Save Maple Bacon Caramel Corn Cups are the ultimate mashup of salty, sweet, and smoky flavors nestled in a crunchy caramel cup. When I first created these for a football watch party, they disappeared before halftime, now they are my go-to for holidays and gatherings. If you are looking for something that stands out on the snack table but is still approachable to make, this one is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
I still remember the first batch filling the kitchen with a warm maple and bacon aroma, the neighbors even knocked to ask what was baking.
Ingredients
- Popcorn Kernels: Use freshly popped corn for best crunch Microwave works but stovetop popcorn is top-tier for texture
- Bacon: Use thick-cut good-quality bacon for crispy bits and deep smoky richness Fry until extra crisp and blot to remove grease
- Unsalted Butter: Quality butter makes the caramel luxuriously rich Go for a European-style butter for more depth
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives sweetness and a subtle molasses touch Pack it in the measuring cup for accuracy
- Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup imparts real warmth and earthiness Avoid pancake syrup for authentic flavor
- Kosher Salt: A generous pinch counters the sweetness and highlights bacon notes Use flaky finishing salt if desired
- Baking Soda: Essential for a tender caramel that coats each kernel evenly Check that your box is fresh
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors go for pure extract if you can splurge
Instructions
- Prepare the Popcorn:
- Pop the corn using your preferred method until you have about eight cups of fluffy kernels Pick out any unpopped pieces so no one gets a hard bite
- Cook the Bacon:
- Dice the bacon into small bits and fry in a skillet over medium-high heat Stir frequently until very crispy and golden brown Drain on a paper towel and let cool
- Make the Maple Caramel:
- In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium heat Add brown sugar and maple syrup whisking constantly until dissolved Bring to a slow boil and let bubble for four to five minutes stirring to prevent burning until it forms a thick glossy caramel
- Add Vanilla and Baking Soda:
- Remove caramel from heat and immediately whisk in vanilla extract and baking soda The mixture will foam and lighten, keep stirring to evenly combine
- Combine Popcorn Bacon and Caramel:
- In a large bowl quickly toss popcorn and bacon bits together Pour over the hot caramel and stir with a spatula to coat every kernel Work fast as the caramel sets rapidly
- Fill Muffin Tins:
- Grease a standard muffin pan and scoop the caramel corn mixture into each cup Press gently but firmly to mold into cup shapes Let set for fifteen to twenty minutes at room temperature for the caramel to harden
- Unmold and Serve:
- Loosen the edges around each cup with a thin knife and gently lift out Your cups are ready for an extra bacon sprinkle or a caramel drizzle if you want to dress them up
Save I am a huge fan of pure maple syrup in this recipe because it has a complex flavor you just cannot fake The best family story is when my dad asked what the secret ingredient was and was shocked to learn it was maple syrup not honey
Storage Tips
Let cups cool fully before storing to avoid sticking in airtight containers in a single layer They last up to four days at room temperature Keep away from warmth or humidity so caramel stays crisp If stacking separate with wax paper
Ingredient Substitutions
Use turkey bacon for a lighter option Try coconut oil instead of butter if you need something dairy free Cashew or pecan pieces can be tossed in for added crunch Ditch the vanilla if you prefer a purer caramel taste
Serving Suggestions
Serve these at fall gatherings game nights or tuck a few cups into lunchboxes for an awesome treat I like them drizzled with a bit of extra caramel and a sprinkle of flaky salt for guests who love a sweet and savory experience
Cultural and Historical Context
Caramel popcorn cups have long been a fun spin on the classic popcorn ball Popular at county fairs and holiday parties the maple and bacon twist brings a bit of North American breakfast nostalgia into the world of snacks It is a blend of classic and creative that always gets people talking
Save These Maple Bacon Caramel Corn Cups are a unique way to spice up any gathering Everyone asks for seconds and the bacon wins over even the sweets skeptics
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What kind of bacon works best?
Thick-cut, smoky bacon is recommended for robust flavor and crispy texture.
- → Can I substitute maple syrup?
Yes, honey or golden syrup can be used, but maple syrup provides distinctive flavor.
- → How do I keep the caramel from hardening?
Cook caramel mixture on low heat and use immediately to coat the popcorn evenly.
- → Are the cups served warm or chilled?
They can be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled for firmer texture.
- → Will the popcorn stay crunchy?
Store the finished cups in an airtight container to preserve crunchiness.