Sweet Spicy Salty Popcorn
This popcorn snack offers a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and salty flavors, ideal for movie nights, parties, or anytime you want a fun twist on classic popcorn.
Equipment
- 1 large pot for stovetop popping
- 1 small bowl to mix seasonings
- 1 small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl to melt butter
- 1 air popper optional for air-popped popcorn
Ingredients
- 12 cups popped popcorn about ½ cup unpopped kernels
- 2 –3 tablespoons oil for stovetop popping or use air-popped
- 2 –3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 –3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 –2 teaspoons chili powder adjust for heat
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon optional
- Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add a few test kernels; when they pop, add remaining kernels and cover. Shake occasionally until popping slows, then remove from heat.
- Alternatively, pop popcorn using an air popper according to its instructions.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl.
- Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl. Drizzle melted butter over it and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the popcorn and toss again until well coated.
- Taste and add more salt or spice as desired.
- Serve immediately while warm and crisp.
Notes
- Adjust chili powder and cayenne to control heat level.
- For stickier popcorn, add brown sugar to melted butter before tossing.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt after tossing for extra crunch.
- Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
- Store cooled popcorn in airtight container up to 1–2 days, best fresh.