Popcorn is undoubtedly a widely enjoyed snack. It is easy to make and a great way to satisfy untimely cravings. Most people today use microwave popcorn because it is convenient, but sometimes you might be craving something sweet and want kettle corn. If that is the case and you only have regular microwave popcorn on hand…don’t fret. Keep reading to learn how to make kettle corn with microwave popcorn.
What is kettle corn?
Kettle corn is a type of popcorn usually cooked in a large pot or kettle. Kettle corn is made with both sugar and salt, which gives the popcorn an addictive sweet and salty flavor. The sugar also makes the popcorn a little crunchy. Kettle corn is a popular snack often sold at carnivals and fairs and is equally popular among kids and adults.
Can you make kettle corn using microwave popcorn?
The traditional way of making kettle corn uses a special corn kernel called mushroom flakes. These kernels have a spherical, round, or oblong shape. As a result, when they pop, the shape of the mushroom flakes is round and more tender and gives a unique, rather satisfying, and addictive texture in the mouth.
However, you can use any other corn kernel for making kettle corn. The most commonly used kernels are also called snowflakes or butterfly flakes. They are rather irregular in shape. Now, if you don’t know the anatomy of corn kernels, don’t worry! In my experience, it doesn’t really matter which shape of corn kernels you use.
Even using microwave popcorn works well as well. The only thing you need, in my opinion, is the right pot and ingredients. That’s all that matters!
Different ways of making kettle corn with microwave popcorn
- Using corn kernels: Now, you can regularly prepare kettle corn in a pot using microwave popcorn kernels. Simply add sugar, salt, and corn kernels to a hot pot and let them pop. It is pretty straightforward.
- Using popped corn: Another way of making kettle corn is rather unconventional. You must first pop the popcorn in the microwave and then pour a caramel sauce made from corn syrup, sugar, and butter over it. Mix them until every bit is covered in the sauce.
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Tips to Remember
Although making kettle corn is pretty easy, people often complain the corn kernels don’t pop or burn. So, to ensure you get the best results, keep these points in mind:
- Although I use butter for its buttery flavor, you can also use any vegetable oil. Coconut oil or olive oil works really well.
- Make sure the oil or butter is very hot before you add corn kernels to it. If the oil or butter is not hot enough, the kernels won’t pop and will burn.
- Shaking the pot is crucial. It ensures the flavors are equally distributed among the popcorn. Plus, it also ensures every kernel gets even heat. As a result, all the corn kernels pop without burning.
- Once the popcorn is ready, don’t eat it instantly, or you will burn your tongue. It will be super hot because of the sugar. So let it cool down a bit before you dive in.
Variation ideas
Although kettle corn is known for its sweet flavor, you can experiment with a few extra ingredients to enjoy different flavors. Here are a few fun ideas to try:
- Maple syrup/brown sugar: Although white granulated sugar is the traditional way to make kettle corn, you can also use maple syrup, agave syrup, and light brown sugar. If you like the bold caramel-like sweet flavor, use dark brown sugar.
- Cheese flavor: Adding cheese flavor to these popcorns is also a great choice. Cheesy popcorns are always a hit, and they are very tasteful. So, don’t feel shy to skip the sugar or reduce its quantity to add cheese flavor to it.
- Paprika: Another amazing flavor combination is adding smoked paprika to kettle corn. You can enjoy the sweetness of kettle corn with a hint of spice and heat. For those who love fusion flavors, adding paprika to classic kettle corn is a unique experience.
How to make kettle corn with microwave popcorn
- Preparation time: 2 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 7 minutes
- Servings: 2
Ingredients
- ½ cup microwave popcorn kernels
- ¼ cup butter, unsalted
- ¼ cup white granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Place a heavy-bottomed saucepan or pot over medium heat and add butter.
- Once the butter melts, add about 3 popcorn kernels and cover the pot with a lid.
- Let it heat up until you can hear the popcorn kernels pop.
- Once they do, add the rest of the microwave popcorn kernels into the pot.
- Add white granulated sugar and salt and place the top lid.
- Start shaking the pot for 3 to 5 minutes and place it over the heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Then shake it again and let it rest again.
- Repeat this process a few times until you can hear the popcorn pop.
- Once they start to pop, shake the pot continuously, giving it a 2-minute rest in between until you can hear no more popping sound of the popcorn.
- Once they are done, take them off the heat, remove the lid, and place them instantly in a serving bowl.
- Let them cool down a bit. Enjoy!
How to make kettle corn with microwave popcorn
Ingredients
- ½ cup microwave popcorn kernels
- ¼ cup butter unsalted
- ¼ cup white granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Place a heavy-bottomed saucepan or pot over medium heat and add butter.
- Once the butter melts, add about 3 popcorn kernels and cover the pot with a lid.
- Let it heat up until you can hear the popcorn kernels pop.
- Once they do, add the rest of the microwave popcorn kernels into the pot.
- Add white granulated sugar and salt and place the top lid.
- Start shaking the pot for 3 to 5 minutes and place it over the heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Then shake again and let it rest again.
- Repeat this process a few times until you can hear the popcorns pop.
- Once they start to pop, shake the pot continuously, giving it a 2-minute rest in between until you can hear no more popping sound of the popcorns.
- Once they are done, take them off the heat, remove the lid and place them instantly in a serving bowl.
- Let them cool down a bit. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, you’ll find clear answers to common queries about turning your microwave popcorn into delicious kettle corn.
What are the steps to create my own kettle corn using microwave popcorn?
To make your own kettle corn, first pop microwave popcorn according to the package instructions. Then, in a large pot, melt butter and mix in sugar and salt over medium heat. Add the popped popcorn to the pot and stir until the kernels are evenly coated with the sweet and salty mixture. Heat until it’s well combined.
How can I make kettle corn like Orville Redenbacher’s at home?
For a taste similar to Orville Redenbacher’s, start with their natural microwave popcorn. After popping it, combine equal parts of fine sugar and salt with just enough oil to coat the popcorn without making it soggy. Spread it on a baking sheet and briefly bake it at a low temperature to achieve a light, crispy texture.
How can I pop all the kernels when making microwave kettle corn?
Ensure you pop all kernels by following the instructions on the microwave popcorn bag carefully, typically stopping the microwave when popping slows to 1-2 seconds between pops. To prevent burning, don’t aim for every single kernel to pop; it’s normal for a few to remain unpopped.
What’s the best recipe for homemade kettle corn seasoning?
A simple but effective kettle corn seasoning is a mix of fine sugar and salt. The key is to use a 3:1 ratio of sugar to salt, allowing the sweetness to prevail while the salt enhances the flavor. A dash of cinnamon or vanilla can add a unique twist.
How can I make microwave kettle corn without using sugar?
You can substitute sugar with alternatives like honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness or use sugar-free sweeteners that can withstand heat. Drizzle your chosen sweetener over the hot popcorn and then sprinkle salt before tossing to evenly coat the kernels.