Air Fryer Popcorn

Air Fryer Popcorn is about to transform movie night!  Yep, that’s exactly right — you can absolutely make popcorn in the air fryer, and it’s also incredibly simple and tasty.

Do you enjoy your air fryer as much as I do? I’m obsessed with it — I use it to whip up everything from Air Fryer Breakfast Tarts to Air Fryer Sesame Chicken to Air Fryer Fried Ice Cream. And it’s also perfect for whipping up healthier snack options.

Fries, BBQ wings, and spring rolls all come out crispy, crunchy, and delicious. Plus, as I’ve just learned, I can even use it to prepare Air Fryer Popcorn.

Why You’ll Enjoy Making Popcorn in Your Air Fryer

Here are the advantages of cooking popcorn in an air fryer:

• Healthier: Unlike microwave popcorn, which is often packed with butter, or standard stovetop popcorn cooked in a pool of oil, air fryer popcorn lets you choose how much — or how little — oil, butter, and salt you want.
• More time-efficient: Air fryer popcorn comes together faster than the usual stovetop approach. You don’t need to hover over the pot, and you won’t have to worry about burning the popcorn. The air fryer handles everything.
• Quick cleanup: After making popcorn in an air fryer, cleanup is a breeze. You don’t have to wash a pot, and the air fryer basket can typically go right into the dishwasher.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Besides your air fryer, you only need a few simple items to make this popcorn.

• Popcorn kernels: Pick whichever type you like most.
• Oil: Any cooking oil works, including canola, safflower, vegetable, or avocado oil.
• Salt: I prefer kosher salt or sea salt since there aren’t any extra additives. Add as much or as little as you like.

You might also want aluminum foil to cover the basket — if your air fryer basket has bigger openings, the kernels will slip through. Placing foil in the basket solves that issue. Just line the bottom portion of the basket with foil. Keep the sides uncovered so air and heat can move around freely.

Which Popcorn Kernels Work Best?

When it comes to making popcorn, the quality of the kernels you choose can truly impact the finished result. Here are some of the best options for air fryer popcorn kernels:

Yellow popcorn kernels: Yellow kernels are the most common variety and are usually easy to locate at grocery stores. They deliver a mild, slightly nutty flavor and are ideal for classic popcorn.

White popcorn kernels: White kernels are smaller and denser compared with yellow ones. They also tend to taste a bit sweeter and usually expand into shorter, fluffier pieces.

Mushroom popcorn kernels: Mushroom kernels are larger and rounder than other types. They pop into a ball form with a little flat top. Expect a more substantial texture, and they’re great for caramelizing or adding different coatings and flavors.

In general, choose fresh kernels that look plump and intact. You may also want to buy organic popcorn kernels to help ensure they’re not treated with harmful chemicals or pesticides. Ultimately, the best kernels for you will depend on your own preferences and the style of popcorn you want to create.

How To Make It

Preparing popcorn in an air fryer is remarkably easy. Here’s what to do:

1. Coat the popcorn kernels with a bit of oil, then add them to the air fryer basket.
2. Air fry until the popping slows down to about one pop every few seconds.
3. Turn off the air fryer and let it rest for a minute before you take out the basket. This gives the remaining kernels a chance to pop.
4. Remove the basket from the air fryer carefully, then move the popcorn into a bowl.
5. Season with salt to taste and toss to evenly coat.

Tips for Better Results

Use these tips to make the best air fryer popcorn:

• Choose high-quality popcorn kernels. This helps ensure even popping and excellent flavor.
• Measure your oil correctly. Too much oil can make your popcorn feel oily, while too little can cause it to scorch.
• Shake the basket often. This supports even popping and helps prevent burning.
• Watch for the popping to slow. That’s your cue that the popcorn is ready.
• Mix in your preferred seasonings. When the popcorn is done, you can add favorites like butter, cinnamon, or garlic powder.
• Keep your air fryer popcorn in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
• Air fryer popcorn is a fantastic way to enjoy a snack that’s both healthier and more enjoyable. With an air fryer, you can create popcorn quickly and with minimal effort. You can also tailor the flavor with your go-to seasonings to make a snack that’s just right for you. So why not try air fryer popcorn today? We’re confident you’ll love it!

Flavor variations

There are lots of ways to season your freshly popped popcorn. Here are a few fan favorites:

• Butter: The classic popcorn flavor is simple butter and salt. Combine melted butter with a touch of olive oil and pour it into a spritzer bottle. Lightly misting helps the coating spread evenly.
• Kettle corn: Create sweet-and-salty kettle corn by tossing fresh popcorn with granulated sugar and salt.
• Spicy: Season the popcorn with chili powder or another spicy blend, such as Japanese shichimi togarashi.
• Cinnamon sugar: Toss freshly popped popcorn with melted unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar.

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