Name: Homemade Kettle Corn Seasoning Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup mushroom popcorn kernels; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; ½-1 tsp sea salt (to taste); ¼ cup neutral flavored cooking oil (canola, vegetable, or avocado oil)

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Introduction

Kettle corn is a perfect sweet and salty snack that’s easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. This recipe delivers that classic crunchy popcorn coated in a light caramelized sugar glaze within minutes. It’s a delightful treat for movie nights or anytime you crave something deliciously addictive.

A round wooden bowl filled with white popcorn sprinkled with a light layer of orange seasoning evenly spread on top, the popcorn pieces showing fluffy, slightly textured surfaces with some small brown kernels visible underneath. The bowl is placed on a soft rust-colored striped cloth on a white marbled surface, with a few scattered pieces of popcorn around the bowl for a casual look. The lighting highlights the contrast between the white popcorn and the seasoning, creating a warm and inviting feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¼ cup neutral flavored cooking oil (such as canola, vegetable, or avocado oil)
½ cup mushroom popcorn kernels
⅓ cup granulated sugar
½ to 1 teaspoon sea salt, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Place the oil and 3 popcorn kernels in a large, wide, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add half of the sugar and cover with a lid or aluminum foil.
Step 2: Shake the pan frequently to prevent the sugar from burning as the oil heats. Once the kernels pop, remove the lid and carefully add the remaining popcorn kernels, sugar, and salt.
Step 3: Cover the pan again and return it to the heat. Shake constantly and vigorously until the popcorn finishes popping, approximately 3 to 4 more minutes.
Step 4: Remove the pan from heat when there is about 2 seconds between pops. Take off the lid and immediately transfer the popcorn to a large bowl to avoid burning. Stir occasionally to break up clumps and discard any unpopped or overly caramelized kernels. Add any additional seasonings if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use mushroom popcorn kernels for larger, fluffier popped pieces that hold the sweet coating well.
Adjust the salt amount to your preference, starting low and adding more as needed.
For a unique twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the sugar before popping for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store cooled kettle corn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its crispness. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause the popcorn to become stale. Refresh slightly stale popcorn by warming it in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

A wooden bowl full of white popcorn sprinkled with a light orange seasoning, showing a mix of fluffy textures with some kernels fully popped and others partially, placed on a white marbled surface with a few popcorn pieces scattered around. Behind the bowl is a folded reddish orange towel with white stripes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of popcorn kernel?

Yes, but mushroom kernels are recommended because they pop larger and hold the coating better. Butterfly kernels can be used but may result in a less even glaze.

How do I prevent the sugar from burning?

Shaking the pan frequently while heating and popping helps distribute heat evenly and keeps the sugar from settling and burning. Using medium heat also reduces the risk of burning.