This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
If you’ve ever had fresh kettle corn at a fair, you already know, it’s addictive! The perfect mix of sweet and salty, with a crispy sugar coating that gives each bite a little crunch. Now, you don’t have to wait for a festival to get your fix because making sweet and salty popcorn at home is quick, easy, and way cheaper than buying a bag.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- This homemade sweet and salty popcorn comes together in minutes with just four ingredients.
- It’s quick and easy to make.
- Once you have the ingredients, you’ll be able to make this delicious kettle corn many times!
Ingredients for kettle corn
- Vegetable oil – Helps the kernels pop evenly while preventing them from burning.
- Popcorn kernels – The base of the recipe; use fresh, high-quality kernels for the best results.
- Granulated sugar – Adds the signature caramelized crunch that makes kettle corn unique.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the popcorn.
How to make sweet and salty popcorn
Start by heating the oil in a large pot over medium heat with three test kernels. Once they pop, add the rest of the popcorn kernels and quickly stir in sugar and salt.
Cover the pot and shake frequently while the kernels pop to prevent burning. This is important because the sugar can quickly burn the popcorn if it isn’t shaken.
When the popping slows down, remove the pot from heat and immediately transfer the popcorn to a bowl to cool. Watch out for any kernels that didn’t pop, they may be stuck to the popcorn.
Enjoy fresh and warm for the ultimate sweet and salty snack!
How do I store leftover kettle corn?
Store leftover sweet and salty popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to keep it crispy.
If you love this recipe, you may also enjoy
Sweet and salty popcorn: FAQs
Yes! To make kettle corn you can use coconut oil, canola oil, vegetable oil even avocado oil. Any oil with a high smoke point. Avoid olive oil since it has a lower smoke point and can burn easily.
Make sure to shake the pot frequently while the popcorn pops. This keeps the sugar from sitting on the bottom too long, preventing scorching.
If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can skip the sugar, but it won’t have that classic kettle corn taste. Try a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup after popping for a natural sweetness.
Sweet and Salty Popcorn (Kettle Corn)
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- ¼ cup popcorn kernels
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Add the oil and 3 popcorn kernels into a large pot that has a lid. Turn the heat to medium. Make sure the pot is covered.
- Once you hear all 3 kernels pop, add the rest of the kernels. Quickly stir in the sugar and salt. Cover and shake the pot a couple of times. Once the kernels start popping, keep shaking the pot frequently. Shaking will help make sure the popcorn doesn’t burn. This is very important!
- When the popping slows down remove from the heat then quickly transfer the popcorn to a bowl.
- Let cool for a few minutes. Eat and enjoy! Watch out for any kernels that may haven’t popped while eating, they might be stuck to the popcorn due to the sugar.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
