Air Fryer Popcorn: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance, and if you have one, you may be wondering if you can use it to make popcorn. The short answer is yes, you can cook both plain popcorn kernels and microwave popcorn in an air fryer. However, there are a few things you should consider before trying this.

Air fryers work differently from microwaves, using hot air to cook food instead of radiation. This means that the cooking time and temperature settings for popcorn will be different, and some foods cannot be prepared in both appliances. For example, microwave popcorn bags are designed specifically for microwaves, so you cannot simply put the entire bag into an air fryer.

Additionally, air fryers are not closed systems, and the fan and vents are located above the basket. This allows for air circulation but also means that small, lightweight foods like popcorn kernels can easily be blown all over the place and become lodged inside the heating element, causing a fire hazard. For this reason, some sources do not recommend making popcorn in an air fryer, as it can be more difficult and may result in poorer outcomes compared to using a stove or microwave.

However, if you want to try making popcorn in your air fryer, there are a few simple tricks to follow. First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Then, if using microwave popcorn, cut open the bag and pour the kernels into a bowl, as the bag should not be placed directly into the air fryer. Line the air fryer basket with aluminium foil and add a little oil to the bowl, stirring to coat the kernels. Place the kernels in a single layer at the bottom of the basket and cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally. Once the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and carefully remove the basket. You can then season your popcorn as desired.

Popcorn kernels and cooking oil

To make popcorn in an air fryer, start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Then, in a small bowl, mix together the kernels and oil until the kernels are well coated. Next, line the base of the air fryer basket with tin foil, allowing around half an inch of foil around the sides. Place the oiled kernels into the foil-lined basket in a single layer.

Now, place the air fryer basket into the air fryer and cook for 8-9 minutes. Once the timer goes off, keep the basket in place for 20-30 seconds to allow any extra kernels to continue popping. Finally, remove the basket from the air fryer and transfer the popcorn into a large mixing bowl. You can then add any desired seasonings or toppings, such as salt, butter, olive oil, cinnamon sugar, or ranch seasoning.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an essential step in making popcorn. The air fryer needs to be hot so that the kernels can start popping quickly, otherwise, you may end up with burnt kernels. If your air fryer doesn't have a preheat function, simply turn it on and let it run for five minutes before you start cooking.

The ideal temperature to preheat your air fryer to is 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your popcorn gets cooked evenly. Popcorn generally needs to be cooked at a high temperature, and letting the air fryer get to temperature first will give you the best results.

Once the air fryer is preheated, you can add the kernels and cook them for 3-6 minutes, or until the popping begins to slow down. It's important to keep the air fryer basket closed during this time to maintain the temperature and ensure even cooking.

When the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and carefully remove the basket. Be cautious as the basket will be very hot. Using oven mitts is recommended to protect your hands.

Line the air fryer basket with foil

To line the air fryer basket with foil, first, cut and shape the foil to fit the basket. Leave around half an inch of foil around the sides of the basket. Place the foil inside the basket, ensuring that it covers the base and sides. Then, add the kernels to the basket, ensuring they are in a single layer.

It is not recommended to use foil when making popcorn in an air fryer as it can cause kernels to get stuck and burn. If you do decide to use foil, be sure to place it in a way that prevents it from blowing upwards during cooking.

Cook time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for making popcorn in an air fryer can vary depending on the model of your air fryer and the desired level of doneness. However, here is a general guide:

Preheat your air fryer to around 400°F (200°C). It is important to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning the kernels.

Once the air fryer is preheated, add the popcorn kernels and oil (if using) to the basket. Spread the kernels in a single layer to ensure even cooking and place the basket into the air fryer.

Cook the popcorn for around 3-5 minutes, or until you notice the popping has slowed down significantly. It is important to keep an eye on the popcorn as it can burn easily.

If there are still unpopped kernels, continue cooking in small batches for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until most of the kernels have popped.

It is worth noting that making popcorn in an air fryer can be unpredictable and may take some trial and error to get the desired results. It is recommended to use small batches and adjust the cooking time as needed. Additionally, always be cautious when removing the basket from the air fryer, as it will be very hot.

Seasonings and toppings

• Salt: A little salt during the popping time will give your popcorn a head start on the seasoning. You can also sprinkle salt over your popcorn after cooking.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated (not shredded) parmesan cheese will add a cheesy flavour to your popcorn.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over your popcorn for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Ranch: A tangy and herby flavour will be imparted by sprinkling some ranch seasoning over your popcorn.
• Melted Butter: Drizzle or spray your popcorn with melted butter for a classic, buttery taste.
• Butter Substitute: If you don't want to use butter, there are butter-flavoured substitutes that you can spray on your popcorn.
• Melted Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over your popcorn for an indulgent treat, or toss in a handful of chocolate chips.
• Garlic Powder: Add some garlic powder to your popcorn for a savoury flavour.
• Dried Herbs: Toss your popcorn with dried herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic, savoury twist.
• White Cheddar Seasoning: Toss your popcorn with a premade white cheddar popcorn seasoning for a cheesy, sharp flavour.
• Black Pepper: Add some spice to your popcorn with a sprinkling of black pepper.
• Granulated Sugar: A sprinkle of granulated sugar will give your popcorn a sweet crunch.
• Nuts: Toss your popcorn with nuts for a trail mix effect.
• Chocolate Chips: Add some chocolate chips to your popcorn for a sweet and indulgent treat.
• Candies: Toss in some candies for a fun and colourful addition to your popcorn.
• Shredded Coconut: For a tropical twist, add some shredded coconut to your popcorn.
• Granola: Toss your popcorn with granola for a crunchy, sweet treat.
• Nutritional Yeast: Nutritional yeast will give your popcorn a savoury, cheesy flavour.

When adding seasonings and toppings to your air fryer popcorn, it's important to remember to season your popcorn after cooking to avoid burning. You can also put pre-seasoned popcorn kernels into your air fryer, but be sure to use seasonings that won't burn at high temperatures.

Frequently asked questions