Popcorn is best known as a movie night snack, but thanks to tons of DIY popcorn recipes, you can have gourmet popcorn anytime you want!
It’s still perfect to eat while enjoying a fun movie with the family, but it’s also great as a healthy snack, dessert, or even an indulgent breakfast for the kids!
The next time you want to enjoy delicious popcorn, don’t run to the store! Make it yourself! This list of over 45gourmet popcorn recipes is sure to get your next snack timepopping!
Whether you love popcorn in general or you’re a real connoisseur that only goes in for a drizzled gourmet chocolate popcorn recipe, we have the best, most flavorful popcorn options in the world here. Just keep scrolling to see them all.
Table of Contents
Why is popcorn a great snack?
Popcorn is one of the greatest snacks out there! Not only does it taste great, but compared to other snack options, it’s much healthier.
A single three-cup serving of air-popped popcorn contains just 93 calories and provides 1.2 grams of dietary fiber that plays an important role in digestive health.
It’s also a whole grain, which can help you stay full longer than other snacks like chips or candy, making popcorn a great choice if you’re trying to satisfy hunger without overindulging.
Furthermore, because it’s so low in calories but flavorful, you don’t have to feel guilty after selecting popcorn as your snack.
Popcorn really is a fantastic way to satisfy your snack cravings without breaking your diet.
What is the difference between white and yellow popcorn kernels?
Popcorn kernels come in two varieties based on color: white and yellow. One of the more apparent differences is that yellow popcorn kernels are larger than their white counterparts, making them more resistant to burning in hot oil.
This size difference can be observed even when popping – yellow popcorn expands at a greater rate and tends to be crunchier than white popcorn.
The flavor of both varieties can range from sweet to savory due to natural sugars or salts, although yellow kernels typically taste slightly sweeter than white ones.
Although convenient for movie nights or days spent outside, popcorn lovers need to note which type of kernel suits their taste buds best!
How long does popped popcorn stay fresh?
Popcorn is a classic movie night snack. We all know it tastes deliciously fresh and hot right off the stove – but how long will those leftovers stay fresh? The answer is it depends.
If stored correctly, uneaten popcorn can stay crunchy and delicious for up to two weeks if kept at a consistent temperature and humidity level in an airtight container.
However, moisture can quickly degrade popcorn, making it stale and flavorless.
To keep your popcorn in prime condition for as long as possible, try storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or pantry where temperatures remain cool and relatively stable.
How do I know that popcorn is stale?
Popcorn is an incredibly popular snack item easily recognizable by its appearance but not always by taste.
It can be challenging to tell if popcorn has gone stale as it may still look fresh yet taste bland and lack flavor. The critical indicator of staleness in popcorn is the texture; a fresh batch should have a crisp texture, with each kernel firm, while stale popcorn will appear limp or soft.
Additionally, the aroma of freshly made popcorn will be much stronger than the scent of stale popcorn, which often has no discernible odor depending on how long it’s been sitting.
By using these simple techniques to check the texture and smell of your bag of popcorn, you can accurately determine whether or not it’s still safe to consume.
What are the most popular toppings for popcorn?
Popcorn is a classic snack that can be served in many different ways, but the most popular toppings are usually a combination of various seasonings and sauces.
Salt, butter, caramel, cheese, and garlic powder are among the commonly seen ingredients.
Sweet and savory seasonings like cheddar salt or honey barbecue have also become very popular. Sprinkles of nuts or pretzels on top also add crunch and flavor to your popcorn.
Ultimately, it’s up to each individual’s preferences regarding what flavors they’d like to enjoy paired with their popcorn.
Is popcorn a snack or a dessert?
Popcorn is traditionally thought of as a savory snack, but the perception is shifting thanks to new recipes and flavorings.
Recent trends in popcorn are veering away from its traditional movie theater style with seasonings such as parmesan cheese, olive oil, and dill weed.
Cocoa powder, honey, and other sweet ingredients can create caramelized popcorn with all the appeal of a dessert.
To push the boundaries further, there’s popcorn ice cream and gourmet-style cupcakes topped with colored popcorn instead of sprinkles!
Whether considered a snack or a dessert – or both – the variety of ways to enjoy popcorn makes it an exciting treat for any occasion.
What are fun ways to serve gourmet popcorn?
Gourmet popcorn is a tasty snack that can elevate the eating experience. Instead of sticking with plain and classic flavors, people can be creative and enjoy different tastes when they serve gourmet popcorn.
For example, mixing savory herbs with melted Parmesan cheese creates an irresistible flavor, while blending light brown sugar and cinnamon holds a sweet appeal.
Similarly, adding a few drops of hot sauce to spicy popcorn yields an exciting crunchy snack.
To make gourmet popcorn even more unique, set up a toppings bar with various dried fruits, candies, and seeds for guests to personalize the snack further.
With these simple ideas for serving gourmet popcorn, people will have loads of fun experimenting with different flavors and creating their mouth-watering treats.
Over 45 Gourmet Popcorn Recipes
Gourmet Popcorn Recipes
Popcorn is best known as a movie night snack, but thanks to tons of DIY popcorn recipes, you can have gourmet popcorn anytime you want!
Photo Credit:3boysandadog.com
Crunchy Halloween Monster Munch
This sweet Halloween Snack Mix, featuring popcorn, is a sweet treat that's good for any time of the year!
Photo Credit:familyfreshmeals.com
Popcorn Bar
Plan your next family movie night with thisDIY Movie Night Popcorn Bar!
Photo Credit:butterwithasideofbread.com
Peppermint Popcorn
Enjoy a taste of the winter season anytime with this recipe forPeppermint Popcorn!
Photo Credit:lollyjane.com
White chocolate Thin Mint Popcorn
Love Girl Scout Thin Mints? Make thisWhite Chocolate Thin Mint Popcorn!
Photo Credit:simplystacie.net
Pizza Popcorn
Turn pizza night into a snack with thisPizza Popcorn!
Photo Credit:3boysandadog.com
Gourmet Unicorn Popcorn Recipe
A little taste of county fair?! Yes Please!
Photo Credit:graceandgoodeats.com
Sweet and Salty M&M Popcorn
ThisSweet & Salty M&M Popcornrecipe is a delicious, indulgent treat for kids and grown-ups!
Photo Credit:makeandtakes.com
S'mores Popcorn
Have an indoor campout with thisS'mores Popcorn!
Photo Credit:3boysandadog.com
Valentine Sugar Cookie Popcorn Recipe
Sending love via popcorn!
Photo Credit:weelicious.com
Popcorn Balls
ThesePopcorn Ballsare an excellent treat for a kids' party!
Photo Credit:nerdymamma.com
Butterbeer Popcorn
Oh, Harry Potter? Yes, yes we will definitely have some butterbeer.
Photo Credit:familyfreshmeals.com
Conversation Heart Popcorn
Spark a fun "conversation" withCandy Heart Popcorn!
Photo Credit:mysuburbankitchen.com
Taco Ranch Popcorn
Add some spice to your snack with thisTaco Ranch Popcorn!
Photo Credit:thenerdswife.com
Minions Popcorn Balls
TheseMinions Popcorn Ballsare just adorable!
Photo Credit:totallythebomb.com
White Chocolate Buttered Popcorn
Oh my. ThisWhite Chocolate Buttered Popcornlooks positively delicious.
Photo Credit:3boysandadog.com
Peanut Butter Popcorn
Get a creamy treat with thisPeanut Butter Popcorn!
Photo Credit:butterwithasideofbread.com
Chocolate Popcorn
Chocolate and popcorn come together in this recipe forChocolate Popcorn!
Photo Credit:weelicious.com
Caramel Popcorn
Learn how to makeCaramel Popcornat home!
Photo Credit:foodfolksandfun.net
Truffle Popcorn with Parmesan
ThisTruffle Popcorn with Parmesanwould be a great afternoon pick-me-up!
Photo Credit:butterwithasideofbread.com
Caramel Popcorn Cake
Make a kids' party extra fun with thisPopcorn Cake!
Photo Credit:totallythebomb.com
Shark Bait Popcorn
Plan a Shark Week party withRed Chocolate Shark Bait Popcorn!
Photo Credit:aboutamom.com
3-Ingredient Holiday Popcorn
Make a batch of White Chocolate Sprinkles Popcornand hand it out as party favors for guests!
Photo Credit:weelicious.com
Cheesy Coconut Popcorn
ThisCheesy Coconut Popcornwould be a unique treat!
Photo Credit:butterwithasideofbread.com
Pretty-in-Pink Popcorn
ThisCandied Pretty in Pink Popcornis such a sweet idea for a princess party!
Photo Credit:weelicious.com
Popcorn Trail Mix
Boost your protein with thisPopcorn Trail Mix!
Photo Credit:butterwithasideofbread.com
Caramel Popcorn for a Crowd
Have the whole neighborhood over and serveCaramel Popcorn for a Crowd!
Photo Credit:lollyjane.com
Candied Caramel Apple Popcorn
ThisCandied Caramel Apple Popcornis a fun way to enjoy the taste of fall all year!
Photo Credit:livingonadime.com
Easy Chocolate Popcorn
In a hurry? Use Hershey's candy bars to make thisEasy Chocolate Popcorn!
Photo Credit:butterwithasideofbread.com
Snickers Popcorn
Snickers is my absolute favorite candy bar. ThisSnickers Peanut Butter Popcornis right up my alley!
Photo Credit:mysuburbankitchen.com
Dark Chocolate Popcorn
Enjoy a rich treat with the family or by yourself with thisDark Chocolate Popcorn Mix.
Photo Credit:foodfolksandfun.net
Chocolate Drizzled Coconut Macaroon Popcorn
If you love coconut, thisChocolate Drizzled Coconut Macaroon Popcornwould be amazing!
Photo Credit:tipsfromatypicalmomblog.com
Tropical Jello Candied Popcorn
Use the extra boxes of Jell-O in your pantry to makeTropical Jell-O Candied Popcorn!
Photo Credit:thesimpleparent.com
Easy Princess Party Popcorn
Whip up a batch ofVanilla Princess Popcornwith your little girls!
Photo Credit:somewhatsimple.com
Kit Kat Pretzel Gourmet Popcorn
ThisKit Kat Pretzel Popcornis both sweet and salty - a perfect snack!
Photo Credit:makeandtakes.com
White Chocolate Popcorn
Melted chocolate makes thisWhite Chocolate Candy Popcornan ooey-gooey treat!
Photo Credit:thisgrandmaisfun.com
Kool-Aid Popcorn
Ever hear of using powdered drink mix to make popcorn? You can with this recipe forKool-Aid Popcorn!
Photo Credit:3boysandadog.com
Buffalo-Style Hot Popcorn Recipe
Enjoy thisBuffalo-Style Hot Popcornas a spicy snack!
Photo Credit:nerdymamma.com
Margarita Popcorn
This margarita popcorn is all about relaxing on a beach!
Photo Credit:somewhatsimple.com
Pumpkin Popcorn Balls
Get ready for harvest time with thesePumpkin Popcorn Balls!
Photo Credit:onelittleproject.com
Cinnamon Heart Popcorn
ThisCinnamon Heart Popcornis a fun, candied treat for little ones!
Photo Credit:thisgrandmaisfun.com
Birthday Cake Popcorn
ThisBirthday Cake Popcornis pretty to look at and delicious to eat!
Photo Credit:amomstake.com
Peanut Butter Popcorn Munch
Have the kids help you make a batch ofPeanut Butter Popcorn Munch.
Photo Credit:blissfullydomestic.com
Gingerbread Popcorn
Don't make gingerbread cookies this winter! MakeGingerbread Popcorninstead!
Photo Credit:thismamaloves.com
Maple Bacon Popcorn Balls
Bacon in dessert? Yes, please! Try thisMaple Bacon Popcorn Ballrecipe!
Photo Credit:thesimpleparent.com
Smores Popcorn Bark Recipe
Serve S'mores Popcorn Barkas an appetizer at your next party!
Photo Credit:eighteen25.com
Chocolate Drizzled Caramel Popcorn
Love caramel and chocolate? Have them both in this recipe forChocolate Drizzled Caramel Popcorn!
What Other Popcorn Ideas Are Out There?!
There’s so much craziness that you can put on popcorn that will take your movie night snack to the next level. While I could shower you with recipes all day long (literally–I love popcorn), I’m just going to throw out some ideas I’ve had that you might want to make a reality.
Some of the following ingredients are affiliate links on Amazon because they may be a bit hard to find in your normal store. I wanted you to be able to see exactly which things I’m talking about.
- Brown Sugar Bourbon with a sprinkle of the sugar and some bourbon flavoring oil.
- White Chocolate chunk, just melt chocolate (just 1/2 cup) and drip over popcorn laid out on parchment paper and quickly add chips.
- Peanut Butter – mix the peanut butter in with some corn syrup over medium high heat, toss with kettle corn and drizzle over popcorn laid out on baking sheets.
- Grated Parmesan just literally sprinkle parmesan cheese over your popcorn with some olive oil.
- Nutritional Yeast makes a vegan “cheese” popcorn
- Lime Zest or Lime Juice with Powdered Sugar for a key lime popcorn
Reminder, not all ingredients in these popcorn flavoring ideasare linked above, just the ones that may be a bit difficult to find or that you might be unsure of what to look for.
Must Have Homemade Popcorn Resources:
When making homemade flavored popcorn home, you really need to have the following Amazon affiliate tools on hand.