Popcorn – the perfect snack for movie nights, sporting events, or just a quick pick-me-up. But let’s be real, plain old popcorn can get a little boring after a while. That’s where the magic of buttered popcorn comes in! When you add a delicious and creative twist to your popcorn, it elevates the snacking experience to a whole new level. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering popcorn butter recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic flavors like sea salt and cinnamon sugar, to bold and spicy options like sriracha and buffalo butter, there’s something for everyone in this list. And the best part? You can easily customize these recipes to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. So grab a bowl of popcorn, get creative with some delicious butters, and enjoy the perfect snack experience!
Classic Buttered Popcorn with Sea Salt
Experience the simplicity of a timeless snack with this straightforward recipe for classic buttered popcorn sprinkled with sea salt. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a quick treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot over medium-high heat or use an air popper.
2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
3. Once the butter is melted, remove from heat and stir in the sea salt until dissolved.
4. Pour the butter mixture evenly over the popped popcorn while it’s still warm.
5. Toss the popcorn to coat with the butter and sea salt mixture.
Cooking Time:
– Popping time: 2-3 minutes
– Total preparation time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Butter Popcorn
Elevate your popcorn game with this flavorful recipe that combines the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan cheese with the richness of butter. Perfect for a cozy movie night or as a snack to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6-8 cups popped popcorn
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds or until fragrant.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Pour the garlic-parmesan mixture evenly over the popped popcorn, tossing to coat.
6. Spread the coated popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the butter is melted and the cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Butter Popcorn!
Cinnamon Sugar Butter Popcorn
Sweet and savory, this Cinnamon Sugar Butter Popcorn recipe is a perfect combination of flavors!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 cups popcorn kernels
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to your preferred method (stovetop, microwave, or air popper). Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar to the melted butter. Stir until combined.
4. Pour the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the popped popcorn kernels.
5. Toss the popcorn gently to coat all kernels with the sweet and spicy mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including popping time)
Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Butter Popcorn!
Spicy Sriracha Butter Popcorn
Get ready to elevate your popcorn game with this spicy and savory treat! This recipe combines the classic flavors of buttery popcorn with a kick of sriracha for a bold and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and sriracha sauce until well combined.
3. Pour the butter-sriracha mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until the kernels are evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including popping time)
Truffle Butter Popcorn with Rosemary
Experience the perfect combination of savory and aromatic flavors with this unique recipe for Truffle Butter Popcorn with Rosemary. This indulgent treat is sure to become a favorite among popcorn enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons truffle butter or truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, truffle butter or oil, Parmesan cheese, rosemary, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pop the popcorn kernels in the oven or using an air popper. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Pour the truffle butter mixture over the popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (popcorn preparation) + 2-3 minutes (melted butter coating)
Honey Butter Popcorn with Almonds
Sweet and savory, this Honey Butter Popcorn with Almonds recipe is a perfect treat for movie nights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Optional: Additional toppings (e.g., sea salt, cinnamon, or chocolate chips)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Heat over low heat until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the honey-butter mixture over the popped popcorn, stirring until coated evenly.
4. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the popcorn and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cocoa Butter Popcorn with Marshmallows
Elevate your snack game with this rich and creamy treat that combines the sweetness of marshmallows with the deep flavor of cocoa butter.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons cocoa butter
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and cocoa butter over medium heat.
3. Add the popped popcorn to the melted butter mixture and stir until coated.
4. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they’re evenly distributed.
5. Sprinkle with salt to balance the sweetness.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brown Butter Popcorn with Pecans
Elevate your movie night or party snack game with this rich and nutty brown butter popcorn recipe, featuring crunchy pecans for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker according to package instructions.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the browned butter over the popped popcorn. Toss until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the popcorn and toss again to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve warm, or let cool completely for a crunchy snack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including prep time)
Maple Butter Popcorn with Bacon Bits
This recipe combines the classic flavors of popcorn, maple syrup, and butter with a smoky twist from crispy bacon bits. The result is a sweet and savory snack that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine until popped.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the maple syrup and whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the butter mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until coated.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon bits over the popcorn and toss again to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Butter Popcorn
Lemon Herb Butter Popcorn Recipe
Experience the bright and citrusy flavor of lemon combined with the earthiness of herbs in this unique popcorn recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
Instructions:
1. Preheat a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the popcorn kernels and cover the pan with a lid.
3. Once the kernels start popping, shake the pan constantly for about 2-3 minutes or until the popping slows down.
4. Remove from heat and let stand for 30 seconds to allow any remaining kernels to pop.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, lemon juice, parsley, and dill until well combined.
6. Pour the flavored butter mixture over the popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Caramel Butter Popcorn with Sea Salt
Transform plain popcorn into a decadent treat with this simple recipe that combines the richness of caramel butter with the crunch of sea salt. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
3. Add corn syrup and sugar; stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour caramel mixture over popcorn in a large bowl; toss until coated.
7. Sprinkle sea salt evenly over the popcorn.
8. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Butter Popcorn with Dark Chocolate Drizzle
Elevate your movie night or party snack game with this decadent and addictive treat! Rich coconut butter and dark chocolate come together to create a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup coconut butter
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 6 cups popped popcorn
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together coconut butter, unsalted butter, and sea salt until smooth.
3. Add popped popcorn to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the coconut butter mixture.
4. Spread the popcorn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Drizzle melted chocolate over the popcorn and sprinkle with chopped nuts or shredded coconut (if using).
7. Allow to cool and harden completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Peanut Butter Popcorn with Pretzels
This recipe combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and popcorn with the crunch of pretzels, creating a delicious snack that’s perfect for movie nights or quick indulgences.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup pretzel rods, broken into pieces
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine until fluffy.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the peanut butter and melted butter until smooth.
3. Add the pretzel pieces to the peanut butter mixture and stir until coated.
4. Pour the peanut butter-pretzel mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Buffalo Butter Popcorn with Blue Cheese Crumble
Experience the bold flavors of Buffalo wings and blue cheese crumbles on a sweet and crunchy popcorn treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker until popped.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, hot sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Pour the butter mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle the blue cheese crumbles over the popcorn and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Smoked Paprika Butter Popcorn
Elevate your movie night with this sweet and smoky popcorn recipe that combines the richness of butter, the depth of smoked paprika, and the crunch of fresh kernels.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, chives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a brown paper bag in the microwave according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, smoked paprika, salt, and sugar until well combined.
4. Pour the melted butter mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
5. Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or chopped herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chai Spiced Butter Popcorn
Elevate your snack game with this unique and aromatic popcorn recipe, infused with the warm spices of chai. This addictive treat is perfect for a cozy movie night or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried cranberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Pour in heavy cream and whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the chai-spiced butter mixture evenly over the popped popcorn.
5. Toss to coat, ensuring even coverage.
6. Serve immediately, or let cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes melting butter and coating popcorn)
White Chocolate Butter Popcorn with Cranberries
This recipe combines the creamy richness of white chocolate with the crunch of buttery popcorn and the tartness of dried cranberries. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a unique snack to share at parties.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker until fluffy.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the white chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Pour the white chocolate mixture over the popped popcorn and toss to coat.
5. Fold in the dried cranberries.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Matcha Butter Popcorn with Sesame Seeds
Elevate your movie night or snack time with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the brightness of matcha green tea with the nuttiness of sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker until they’re evenly popped.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the matcha powder and whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the matcha butter mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until the kernels are well coated.
4. Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the popcorn and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Browned Butter and Sage Popcorn
Elevate your movie nights with this rich and savory popcorn recipe that combines the nutty flavor of browned butter with the earthy taste of sage. Perfect for a cozy evening in!
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
Instructions:
1. Preheat your stove to medium-high heat.
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until you have about 3 cups of popped corn.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Continue cooking the butter until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped sage leaves, salt, and black pepper.
6. Pour the browned butter mixture over the popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Toasted Coconut Butter Popcorn with Macadamia Nuts
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and salty treat that combines the creaminess of coconut butter, the crunch of macadamia nuts, and the classic fun of popcorn.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon coconut butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 tablespoon toasted shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, melt the coconut oil and mix with the coconut butter until smooth.
3. Add the salt and stir until combined.
4. Pour the coconut mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until the kernels are evenly coated.
5. Spread the popcorn mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the coconut is lightly toasted.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped macadamia nuts.
8. If using, sprinkle toasted shredded coconut over the top.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the world of popcorn flavors like never before! This article features 20 delicious and unique recipes that combine butter with a variety of ingredients to create irresistible treats. From classic combinations like sea salt and garlic parmesan, to sweet and spicy options like truffle rosemary and sriracha, there’s something for everyone. Discover the perfect blend of flavors with honey almonds, cocoa marshmallows, brown pecans, maple bacon, and many more. Whether you’re a fan of savory, sweet, or tangy, these popcorn butter recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds!