Coconut Oil Popcorn Recipe – Easy Homemade Snack

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Coconut Oil Popcorn Recipe – Easy Homemade Snack

Hey everyone! There’s just something so comforting about a big bowl of popcorn, isn’t there? Especially when it’s made fresh at home. I remember making this for the first time during a particularly cozy monsoon season – the smell of coconut oil and warm popcorn just filled the house. It’s become a family favorite ever since, and I’m so excited to share my easy coconut oil popcorn recipe with you! It’s quick, simple, and so much better than anything you can get at the cinema.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any popcorn recipe. Using coconut oil takes things to a whole new level of flavor! It adds a subtle sweetness and a lovely aroma that complements the salty, crunchy popcorn perfectly. Plus, it’s a super quick snack – ready in under 10 minutes. Perfect for movie nights, rainy afternoons, or just when you’re craving something delicious.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• ?? cup popcorn kernels (about 60-80g)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (around 30ml)
• 1 tablespoon butter (about 15g) – optional, but highly recommended!
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec. Getting the right ones makes all the difference!

Coconut Oil: Benefits and Flavor Profile

I prefer using refined coconut oil for popcorn. It has a higher smoke point, meaning it can handle the heat without burning. Plus, it has a more neutral flavor, letting the popcorn’s natural taste shine through. Unrefined coconut oil will give a stronger coconut flavor, which some people love!

Popcorn Kernels: Choosing the Right Variety

There are different types of popcorn kernels – butterfly (the classic fluffy kind) and mushroom (rounder, more durable). I usually go for butterfly kernels because they’re great for catching all that delicious seasoning.

Salt: Types and Recommendations

Regular table salt works just fine, but I love using a flaky sea salt for a little extra crunch and flavor. Himalayan pink salt is another great option!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get popping!

1. Heat the coconut oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. You want the pan nice and hot, but not smoking.
2. Add a few popcorn kernels to the oil. Once they pop, you know the oil is ready!
3. Add the remaining popcorn kernels and immediately cover the pan with a lid.
4. Now, this is important: gently shake the pan as the kernels start to pop. This helps prevent burning and ensures even cooking. Slightly opening the lid will release some steam, too.
5. Keep shaking until the popping slows down to about 2-3 seconds between pops. Then, turn off the heat.
6. Transfer the popcorn to a large bowl.
7. In the same warm pan, melt the butter (if using). Drizzle the melted butter over the popcorn, sprinkle with salt, and toss everything together really well.

Expert Tips

Want to take your popcorn game to the next level? Here are a few tricks I’ve learned over the years:

Achieving Perfectly Popped Kernels

Shaking the pan is key. It keeps the kernels moving and prevents them from scorching.

Preventing Burnt Popcorn

Don’t overheat the oil! And as soon as the popping slows down, take the pan off the heat. A little unpopped kernels are better than burnt ones, trust me.

Variations

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Here are a few of my favorite twists:

Vegan Coconut Oil Popcorn

Skip the butter! It’s delicious without it, or you can use a vegan butter substitute.

Spice Level Variations: Chili Popcorn, Masala Popcorn

My husband loves a kick! Add a pinch of chili powder or a sprinkle of chaat masala to the melted butter for a spicy treat.

Sweet Variations: Jaggery or Coconut Sugar Popcorn

For a sweeter popcorn, drizzle with melted jaggery or coconut sugar instead of butter and salt. My kids absolutely adore this!

Festival Adaptations: Diwali or Movie Night Snack

During Diwali, we sometimes add a little bit of ghee along with the coconut oil for an extra festive touch. It’s perfect for enjoying with family while watching a movie.

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately while warm and crispy! It’s best enjoyed fresh, but… let’s be real, it rarely lasts long enough to get cold.

Storage Instructions

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They might lose a little of their crispness, but they’ll still be tasty.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What type of coconut oil is best for popcorn?

Refined coconut oil is best because of its higher smoke point and neutral flavor. But unrefined works too if you like a coconutty taste!

Can I use another oil instead of coconut oil?

You can! Vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil will all work. But honestly, coconut oil really makes this recipe special.

How do I prevent the popcorn from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your pan is well-heated and use enough oil. Shaking the pan constantly also helps.

What’s the best way to season popcorn after popping?

Drizzle with melted butter or oil and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings while the popcorn is still warm. This helps everything stick!

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use less butter or skip it altogether. Air-popping the kernels is another healthy option, but you’ll miss out on the delicious coconut oil flavor!