Buttered Popcorn Recipe: Crispy, Golden, and Full of Flavor

Popcorn is a beloved snack that can be enjoyed anytime. This buttered popcorn recipe makes a crispy, golden treat that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a cozy evening at home.

Why Make This Recipe

Why settle for store-bought popcorn when you can easily make your own? This buttered popcorn recipe offers a delightful crunch and rich flavor that you can customize to your taste. Using simple ingredients, you’ll have a fresh batch of popcorn ready in no time. Plus, making it at home gives you control over the ingredients, so you can avoid unwanted additives.

How to Make Buttered Popcorn

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
• 2 tbsp high-heat neutral oil (grapeseed or avocado)
• 3 tbsp clarified butter (ghee or homemade)
• 1/2 tsp fine popcorn salt
• Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add 2–3 test kernels to the pot.
3. When the test kernels pop, add the rest of the popcorn and cover the pot.
4. Shake the pot every 10–15 seconds to avoid burning.
5. Once popping slows (2–3 seconds between pops), remove from heat.
6. In a separate pan, warm the clarified butter if it’s not already melted.
7. Place the popcorn in a large bowl and drizzle half the butter while tossing.
8. Add the remaining butter and continue tossing for even coating.
9. Sprinkle with popcorn salt and any optional seasonings to taste.
10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container once cooled.

How to Serve Buttered Popcorn

Serve your buttered popcorn in big bowls or individual cups for easy snacking. It’s a great addition to family movie nights or game days. Consider adding extra toppings like grated cheese or herbs for a unique twist.

How to Store Buttered Popcorn

To keep your buttered popcorn fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing. This will help prevent moisture from making it soggy. Enjoy within a week for the best taste and texture.

Tips to Make Buttered Popcorn

• Use fresh popcorn kernels for the best popping results.
• Adjust the oil heat carefully; too high can lead to burnt popcorn.
• Experiment with seasonings! Try adding cheese powder or chili powder for a spicy kick.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try making caramel or chocolate popcorn for a sweet treat! Just drizzle caramel sauce or melted chocolate over the popcorn after cooking.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular butter instead of clarified butter?
Yes, you can use regular butter, but it may cause your popcorn to be a bit soggy. Clarified butter has a higher smoke point, making it ideal.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this buttered popcorn recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you check the labels on any added seasonings.

3. How can I make my popcorn more flavorful?
Consider mixing in garlic powder, smoked paprika, or nutritional yeast. These simple additions can take your popcorn to the next level!

Now you’re ready to make your own crispy, golden, and flavorful popcorn! Enjoy this delightful snack as a healthy treat for yourself or share it with family and friends. Happy popping!

Buttered Popcorn

This buttered popcorn recipe makes a crispy, golden treat that’s bursting with flavor, perfect for movie nights or cozy evenings at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1/2 cup popcorn kernels Use fresh kernels for best results.
• 2 tbsp high-heat neutral oil (grapeseed or avocado) Adjust oil heat carefully.
• 3 tbsp clarified butter (ghee or homemade) Can substitute regular butter, but may be soggier.
• 1/2 tsp fine popcorn salt Optional: adjust to taste.

Optional Seasonings

• to taste garlic powder For extra flavor.
• to taste smoked paprika For a smoky kick.
• to taste nutritional yeast Adds a cheesy flavor.

Method

 

Cooking

1. Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add 2–3 test kernels to the pot.
3. When the test kernels pop, add the rest of the popcorn and cover the pot.
4. Shake the pot every 10–15 seconds to avoid burning.
5. Once popping slows (2–3 seconds between pops), remove from heat.
6. In a separate pan, warm the clarified butter if it’s not already melted.
7. Place the popcorn in a large bowl and drizzle half the butter while tossing.
8. Add the remaining butter and continue tossing for even coating.
9. Sprinkle with popcorn salt and any optional seasonings to taste.
10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container once cooled.

Notes

Store cooled popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh. Enjoy within a week for the best taste and texture.