April 11, 2024
Review RecipeCheese Popcorn
Experience the yummy goodness of our cheese popcorn, a snack that combines the classic allure of popcorn with the taste of cheddar.
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Dive into a bowl of savory perfection with our cheese popcorn recipe. With each crunchy kernel coated with a decadent blend of cheddar cheese goodness plus the crunch of popcorn, this treat is sure to become your go-to favorite.
Cheese Popcorn Ingredients
The cheese will take regular buttery popcorn up a notch. The irresistible salty tang will make you wonder why you have never made this tasty treat.
You’ll need:
- 3 tablespoons of unrefined coconut oil
- ½ cup of popcorn kernels
- ¼ cup of unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup of cheddar cheese powder
- ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt (optional if needed)
PRO TIP: Popcorn kernels do best when popping with unrefined coconut oil. We do not recommend popping your popcorn in just butter, as it tends to burn very easily. The butter is best for added flavor and to help the cheese powder to stick to the popcorn.
Olive oil and vegetable oil will also work to pop the popcorn, but the coconut oil gives the popcorn the best “movie theater” flavor.
Substitutions and Additions
CHEESE POWDER: There are many different cheddar cheese powder brands available. Choosing a good quality brand will ensure the best flavor for your cheese popcorn.
You can adjust the amount of cheese powder used for your popcorn according to your tastes, starting with a lesser amount and adding a tablespoon at a time until your popcorn is seasoned to your liking.
The cheddar cheese powder yields a flavor the most, like what you find in the big tins of popcorn (with caramel corn, butter, and cheddar popcorn) widely sold during the holidays.
In a pinch, you can use a packet (approximately a quarter cup) of the cheese powder that comes inside a box of macaroni & cheese.
This cheese powder is not as flavorful as some of the cheddar cheese brands I have found online; however, it is a good substitute.
POWDER FLAVORS: We also tested this with the nacho cheese popcorn seasoning powder that is sold with popcorn in the grocery store. It is good, but it has a little spicy cheese flavor.
The Kernel Seasons brand also sells many different flavors, such as butter, cinnamon, white cheddar, and more.
This is a great product to add something extra to your popcorn; however, the nacho cheddar will have a very different taste than if you use cheddar cheese powder.
COCONUT OIL: You can substitute unrefined coconut oil with olive oil or vegetable oil. However, coconut oil delivers that authentic “movie theater” taste.
How To Make This Cheese Popcorn Recipe
If you already know how to make popcorn on the stovetop, making this cheesy popcorn will be a breeze. If you don’t, fear not, we’ll show you how with our step-by-step instructions.
STEP ONE: In a large (6-8 quart) stock pot, on medium-high heat, add the coconut oil and three to four single popcorn kernels.
Once these kernels start to pop, your oil is ready, and you will add the remaining half cup of popcorn kernels to the pot.
Cover the pot and allow the popcorn kernels to all pop without removing the lid. This can take between two to four minutes.
You will need to give the pot a little shake occasionally to ensure that all the kernels are getting evenly heated and not burning.
Note that once the sound of the popcorn popping has slowed greatly, this is an indicator that all your kernels have popped and your popcorn can be removed from the heat.
PRO TIP: If the popcorn has increased in volume to completely fill your pot (especially if you used a small 6 quart-sized pot), transfer the popcorn to a large bowl to make it easier to toss and coat your popcorn with the butter, cheese powder, and salt.
STEP TWO: Remove the pot from the heat, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the popcorn, and add the cheese powder and salt. Gently toss all the popcorn until evenly coated.
How To Serve
Looking for creative ways to serve your homemade cheddar cheese popcorn? Here are some enticing suggestions:
Pair your cheese popcorn with your favorite film for the ultimate movie night. Don’t forget the cozy blanket, comfy couch, and mug of hot chocolate.
Serve this cheesy treat during game day gatherings, along with a few appetizers, including our pizza sliders and pigs in a blanket.
At your next party, present cheese popcorn in stylish bowls for an elegant touch to your snack spread. Add a bowl of our ranch Chex mix and firecracker crackers for a variety.
Kids adore the cheesy goodness of this popcorn. Make it the star of your child’s birthday celebration. Add a batch of our rainbow popcorn for something sweet and colorful.
For even more snacks to munch on, don’t forget to have a look at our onion rings and cheese sticks.
MORE SNACK RECIPES
When to Serve
Looking for the perfect occasion to serve cheese popcorn? Here are a few ideal scenarios:
MOVIE NIGHT IN: Gather your loved ones for a cozy movie night, complete with our indulgent cheese popcorn.
FAMILY GAME NIGHT: Spice up your family game night with a bowl of cheesy popcorn. It’s the perfect snack to keep everyone energized and entertained.
BIRTHDAY PARTY TREAT: Whether it’s a child’s birthday party or an adult celebration, our cheese popcorn adds a fun touch to the festivities.
CASUAL GET TOGETHER: Hosting friends for a casual get-together? This cheesy snack is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for more.
Storage
If you have more cheese popcorn than you can eat in one sitting, we have a few helpful storage tips.
MAKE AHEAD: You can prepare the stovetop popcorn ahead of time and store it in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to two days.
Keep it at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
IN THE FRIDGE: It’s not recommended to store this recipe in the fridge, as it can make the popcorn lose its crispness.
IN THE FREEZER: Freezing isn’t suitable for this recipe, as it can affect the texture and taste of the popcorn.
REHEATING: If you need to reheat the popcorn, use a microwave or stovetop to gently warm it. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may affect the crunchiness.
Why We Love This Recipe
SIMPLE AND QUICK: This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and time. It’s the go-to snack for sudden cravings or surprise guests.
IRRESISTIBLE: The combination of cheddar cheese powder and butter creates a mouthwatering combo that’s hard to resist.
CROWD-PLEASER: Whether you’re hosting a casual movie night, a kid’s birthday party, or a game day gathering, this recipe fits the bill.
CUSTOMIZABLE: You can adjust the amount of cheddar cheese powder to your liking, making it as cheesy as you desire. Plus, there’s room for experimentation with different cheese powders or even other savory or sweet flavors.
FAMILY FAVORITE: Kids and adults alike adore the cheesy goodness of this popcorn. It’s a snack that brings smiles to everyone’s faces.
ADDICTIVELY CRUNCHY: The texture of the popcorn is crisp and satisfying, making it an ideal snack for those who crave a crunch.
Our cheddar cheese popcorn recipe is your ticket to snacking. With its simple preparation, mouthwatering cheesiness, and versatility for any occasion, it’s the ultimate recipe for feed your cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe?
It’s best to use plain popcorn kernels for this recipe to achieve the desired taste and texture.
Can I store leftovers in the fridge?
It’s not recommended to store this popcorn in the fridge, as it can affect its crunchiness.
Can I freeze cheese popcorn?
Freezing is not suitable for this homemade popcorn recipe, as it may alter the texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure that the cheddar cheese powder you use is gluten-free for a gluten-free version of cheese popcorn.
How can I make the popcorn extra cheesy?
Adjust the amount of cheddar cheese powder to your liking, adding a little at a time until it’s as cheesy as you desire.
Can I use a different type of oil for popping?
While you can use other oils like olive or vegetable oil, unrefined coconut oil imparts the best flavor for that classic “movie theater” taste.
What if I don’t have cheddar cheese powder?
In a pinch, you can use the cheese packet from a box of macaroni & cheese for a similar flavor.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can make cheese popcorn ahead and store it in an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature.
How do I prevent the popcorn from burning?
Regularly shaking the pot while the kernels are popping helps distribute heat evenly, preventing burning.
Can I use different cheese flavors?
Absolutely! Experiment with various cheese powder flavors to create unique popcorn varieties.
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Cheese Popcorn
Experience the yummy goodness of our cheese popcorn, a snack that combines the classic allure of popcorn with the taste of cheddar.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Servings 6
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unrefined coconut oil
- ½ cup popcorn kernels, Orville Redenbacher brand
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup cheddar cheese powder, Hoosier Hill Farm brand -Amazon
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt, optional if needed
Instructions
- In a large (6-8 quart) stock pot, on medium-high heat, add the coconut oil and 3-4 single popcorn kernels. Once these kernels start to pop, your oil is ready, and you will add the remaining ½ cup of popcorn kernels to the pot. Cover the pot and allow the popcorn kernels to all pop without removing the lid. This can take between 2-4 minutes. You will need to give the pot a little shake occasionally to ensure that all the kernels are getting evenly heated and not burning. Note – once the sound of the popcorn popping has slowed greatly, this is an indicator that all your kernels have popped and your popcorn can be removed from the heat.
- Remove the pot from the heat, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the popcorn, and add the cheese powder and salt. Gently toss all the popcorn until evenly coated.
Notes
- Popcorn kernels do best when popping with unrefined coconut oil. We do not recommend popping your popcorn in just butter, as it tends to burn very easily. The butter is best for added flavor and to help the cheese powder to stick to the popcorn. Olive oil and vegetable oil will also work to pop the popcorn, but the coconut oil gives the popcorn the best “movie theater” flavor.
- If the popcorn has increased in volume to completely fill your pot (especially if you used a small 6 quart-sized pot), transfer the popcorn to a large bowl to make it easier to toss and coat your popcorn with the butter, cheese powder, and salt.
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