Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn Recipe

Popcorn kernels: The base of the recipe, these will pop into fluffy, crunchy popcorn.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the popcorn, creating a delightful contrast with the salt.

Ground cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sugar.

Butter: Melted and drizzled over the popcorn to help the cinnamon sugar mixture stick.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

When making popcorn, ensure the pot is heated evenly over medium heat before adding the kernels. This helps to prevent burning and ensures that all the kernels pop uniformly. Once the initial kernels pop, quickly add the rest and cover the pot, shaking it occasionally to keep the kernels moving. This technique helps distribute the heat evenly and reduces the risk of burning. When mixing the cinnamon and sugar with the butter-coated popcorn, use a large mixing bowl to ensure even coating. Toss gently but thoroughly to make sure every piece is flavored.

• popcorn kernels - Substitute with puffed rice: Puffed rice can provide a similar light and airy texture, though it won't have the same crunch as popcorn.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle coconut flavor and works well for coating the popcorn.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more nuanced flavor and often contains additional minerals.

• Allow the popcorn to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the popcorn soggy.
• Use an airtight container to maintain the popcorn's crispiness. Mason jars, resealable plastic bags, or Tupperware work well.
• Store the popcorn in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A pantry or cupboard is ideal.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the popcorn. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
• When ready to enjoy, let the frozen popcorn sit at room temperature for a few minutes. It will thaw quickly and retain its crunch.
• Avoid refrigerating the popcorn as the moisture can make it stale and chewy.
• If the popcorn loses its crispiness, you can refresh it by spreading it on a baking sheet and warming it in a 250°F oven for about 5 minutes.

• Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the cinnamon sugar popcorn evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the popcorn is warmed and slightly crisp.

• Use a microwave-safe bowl to reheat the popcorn. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid to trap moisture. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds, then check and stir. Repeat if necessary until the popcorn is warm.

• For a stovetop method, place the popcorn in a large skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the popcorn.

• If you have an air fryer, set it to 300°F (150°C). Place the popcorn in the air fryer basket and heat for 2-3 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even warming.

• Pot: A large pot with a lid is essential for popping the popcorn kernels evenly and preventing them from flying out.

• Lid: The lid is necessary to cover the pot while the kernels are popping, ensuring they stay inside.

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is used to transfer the popped popcorn and mix it with the butter and cinnamon sugar.

• Small bowl: A small bowl is needed to mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together.

• Measuring cups: Measuring cups are used to accurately measure the popcorn kernels, sugar, and butter.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to measure the ground cinnamon and salt.

• Spoon: A spoon is useful for mixing the sugar and cinnamon in the small bowl.

• Spatula: A spatula or large spoon is used to toss the popcorn with the melted butter and cinnamon sugar mixture.

• Stovetop: The stovetop is used to heat the pot and pop the popcorn kernels.

• Oven mitts: Oven mitts are important for handling the hot pot and lid safely.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the popcorn kernels, sugar, cinnamon, and butter beforehand to streamline the process.

Use microwave popcorn: Opt for microwave popcorn to skip the stovetop popping step.

Mix spices in advance: Combine the sugar and cinnamon ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt the butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.

Use a large bowl: Use a large mixing bowl to easily toss and coat the popcorn with the butter and cinnamon sugar mixture.