Homemade Caramel Popcorn Without Corn Syrup

Learn how to make the best caramel popcorn without corn syrup. And it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you probably have on hand.

In my opinion it can be hard to find a good caramel corn. If you’ve ever had a really good batch, you’ll know what I mean. And I’m talking better than what comes in those holiday canisters. 

So I decided to make my own version using just a few ingredients. And the best part is you won’t need corn syrup, baking soda or a candy thermometer to make this easy recipe! 

Cooking the perfect caramel sauce may seem difficult, but I am going to walk you through step-by-step so you get the best caramel popcorn.

This easy homemade caramel corn recipe is one of our favorite treats. It’s perfect for a Fall snack, party treat or a gift from your kitchen. Or change things up and make a batch for movie night – you might want to make a double batch because it will disappear fast!

I like to make homemade popcorn in the Instant Pot, but I’ve also included stovetop directions if you prefer to cook it that way. For more popcorn snacks be sure to check out my s’mores popcorn, sweet and salty fall snack mix and bunny bait recipes.

Caramel Popcorn Ingredients Needed 

• coconut oil – it adds a subtle, sweet flavor to the popped corn but you can use vegetable oil if that’s what you have on hand
• popcorn kernels – make sure your kernels are fresh
• salt – it’s optional but balances the sweetness of the caramel
• granulated white sugar – we’re using sugar in place of the syrup
• water
• butter – adds richness to the caramel sauce
• whole milk – makes the caramel creamy

How to Make Caramel Popcorn Without Corn Syrup

Stovetop Popcorn Instructions 

Add the coconut oil to a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, pour in the popcorn kernels and stir to coat. 

Stir constantly until they begin to pop, then cover. Leave the lid on until all of the kernels have popped or you go about 20 seconds without hearing any popping. 

Toss with salt, transfer to a large bowl and set aside. 

Instant Pot Popcorn Instructions 

Add the oil to the inner pot and press Saute. Once it’s melted, stir in the kernels so they are coated evenly. 

Place the lid on (I use this glass lid) and keep the pot covered until you no longer hear the kernels popping. Turn off the Instant Pot, transfer the popped corn to a large bowl, and set aside. 

How To Make The Homemade Caramel Sauce 

Add the water and sugar to a saucepan over medium heat. DO NOT stir while the sugar is melting. 

Once the mixture turns light brown, add the butter and melt it. After the butter has completely melted, slowly pour in the milk, stir, and cook for 5 minutes. 

Remove from the heat and allow the caramel to thicken as it cools. 

As soon as it thickens up, pour half of the caramel mixture on the popcorn and stir to coat. Chill the caramel popcorn in the refrigerator for 1 hour. 

Remove from the fridge and pour the remaining sauce on. Chill again until the popcorn has set up. 

Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• For a richer caramel, use heavy cream in place of the whole milk.
• Drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel corn after it’s set up for a decadent treat.
• For a Cracker Jacks style popcorn, mix in some salted peanuts just before you chill it for a second time. 
• Add a little cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice or even cayenne pepper to the caramel sauce if you like a little flavorful spice.

How Long Does Homemade Caramel Popcorn Last? 

It’s best eaten on the day you make it, but will stay fresh for up to 1 week. Keep it in an airtight container or zip top bag and store at room temperature. 

If you would like to give caramel corn as a gift during the holiday season, store it in a Mason jar and tie a festive ribbon around the jar. Not only does it look pretty, Mason jars are great for keeping the air out so the popcorn stays crunchy. 

Nothing beats a batch of freshly made crunchy caramel corn, and this recipe couldn’t be easier to make. This sweet, salty snack is sure to be a family favorite!