Easy Caramel Apple Popcorn

Caramel Apple Popcorn

One of my favorite treats has always been caramel popcorn, I also really love caramel apples, so I thought, “Why not combine the two?”

I remember sleepovers with my Grandma Beverly always included some type of popcorn, usually both salty and sweet. I think that’s why I love this treat so much.

She’s also the one that taught me how to make Christmas caramels, which are always a hit around here! I used the base for her Christmas caramel for my recipe and tweaked it a little to make it my own.

Caramel Apple Popcorn

1/2 cup of butter
1 can of sweetened condensed milk (This can will be your measuring cup after you pour out the sweetened condensed milk, so don’t throw it away!)
1 can of brown sugar (See above)
1 can of Karo Syrup
1 can of Caramel Apple Cider Drink Mix (We like the Stephen’s brand.)
3 bags of microwave popcorn
3 or 4 of your favorite apples, diced

Caramel Apple Popcorn

Directions:

Pop your popcorn and put it aside in a large mixing bowl, make sure you do this before you start the caramel because you can’t stop stirring the caramel or it will burn. Dice your apples and set aside.
Combine butter, brown sugar, Karo syrup, sweetened condensed milk, and caramel apple cider mix in a large heavy pot or saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 7-10 minutes, or until it reaches the soft ball stage. (You can use a candy thermometer, or you can use a small cup of water to test the caramel by pouring a spoonful of the caramel into the cold water and then try rolling it into a ball in between your fingers after it cools in the water for a couple of seconds.)
Finally, combine the caramel, popcorn, and apples in a large mixing bowl. Let the caramel cool and enjoy the caramelly goodness!

* If you want, you can swap the fresh apples for dried apples. I’ve made it both ways and it’s delicious either way.

Give it a try and let me know what you think! I think it’s heavenly!