1. Prepare Your Popcorn

• Pop the Popcorn: Use 8 cups of popped popcorn. For best results, use an air popper to minimize oil and maintain a light texture. Alternatively, you can pop kernels on the stovetop with a bit of oil.
• Transfer to a Large Bowl: Place the freshly popped popcorn into a large mixing bowl. Ensure the bowl is spacious enough to allow for easy mixing later.
• Line the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, shiny side up. Spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Caramel Sauce

• Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
• Add Brown Sugar and Corn Syrup: Once the butter is melted, add 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup to the saucepan. Stir continuously to combine the ingredients.
• Cook the Mixture: Allow the mixture to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This ensures that the sugar dissolves completely and the caramel begins to thicken.

3. Incorporate the Marshmallows

• Add Marshmallows: Reduce the heat to low and add the entire 10 oz. bag of large marshmallows (approximately 35 pieces) to the caramel mixture. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and integrated.
• Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This adds a subtle depth to the caramel flavor.

4. Combine Caramel with Popcorn

• Pour Over Popcorn: Gradually pour the marshmallow-caramel mixture over the popped popcorn in the large bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir to ensure even coating.
• Spread Onto Baking Sheet: Transfer the caramel-coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out in an even layer to allow for uniform cooling and setting.

5. Add Festive Toppings

• Cool the Mixture: Let the popcorn mixture cool completely at room temperature. This allows the caramel to harden, giving the treat its signature crunch.
• Optional: Drizzle with White Chocolate: For an extra layer of flavor, melt 1/2 cup of white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled popcorn. Use a spoon or piping bag for a decorative effect.
• Add Sprinkles: While the white chocolate is still wet, sprinkle red and green sprinkles over the popcorn for a festive touch. Alternatively, you can skip this step for a more understated look.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Break Into Clusters: Once everything is set, break the popcorn into clusters. Serve in festive bowls or store in airtight containers for gift-giving.
• Enjoy Your Creation! Indulge in your homemade Christmas Marshmallow Caramel Corn and watch it disappear in no time!