Description
Peanut Butter Popcorn is a crunchy, sweet-salty snack that combines freshly popped kernels with a rich, creamy peanut butter coating. Perfect for movie nights or gatherings, this treat is easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup popcorn kernels
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, or sea salt
Instructions
- Pop the popcorn using an air popper, stovetop, or microwave. If using stovetop, add 1–2 tablespoons oil to a large pot over medium heat, add kernels, cover, and shake occasionally until popping slows. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and remove unpopped kernels.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt peanut butter and unsalted butter together, stirring gently for about 2–3 minutes until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the popcorn and gently fold with a spatula until evenly coated.
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread coated popcorn on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
- After baking, let the popcorn cool for a few minutes. Add optional toppings such as chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of sea salt. Break into clusters once fully cooled and serve.
Notes
- Use air-popped or stovetop popcorn for best texture—avoid microwave bags with additives.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
- Double the recipe for larger groups or parties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: peanut butter popcorn, caramel popcorn, snack recipe, baked popcorn, movie night snack