Kettle corn, the classic snack that’s equal parts sweet and salty. But why settle for just one flavor when you can have them all? In this article, we’re counting down our top 18 sweet kettle corn recipes that are irresistibly crunchy and guaranteed to satisfy your snack cravings.
From classic flavors like cinnamon sugar and caramel drizzled, to creative twists like pumpkin spice and matcha green tea, there’s a sweet kettle corn recipe on this list for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to munch on at the movies or a unique snack to serve at your next gathering, we’ve got you covered.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top 18 sweet kettle corn recipes and get ready to indulge in some serious snacking fun!
Classic Sweet and Salty Kettle Corn
Classic Sweet and Salty Kettle Corn Recipe
This recipe brings back childhood memories of walking through the fairground, munching on freshly popped kettle corn. Our take on this classic snack combines the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a commercial popcorn popper until you have about 6 cups of popped corn.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugars dissolve.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the hot sugar mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until the corn is evenly coated.
6. Cook the kettle corn in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cinnamon Sugar Kettle Corn
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that combines the classic flavors of kettle corn with a sweet and spicy twist. Cinnamon sugar adds a warm, comforting flavor to this addictive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until the popping slows down.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon.
3. Melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Add the vegetable oil, salt, and sugar-cinnamon mixture. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Pour the melted butter mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
5. Spread the kettle corn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caramel Drizzled Kettle Corn
Sweet and salty, this Caramel Drizzled Kettle Corn recipe is a game-changer for snack time. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying the perfect blend of flavors in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Pop the popcorn kernels in a large bowl until popped.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, salt, and baking soda. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn and toss until coated.
6. Spread the kettle corn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Enjoy your delicious Caramel Drizzled Kettle Corn!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Kettle Corn
Elevate your snack game with this decadent recipe that combines the classic flavors of kettle corn with the richness of chocolate and peanut butter. The result is a sweet and salty treat that’s perfect for movie nights, parties, or just satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 1 ounce high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 250°F.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter until smooth.
4. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl (in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval).
6. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the popcorn mixture and sprinkle with vanilla extract.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Kettle Corn
Add a kick to your snack game with this spicy twist on classic kettle corn! This sweet and savory treat is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just as a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until popped.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and Sriracha sauce.
3. Pour the sugar-Sriracha mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until well coated.
4. Add the vegetable oil to the popcorn and toss until evenly distributed.
5. Sprinkle salt to taste, then serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on your popping method)
Maple Bacon Kettle Corn
Elevate your snack game with this unique fusion of sweet and savory flavors. Crispy kettle corn is infused with the richness of maple syrup and smoky goodness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a deep fryer according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup and vegetable oil. Heat over medium heat until warm and well combined.
3. Pour the maple syrup mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the kettle corn and toss until the bacon is evenly distributed.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Bean Kettle Corn
Elevate your popcorn game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of vanilla beans with the classic flavors of kettle corn. This unique treat is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a fun snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popping oil (such as canola or grapeseed)
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 400°F.
2. Add the popcorn kernels and cover the pot with a lid. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the popping slows down.
3. Remove from heat and sprinkle salt, sugar, and vanilla bean over the popcorn. Toss to combine.
4. Add the water to the pot and stir to release any remaining steam.
5. Return the pot to medium-high heat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the kettle corn is golden brown and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Kettle Corn
Pumpkin Spice Kettle Corn Recipe
Warm up with a sweet and spicy twist on classic kettle corn! This Pumpkin Spice Kettle Corn recipe combines the comfort of pumpkin with the excitement of fall spices.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– Pumpkin pie spice (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in corn syrup and water.
4. Pour the warm caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
5. Spread the kettle corn out on a baking sheet to cool and dry completely.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (includes popping time)
Optional: Garnish with additional pumpkin pie spice for an extra boost of flavor!
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Kettle Corn!
S’mores Inspired Kettle Corn
S’mores Inspired Kettle Corn Recipe: A Twist on a Classic Treat!
This sweet and salty recipe combines the magic of s’mores with the addictive flavor of kettle corn. Perfect for movie nights, camping trips, or just a quick snack, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– 1/4 cup marshmallow creme
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the sugar mixture to the popped popcorn, stirring until well combined.
4. Sprinkle baking soda and salt over the popcorn mixture, stirring again.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Pour the melted chocolate over the popcorn mixture, stirring until coated.
7. Drizzle marshmallow creme over the kettle corn, spreading evenly.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Lemon Zest Kettle Corn
Elevate your popcorn game with a burst of citrusy flavor! This recipe combines the classic comfort of kettle corn with the uplifting zest of lemons.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 lemon, zested (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add the vegetable oil and lemon zest to the popped popcorn and stir until well coated.
4. Pour the sugar mixture over the popcorn and toss until evenly distributed.
5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the popcorn is crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your tangy and sweet Lemon Zest Kettle Corn!
Coconut Lime Kettle Corn
Elevate your snack game with this unique fusion of coconut and lime flavors. This kettle corn recipe combines the classic caramelized sweetness with the brightness of citrus and the creaminess of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine until popped.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the coconut oil, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the lime zest and juice to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pour the coconut-lime mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until the kernels are evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the kettle corn and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Kettle Corn
Elevate your snack game with the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea and the crunch of kettle corn.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 tablespoon matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your kettle or pot with at least 3 inches of oil to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in small batches, stirring frequently.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together matcha powder, salt, and both types of sugar.
4. Once the popcorn is popped, remove from heat and pour into a large bowl.
5. Drizzle the matcha-sugar mixture evenly over the popcorn and toss until well coated.
Cooking Time: 3-5 minutes for popping, plus an additional minute to mix in the matcha flavor.
Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Kettle Corn
Elevate your snack game with this irresistible combination of dark chocolate and sea salt on a bed of crispy kettle corn. This recipe is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a commercial popcorn popper until fluffy.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the popped popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle the salt to taste and toss to combine.
4. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Pour the melted chocolate over the popcorn mixture and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
6. Toss until the kernels are evenly coated with chocolate and sea salt.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including popping time)
Birthday Cake Kettle Corn
Celebrate any occasion with this sweet and salty treat that combines the classic flavors of birthday cake with the fun of kettle corn.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon yellow food coloring (optional)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until you have about 6 cups.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 240°F.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and yellow food coloring (if using).
4. Pour the hot sugar mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
5. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let cool completely.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Kettle Corn
This sweet and savory popcorn recipe combines the flavors of peppermint, mocha, and caramel to create a unique and delicious treat. Perfect for a movie night or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
– 6 cups popped popcorn
Instructions:
1. Preheat the kettle corn mixture to medium-high heat.
2. Combine the light corn syrup, water, butter, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and coffee powder in a small saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and slowly pour the hot sugar into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
5. Pour the kettle corn mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
6. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes if desired.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Pie Kettle Corn
Transform the classic combination of sweet and salty into a one-of-a-kind snack with Apple Pie Kettle Corn. This recipe combines the warm spices of apple pie with the addictive crunch of kettle corn.
Ingredients:
• 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; stir until combined.
3. Pour the melted butter mixture evenly over the popped popcorn and toss to coat.
4. Drizzle the maple syrup and vanilla extract over the popcorn and toss again.
5. Fold in the chopped apples.
6. Spread the Apple Pie Kettle Corn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (popcorn popping time), plus 30-40 minutes for cooling
Toasted Almond Kettle Corn
This sweet and savory recipe combines the classic flavors of kettle corn with the added crunch of toasted almonds, creating a delightful snack for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup toasted almonds, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until popped.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
4. Add the chopped toasted almonds to the popcorn mixture and stir until combined.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Melt the vegetable oil in a separate pan or skillet. Pour the kettle corn mixture into the melted oil and stir until well coated.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the kettle corn is crispy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Toasted Almond Kettle Corn!
Raspberry White Chocolate Kettle Corn
Raspberry White Chocolate Kettle Corn: A sweet and tangy twist on traditional kettle corn, featuring the flavors of fresh raspberries and white chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup dried raspberries, crushed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine until popped.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the vegetable oil, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Pour the sugar mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until the kernels are evenly coated.
4. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Stir the melted white chocolate into the popcorn mixture until combined.
6. Add the crushed raspberries and vanilla extract to the mixture and stir until well combined.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of crunchy and sweet flavors with these 18 irresistible kettle corn recipes! From classic sweet and salty to creative twists like cinnamon sugar, caramel drizzled, and chocolate peanut butter, there’s something for everyone. Try spicy sriracha, maple bacon, or vanilla bean for a unique twist. Or go for festive flavors like pumpkin spice, s’mores inspired, or peppermint mocha. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for crunchy, sweet, and utterly delicious kettle corn.
