Copycat Garret’s Popcorn Recipe

Garrett’s Popcorn is not just a treat; it’s a quintessential taste of Chicago, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for its quality and distinctive flavor profile.
You get rich, buttery caramel popcorn with savory cheddar cheese popcorn.
(Also – if you’re not from Chicago, you could just order it too).
Copycat Garrett's Popcorn
6
servings5
minutes15
minutes300
kcalRather than ordering it online, make it at home.
Ingredients
- Caramel Corn
3 quarts popped popcorn (from about 1/2 cup kernels)
3/4 cup brown sugar
6 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons corn syrup
1 teaspoon sea salt
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
- Cheese Corn
3 quarts popped popcorn (from about 1/2 cup kernels)
4 tablespoons melted butter
3/4 cup cheddar cheese powder
2 teaspoons ground mustard powder
Directions
- Pop Popcorn
- Pop 6 quarts of popcorn according to package instructions. Divide into 2 large clean paper grocery bags, removing any unpopped kernels.
- Caramel Corn
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, salt, and vanilla. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, stir, then microwave for another 2 minutes until boiling.
- Immediately stir in baking soda and pour over popcorn in one bag. Fold the top of the bag over a couple of times and shake well.
- Microwave for 1 minute, shake vigorously, then microwave for 45-60 seconds more, checking at 45 seconds to avoid burning.
- Pour caramel corn onto waxed paper, break up clumps if needed, and allow to cool completely to harden. If needed, microwave for an additional 30-45 seconds to crisp.
- Cheese Corn
- Open the second bag and shake vigorously while slowly pouring melted butter over the popcorn.
- Mix cheddar cheese powder and mustard powder, then sprinkle over popcorn while shaking vigorously to coat evenly.
- Close the bag and fold the top down. Shake well to thoroughly coat popcorn.
- Microwave for 30-45 seconds to dry out the popcorn, then allow to cool before mixing.
- Mix Them
- Once both popcorns are ready, mix them by hand and store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Notes
- Store cooled popcorn in airtight containers or zip bags to maintain freshness. It will last for some time but may become stale over extended periods.
3 Comments
Just love Garrett’s! It’s a lifesaver when I need a quick treat for the kids or for me during those rare quiet moments. Got to have that cheddar and caramel mix.
Totally agree, Samantha! My kids can’t get enough of it. Easy win for sure.
garrett’s popcorn is legit the best snack during finals. caramel and cheddar is a game changer.
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