Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn
A quick and comforting sweet snack, this Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn combines warm cinnamon, sweet sugar, and buttery popcorn for a crunchy treat that’s ready in just 10 minutes. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
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.
