This Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn is a delightful balance of sweetness, warmth, and crunch, making it the perfect quick snack for cozy nights in or family movie time.
With fiber-rich popcorn at its base, it offers a lighter, guilt-free treat compared to traditional desserts.
The addition of cinnamon not only enhances flavor but also provides antioxidants, while butter adds satisfying richness.
Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a simple yet irresistible everyday snack.
Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 1 Measuring Cup Set
- 1 Measuring Spoon Set
- 1 Saucepan (for melting butter)
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 12 cups hot popped popcorn unpopped kernels removed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a small mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Use a spoon to stir them together until the mixture is uniform in color and texture. This ensures that every kernel of popcorn will be evenly coated with a sweet, warm flavor. Set this bowl aside for later, so it’s ready when the popcorn is coated.
- Melt Butter and Infuse Vanilla: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently melt the unsalted butter, stirring occasionally to prevent it from browning. Once fully melted, remove from heat and immediately stir in the pure vanilla extract. The warm butter will help the vanilla flavor distribute evenly and stick to the popcorn for maximum taste. Set aside this aromatic butter mixture.
- Pop and Prepare Popcorn: Ensure your popcorn is freshly popped and that all unpopped kernels are removed. Place the hot popcorn into a large mixing bowl, making sure it has plenty of space to toss without spilling. Using freshly popped popcorn helps the butter and cinnamon sugar adhere more effectively.
- Coat Popcorn with Butter Mixture: Slowly pour the warm butter and vanilla mixture over the popcorn in the large bowl. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss the popcorn until each piece is lightly coated with the buttery mixture. Take care not to crush the fluffy popcorn while tossing.
- Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar Evenly: Once the popcorn is coated with butter, evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top. Use gentle tossing motions to distribute the sugar and cinnamon, ensuring every kernel has a sweet, aromatic coating. Taste a small handful and adjust by adding more cinnamon sugar if desired.
- Cool and Set Popcorn: Allow the coated popcorn to sit for 1–2 minutes so the butter slightly cools and the sugar adheres well. This step ensures that the popcorn will remain crisp rather than soggy, preserving the perfect crunchy texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the popcorn to a serving bowl or individual snack bags. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. This popcorn is perfect for sharing during movie nights, casual gatherings, or simply enjoying as a quick, comforting snack anytime.
Notes
- Use freshly popped popcorn for the best texture; day-old or pre-popped popcorn may not hold the butter and cinnamon sugar as well.
- Adjust sweetness and cinnamon intensity to your taste. Start with the listed amounts and add more if desired.
- Make sure to remove unpopped kernels before coating to avoid accidental bites while snacking.
- Toss gently when combining butter and cinnamon sugar to avoid crushing the fluffy popcorn.
- For a lighter version, use melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings or movie nights.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Popcorn
Achieving the perfect cinnamon sugar popcorn is all about timing and technique.
Start with freshly popped popcorn to ensure every piece is airy and crisp.
Melt the butter gently over low heat to avoid browning, which can alter the flavor.
When tossing the popcorn, use a large mixing bowl and gentle folding motions to coat the kernels evenly without crushing them.
Sprinkling the cinnamon sugar gradually rather than dumping it all at once helps prevent clumping and ensures a consistent flavor.
For an extra touch, lightly toast the cinnamon in a dry pan before mixing with sugar to deepen the aroma and create a more complex, bakery-style flavor.
Serving Suggestions For Enjoyable Snacking
Cinnamon sugar popcorn is a versatile treat that can be served in multiple ways.
For a cozy movie night, fill a large bowl and place it on the coffee table for easy sharing.
It pairs beautifully with warm drinks like hot chocolate, spiced chai, or coffee.
For a festive touch, portion it into small decorative bags or cups for parties, school events, or office snacks.
It also makes a delightful topping for ice cream or yogurt, adding a sweet, crunchy texture.
This snack is simple, yet it elevates everyday moments into something special.
Storage Tips To Maintain Freshness
To keep your cinnamon sugar popcorn fresh and crunchy, store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can make the popcorn soggy. Ideally, consume within 2–3 days for optimal crispness.
If you need to store it longer, consider resealable snack bags with as much air removed as possible.
For large batches, you can store smaller portions separately, so you always have a fresh, crunchy serving ready.
Re-tossing lightly in a warm oven for 2–3 minutes can help restore crispness if it softens slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe with air-popped popcorn?
Yes! Air-popped popcorn works perfectly and is even lighter. Just ensure it’s freshly popped, and you may need slightly less butter for even coating.
2. Can I use a sugar substitute?
Absolutely! Granulated sugar can be replaced with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or a powdered sugar substitute.
Keep in mind flavor and texture may vary slightly.
3. Can I add other flavors to the popcorn?
Yes, get creative! Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate for a fun twist.
4. How can I keep the popcorn from clumping?
Toss gradually and evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the popcorn instead of adding it all at once.
Using a large bowl and gentle folding motions helps keep it light and airy.
5. Can this popcorn be made vegan?
Yes! Replace butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil and ensure any sugar used is vegan-friendly.
The popcorn will remain deliciously crisp and flavorful.
