 stars
    Could this caramel be good for apples too??? Just thought I’d ask 🙂

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      March 1, 2016 at 7:55 pm

      sure!!! it is runnier than the caramel I use for carameled apples, but it could be good for drizzeling

      Reply
      • DEBBIE MULLINS

        October 13, 2018 at 2:08 am

        CAN YOU GIVE ME YOUR CARAMEL APPLE RECIPE. DEBBIE MULLINS

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:27 pm

        I use this caramel recipe for caramel apples https://ashleemarie.com/buttery-homemade-caramel/

      • tammy bolin -larue

        October 29, 2018 at 10:46 am

        to make it thicker for dipping etc…cook the caramel longer….love this …

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:22 pm

        for dipping I’d make a different caramel recipe https://ashleemarie.com/buttery-homemade-caramel/

  13. Beep Bip

    April 27, 2016 at 10:21 pm

    Do u need sweetens condensed milk?

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      May 23, 2016 at 11:57 pm

      yes, it’s an important part of the recipe

      Reply
  14. cookie

    July 23, 2016 at 10:31 am

    Hi,

    I am from Canada. What is “karo syrup”?

    Thank you

    Reply
    • Marsha

      September 12, 2016 at 11:53 am

      Karo is a name brand of corn syrup

      Reply
    • Ashlee

      October 15, 2016 at 12:14 am

      light corn syrup http://amzn.to/2ehtcPD

      Reply
  15. Tosha

    September 6, 2016 at 1:30 pm

    Have you ever tried the caramel sauce with rice krispie treats instead?

    Reply
  16. janet

    October 12, 2016 at 12:37 pm

    Thank you for the recipe and the great demo, that helped. The first time we made it we sizzled our hands.

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 29, 2017 at 1:22 am

      I sometimes wonder if I even have nerve endings in my fingers after burning them so often – sorry about that!

      Reply
      • Carrie C

        October 19, 2018 at 4:57 am

        5 stars
        I say that i have asbestos fingers, i flip meat in the pan or oven, i can grab baked potatoes.
        I personally think that’s not right, like there’s something wrong, but you know it’s also great for kitchen work.

  17. janet

    October 12, 2016 at 12:38 pm

    Where do you find the cute papers to wrap them in?

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 29, 2017 at 1:21 am

      the plastic bags? just at Michael’s or joann’s – the labels? I designed – and offer them here http://ashleemarie.com/neighbor-christmas-gifts-labels-free-printables/

      Reply
  18. Susan

    October 17, 2016 at 11:17 am

    This looks awesome! Thanks for the video. And I love your hair 🙂

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 29, 2017 at 1:06 am

      thank you so much! and I’m glad you liked it!

      Reply
  19. Jamie

    October 23, 2016 at 8:38 am

    How long will these stay fresh once made? How far ahead of time can I make them for gifts? Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 26, 2017 at 12:06 am

      you can make them as gifts but not like DAYS ahead, one day in my opinion- some people might say longer, but I prefer my caramel super fresh

      Reply
  20. Lourdes Crespo

    October 27, 2016 at 12:10 pm

    Great recipe!!! One question… The recipe asks for condensed milk or evaporated milk.? The ingredients in the printed says CONDENSED, but in the video, you say EVAPORATED.

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 26, 2017 at 12:00 am

      in the video I said it wrong – I added a title over the top of that shot that said “oops condensed milk” – but the new end cards erased it – grrrr anyway condensed

      Reply
  21. Marcie

    December 7, 2016 at 6:24 pm

    OMG!! SO I JUST MADE IT FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER…AND IT IS AMAZING….I HAD TO POST MYSELF ON THE BACK AND GIVE A SHOT OUT TO YOU..LOL…YOUR DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS ARE AMAZING..
    THANKS CAN’T WAIT TO TRY ANOTHER RECIPE

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 25, 2017 at 9:54 pm

      awww thank you so much! so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply
  22. Janelle

    December 16, 2016 at 11:14 am

    super delicious! waiting for mine to cool now. is there a way to make them harden & keep their shape faster? putting mine in fridge before the party. what would you do?

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 25, 2017 at 8:23 pm

      you can use more popcorn and they’ll hold together quicker, but I like them goopier – so I just walk by and reshape every once in a while. but I don’t want mine hard – if you cook it a little longer the caramel will also be harder

      Reply
      • Edytte

        June 6, 2017 at 9:48 am

        I was in a hurry and put them in the freezer for less than 10 minutes Immediately after shaping it, and it turns out perfect! They keep their shape until I served it.

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 10:24 pm

        awesome! so glad that worked out!

  23. Kathryn Dybwad

    December 17, 2016 at 10:30 pm

    OMG, my Pastor said he wanted popcorn balls. His wife was busy cooking for the Christmas fellowship after service so my husband and I got together and made these. Actually used 12 cups of popped popcorn. Never made caramel popcorn balls these turned out awesome. Thanks for sharing this recipe. I will continue to use it!!!!!

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 25, 2017 at 8:13 pm

      yay! so glad you enjoyed them! and hope everyone else did too!

      Reply
  24. Penny

    December 20, 2016 at 7:56 pm

    Ashlee, How many ounces of condensed milk? What sized can should I buy? Thank you.

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 25, 2017 at 6:30 pm

      I’ve never seen multiple sizes of sweetened condensed milk – 14 oz is all I’ve ever seen or used – does that help?

      Reply
  25. Londa Caldwell

    December 23, 2016 at 7:25 pm

    I only have dark brown sugar. Will this work?

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      January 25, 2017 at 5:08 pm

      I’ve never tried it with dark brown sugar- the recipe should work just fine, but the flavor will be more molasses-y

      Reply
    • Darlene Mazv

      April 4, 2019 at 11:53 am

      I am making it for the school cake sale

      Reply
      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 9:39 pm

        hope it goes well!

  26. Edytte

    June 6, 2017 at 10:25 am

    I did it yesterday, as treat, for my 7 years old daughter’s Soccer team.
    I did popcorn balls smaller than shown. I wanted them easy to handled for small children’s hands.
    I also was in a hurry… I begun to did them 30minutes before the game! So I put them in the freezer for less than 10 minutes, Immediately after shaping, and they turned out perfect! They keep their shape until I served it. On 25 balls, I stayed with only 3!
    I will do it again for sure! My only modification will to cook the sugar slower (more medium heat than medium-hi heat) and pour only half of the sweetened condensed milk for a harder flavor, less buttery.
    But it was Absolutely delicious!

    Reply
  27. Marty white

    October 4, 2017 at 4:57 pm

    my first time to make them super easy but took more than 8 cups of popped corn more like 12 cups had to pop corn to add to the caramel but THEY ARE GOOD

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      October 28, 2017 at 11:58 pm

      My sister uses 12 cups, I like mine more caramel, I’ll make some notes.

      Reply
  28. Dreama

    October 7, 2017 at 10:31 am

    What is the trick for getting rid of kernels?

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      October 28, 2017 at 11:11 pm

      http://ashleemarie.com/get-kernels-out-popcorn/

      Reply
  29. Sandy

    October 22, 2017 at 4:29 pm

    Hi Ashleemarie, I was looking for a cooking project to do with my granddaughter. Followed your recipe and video as directed. added 12 cups of popcorn and the balls were super soft and soggy. What did I do wrong? Thank you, Sandy

    Reply
    • Ashlee

      October 28, 2017 at 10:36 pm

      I’m so sorry to hear that. My guess would be that the caramel sauce wasn’t cooked quite enough. Did you adjust the candy thermometer to your altitude? also did it rain that day – barometer pressure is murder on candy making. AND sometimes candy making is just sensitive – every once in awhile it needs more or less popcorn!

      Reply
      • Cindy

        December 21, 2018 at 6:31 pm

        How long do they keep after you make them 1week ? And when you put them in a bag do they stick or are they firm.

      • Ashlee Marie

        February 2, 2020 at 9:48 pm

        I keep them in plastic bags and they last a few days, but the popcorn does just get a little to hard for me after a few days. But personal preference. I’ve been told they freeze well, I just never have leftovers!

  30. Sue

    December 16, 2017 at 10:59 am

    Hi, this recipe sounds awesome, can’t wait to try it! However, at the moment I don’t have popcorn kernels in the house, do you think it would work with microwave popcorn? Maybe I’ll give it a try anyway. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:24 pm

      plain non buttered popcorn sure,

      Reply
  31. Morris

    June 27, 2018 at 8:28 pm

    So easy and so delicious thank you

    Reply
  32. Kerry

    July 15, 2018 at 5:43 am

    I was thinking of making these up for lunch box treats. Do you think they would stay fresh for 5 to 6 days? I will probably have to hide them to make them last all week.

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:25 pm

      I like them best in the first few days. I wrap them tight in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. But they are safe to eat much longer

      Reply
  33. Tricia

    October 7, 2018 at 1:31 pm

    Made them today, had to add some more popcorn because there was so much caramel. But turned out great!!!! Thanks

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:28 pm

      I add more popcorn for just gooey caramel popcorn and even more for crunchy popcorn! the best part of cooking for yourself is personalizing it!

      Reply
  34. Katie

    October 11, 2018 at 4:57 pm

    Any suggestions for those of us that don’t have a candy thermometer? Any tricks? I can go get one but I don’t want to wait to make these! Lol

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:27 pm

      you can do the ice water test, but a thermometer is always best (and easy to find)

      Reply
  35. Rhonda

    October 14, 2018 at 6:44 am

    How do I make the crunchy popcorn with your caramel recipe that you mentioned? I would like to try the loose crunchy recipe. Thanks!
    Rhonda

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:23 pm

      for crunchy popcorn I use 3 batches of popped popcorn – stir and coat as evenly as you can
      IF you want crunchy popcorn preheat your oven to 250 – spread it out in a pan and place in the oven and bake for like 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally, until it crisps up

      Reply
  36. J Davis

    October 14, 2018 at 5:56 pm

    5 stars
    This is fantastic, the whole family loved it!!
    Thank you for sharing this recipe.

    Reply
  37. Rebecca

    October 17, 2018 at 8:28 am

    5 stars
    Oh my!!! So glad to find this recipe!! To die for and oh so easy!! I went old school for soft ball stage…..drop of caramel in cold water to check it!! So quick and easy!!! Thank you!!

    Reply
  38. Missy

    October 17, 2018 at 1:39 pm

    Can you use microwave popcorn?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:20 pm

      yes as long as it’s plain, I don’t recommend buttered popcorn

      Reply
  39. Felicia

    November 5, 2018 at 4:41 pm

    Speaking of caramel and apples, could the caramel part be used for caramel apples?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:19 pm

      not this caramel recipe, it would be too thin! I’d use this recipe for that https://ashleemarie.com/buttery-homemade-caramel/

      Reply
  40. Emperor

    November 14, 2018 at 10:36 am

    4 stars
    If you added salt to this recipe, I think you could use less of the sweeteners (less calories) but I don’t know how much less. Do you use any salt besides what is contained in the butter and other ingredients already?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:21 pm

      I don’t count calories, I just enjoy good food. You can totally add more salt, but I wouldn’t change the sugar amt

      Reply
  41. Joe Majury (Belfast, N.Ireland)

    November 20, 2018 at 7:34 am

    5 stars
    These look delicious, I must give them a go, but I think that I would make them more mouth size pieces, easier to just pick up and pop in your mouth. I dread to think of the calories in this 😄

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:16 pm

      you can add double the popcorn for a less caramelly loose popcorn vs balls

      Reply
  42. Joyce Knake

    November 21, 2018 at 6:14 am

    I will have to try it. Mine are good but hard to chew as balls. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  43. Caleb Cupp

    November 26, 2018 at 5:29 pm

    What about baking it? My grandma used to bake it to harden it up? Will that work?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:11 pm

      I have instructions for crunchy caramel popcorn in the recipe card

      Reply
  44. Allison

    December 1, 2018 at 7:53 pm

    Made these today and they were awesome! Also added some drizzled chocolate! Yum! Thank you

    Reply
  45. Shirley

    December 2, 2018 at 11:50 pm

    I can’t wait to try your recipe. I LOVE Carmel popcorn. I would like to make it for Christmas gifts but want it to be loose, not formed into balls. Would I just use more popcorn, then? Would I use more than 12 cups popcorn?
    Also, do you use microwave popcorn, or pop it on the stove? I will comment again after I try this recipe. Thank you!!

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 10:09 pm

      I use one batch for balls, 2 batches of popcorn for normal caramel popcorn and three batches to make crunchy popcorn (all three of these with instructions are now in the recipe card to help)

      Reply
  46. Jacquie Jantz

    December 6, 2018 at 5:55 pm

    You mentioned earlier that you like them cooled and crunchy. how do you do that do you just spread them out on the tray or do you still make him in the balls?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:55 pm

      for crunchy popcorn I use 3 batches of popped popcorn – stir and coat as evenly as you can
      IF you want crunchy popcorn preheat your oven to 250 – spread it out in a pan and place in the oven and bake for like 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally, until it crisps up

      Reply
  47. Betty Morris

    December 8, 2018 at 7:55 am

    Do I need to use a double boiler?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:55 pm

      nope

      Reply
  48. Milissa

    December 9, 2018 at 12:01 pm

    Will these hold their shape if put into baggies? And will they keep unrefrigerated for a couple weeks?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:55 pm

      I’d wrap them tight in plastic wrap, not just in a bag, also I think they are good for a few days, not weeks. Personal preference.

      Reply
  49. Carol

    December 11, 2018 at 8:29 am

    How do you pop your corn…that seems to be my problem….getting my popcorn to turn out good and not tough. Do you pop corn from scratch or in the microwave?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:53 pm

      I use an air popper – I’d recommend you let the caramel cool a little – when you add the hot caramel to the popcorn right away the popcorn will shrink up and get tough.

      Reply
  50. Karen

    December 12, 2018 at 4:55 pm

    You recommended that these be made so the caramel would be fresh, maybe a day. I want to include popcorn balls in the packages I’m sending out for Christmas, so I need some that would be good for ten days or so. Would the recipe on the Karo site be a better bet? Your thoughts? Thanks.

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:51 pm

      it’s a personal preference, I don’t like them after a few days, but some people don’t notice a difference. they will be safe to eat in 10 days, I just don’t like them that old, the popcorn is just different to me. wrap tight in plastic wrap though and give it a try! maybe you’ll like it!

      Reply
  51. Devonne

    December 18, 2018 at 3:41 pm

    How do you adjust the recipe for just caramel corn and not molding it into balls?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:50 pm

      for crunchy caramel corn use 3 batches of popped popcorn – stir and coat as evenly as you can
      IF you want crunchy popcorn preheat your oven to 250 – spread it out in a pan and place in the oven and bake for like 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally, until it crisps up

      Reply
  52. Anne

    December 18, 2018 at 7:05 pm

    Do you just boil the caramel a bit longer for it to be crunchier?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:49 pm

      for crunchy popcorn I use 3 batches of popped popcorn – stir and coat as evenly as you can
      IF you want crunchy popcorn preheat your oven to 250 – spread it out in a pan and place in the oven and bake for like 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally, until it crisps up

      Reply
  53. Carmen

    December 21, 2018 at 8:01 am

    5 stars
    Just made these and they are fantastic!! My grandmother would make popcorn balls when I was young and I’ve missed having them. However, I think these are even yummier than hers… I hope this will create a yummy Christmas tradition for my kids that they will pass on to their future children.

    Reply
  54. Sherri nelson

    December 21, 2018 at 5:57 pm

    So I made the Carmel ball and they were good but I stored them and now they are no good why?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:49 pm

      they are best fresh, I’d keep them wraped in plastic wrap tightly, all air will dry out the popcorn so just tupperware won’t be good enough.

      Reply
  55. Sunshine

    December 22, 2018 at 9:41 pm

    5 stars
    I see the recipe just fine

    Reply
  56. Tammie

    December 27, 2018 at 12:53 pm

    Thank you for this recipe! I just made it with my 4 grandchildren & the are sooo yummy & fun to make. Best Ever! Love these popcorn balls.

    Reply
  57. Shannon

    January 3, 2019 at 8:21 pm

    Hi I made these for the first time and my family loved them. Great recipe. I’m definitely make them again. Thank you.

    Reply
  58. Carolyn

    January 13, 2019 at 4:30 pm

    I prefer dry caramel corn – do you know how long you’d have to bake it and at what temp for it to come out ok?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:43 pm

      so instead of 1 batch of popcorn like these balls call for I use 3 batches, then preheat your oven to 250 – spread it out in a pan and place in the oven and bake for like 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally, until it crisps up

      Reply
  59. Jenny Boix

    January 14, 2019 at 11:44 am

    Thank you so much for recipe Ashlee, I am going to attempt to make this for my baby shower just in smaller sizes of the balls, I am soo excited to try them as I am also addicted to caramel😊

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:43 pm

      I hope they are a huge hit!

      Reply
  60. Jo Ann Dill

    February 27, 2019 at 7:41 am

    I am curious about the reference for “IF you want crunchier popcorn balls.” If so, do you bake the popcorn before adding caramel mixture OR after?

    Reply
  61. EMERY OGILVIE

    February 27, 2019 at 3:04 pm

    SOUNDS GOOD !

    Reply
  62. Kate

    March 30, 2019 at 4:22 pm

    5 stars
    The popcorn turned out great and the video was super helpful! Will definitely make again

    Reply
  63. Marion Lunsford

    June 11, 2019 at 3:19 pm

    Hey Ashley, I love the popcorn balls!! Made them with my Granddaughter, but if you didn’t want to make them into balls could you just make it and put it into bags and eat it that way as Carmel corn ???

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:40 pm

      totally, I’d add more popcorn so it’s not QUITE so caramelly – I add a whole nother batch of popcorn when just eating it as caramel popcorn.

      Reply
  64. Cyndi

    July 23, 2019 at 8:50 pm

    5 stars
    Hi Lost my old family recipe for Caramel Corn Balls when my computer crashed! So when I was telling my grandson how we used to make it when his dad was his age he was excited to make some. I found your recipe and I have to say it sounded so familiar. Needless to say it worked and it was WONDERFUL! The only thing I let him do most of the work and we goofed on how much butter? He thought a stick was a cup?? Live and learn. It still came out great. The only thing we did differently was we use Butter on our hands not spray. Thanks for your help and sharing.

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:38 pm

      you are so welcome! I’m so glad it worked out!

      Reply
  65. Bev

    August 10, 2019 at 7:56 pm

    Do you think I could use the Dulce de Leche condensed milk? This really does look like a great recipe. Can’t wait to try it.

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:45 pm

      depending on how thick it is it could work. Candy making is chemistry so you don’t want to change too much.

      Reply
  66. Tam

    August 14, 2019 at 9:47 pm

    5 stars
    Yea Thank you for the recipe. I don’t eat them but the family does. LOVE YA

    Reply
  67. Layla

    August 27, 2019 at 7:00 pm

    do you have the nutrition facts on here too?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:36 pm

      they should be at the bottom of the recipe card

      Reply
  68. Betty Madara

    September 12, 2019 at 8:18 am

    Thank you for the recipe,Love these Carmel pop corn balls,giving it a 5star!

    Reply
  69. Frances Wood

    October 6, 2019 at 4:48 pm

    Can you make the popcorn balls ahead of time. Like 4 or 5 days?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      November 19, 2019 at 11:13 pm

      no, they are best eaten fresh. The caramel continues to dry out and it get’s hard to eat them so I don’t recommend it.

      Reply
  70. Carol Richardson

    November 9, 2019 at 3:25 pm

    5 stars
    Hi thanks for sharing I’ve made this recipe and every one loved them I did it with regular sweet condensed milk but I just made it with chocolate sweet condensed milk to and then I’m doing it with caramel sweetened condensed milk next eagle brand has them in those flavors and then 2 more batches of the regular sweetened condensed milk I cant keep them round very long thanks again for sharing

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      November 19, 2019 at 3:57 pm

      WHAAAAAAA I have never seen chocolate or caramel sweetened condensed milk!!! I am so looking for those next time I hit up the store!

      Reply
  71. Carol Knighten

    November 15, 2019 at 2:16 pm

    5 stars
    great recipe.

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      November 19, 2019 at 3:52 pm

      Thank you so much! I’m so glad you like them

      Reply
  72. CasSandra DeWeber

    January 15, 2020 at 9:59 pm

    What would happen if i used less butter? this is similar to an old recipe i found in highschool but calls for twice as much butter

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      February 2, 2020 at 9:46 pm

      depending on how thick it is it could work. Candy making is chemistry so you don’t want to change too much. But feel free to try it!

      Reply
  73. linda

    February 14, 2020 at 1:57 pm

    Love the recipe followed it turned out great. Just watched the video and noticed when you got to the milk you said evaporated milk!! I could see you did use sweetened condensed milk.

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      April 18, 2020 at 7:55 pm

      just said the wrong thing in the video and didn’t catch it until it had been live for like over a year. ugh

      Reply
  74. Michelle Orndorff

    March 29, 2021 at 8:08 pm

    I don’t have an air popper, but I have a device that I can pop regular popcorn kernels in the microwave in. When you say “batches,” how much popcorn is that? In one place you said 30 cups (I think) to go with the one batch of caramel. Is that how much I should make?

    Reply
    • Ashlee Marie

      March 30, 2021 at 10:30 am

      You should have 15-30 cups of popped popcorn depending on how many popcorn balls you want. That should be 1/2 – 1 cup of popcorn kernels

      Reply

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