Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Prepare the Popcorn: Pop the popcorn using your preferred method and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels.
Make the Caramel Sauce: a. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. b. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
Cook the Caramel: Continue to boil the caramel mixture without stirring for 4-5 minutes. It should reach a golden brown color.
Add Baking Soda and Vanilla: Remove the caramel sauce from heat and quickly stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up.
Coat the Popcorn: Pour the hot caramel sauce over the popped popcorn and gently stir to coat the popcorn evenly.
Bake in the Oven: Divide the caramel-coated popcorn between the prepared baking sheets, spreading it into an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
Cool Completely: Allow the caramel corn to cool completely on the baking sheets. It will continue to crisp up as it cools.
Break Into Clusters: Once cooled, break the caramel corn into clusters or individual pieces.
Serve and Enjoy: Store the Homemade Caramel Corn in an airtight container and enjoy the sweet and crunchy goodness whenever the craving strikes!
