Air-Fryer Popcorn: Can You Make This Snack?

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance, and many people wonder if they can be used to make popcorn. The short answer is yes, you can cook plain popcorn kernels and microwave popcorn in an air fryer. However, there are a few things to consider. Air fryers and microwaves work differently, so the cooking time and temperature settings for popcorn will vary. Microwave popcorn bags are designed for microwaves, so the packaging and instructions are tailored to that method. Putting the entire bag into an air fryer could pose a fire hazard and lead to unpopped kernels. To make popcorn in an air fryer, you can pour the kernels into a bowl, add oil, stir, and then place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) 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.

Popping a bag of popcorn in an air fryer

First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Then, take a bag of microwave popcorn, cut it open, and pour the kernels into a bowl. Do not place the paper bag into the air fryer as it may catch fire. Instead, line the air fryer basket with aluminium foil, crimping the sides to secure it.

Add a small amount of oil to the bowl, such as coconut or avocado oil, and stir to evenly coat the kernels. Place the kernels in a single layer at the bottom of the air fryer basket. Transfer the basket to the air fryer and cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally. When the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and carefully remove the basket.

Finally, pour your freshly cooked popcorn into a bowl and season as desired. You can add cinnamon sugar, ranch seasoning, melted chocolate, caramel sauce, or any other toppings you like. And that's it! You now have a delicious and healthy snack that tastes just like movie theatre popcorn.

Some expert tips for making air fryer popcorn include seasoning the popcorn after popping to avoid burning and using pre-seasoned kernels for extra flavour. Cover the air fryer basket with aluminium foil to prevent the kernels from touching the heating element, and preheat your air fryer before adding the popcorn for more even cooking. It's also important to place the kernels in a single layer and work in small batches to avoid unpopped kernels.

Pros and cons of air fryer vs microwave popcorn

Air fryers and microwaves are two of the most popular kitchen appliances, but which is better for making popcorn? Here are the pros and cons of each.

Air Fryer Popcorn

Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, creating a crispy exterior and evenly cooked interior. They are a healthier option than deep frying, as they require minimal oil. Air fryers are versatile and can be used for frying, roasting, grilling, and baking. They offer precise temperature control, allowing for low-temperature baking and high-temperature frying.

Pros

• Healthier than traditional frying methods
• Versatile with multiple cooking functions
• Crispy and evenly cooked results
• Precise temperature control
• Easy to clean due to removable, non-stick baskets

Cons

• Longer cooking times
• Smaller cooking capacity
• More expensive, especially with advanced features
• May be more time-consuming to make popcorn
• Requires some preparation and cannot simply cook a full bag of microwave popcorn

Microwave Popcorn

Microwaves use electromagnetic waves to heat and cook food, making them ideal for quick meals and reheating. They are convenient, fast, and can cook a variety of dishes. Microwaves are generally more affordable, come in various sizes and models with different features, and are suitable for small kitchens.

Pros

• Quick and convenient
• Affordable and space-efficient
• Various sizes and models with different features
• Faster cooking, especially for heating and reheating
• Can cook frozen food effectively

Cons

• May result in uneven cooking
• Limited ability to achieve crispy textures
• Some models can be bulky
• May be more challenging to clean due to food splatters and spills
• Requires microwave-safe containers

Both air fryers and microwaves have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to making popcorn. If you prioritise healthier meals with a crispy finish, an air fryer may be the better choice. On the other hand, if speed and convenience are your top priorities, a microwave could be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs and preferences.

How to make popcorn in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great alternative to traditional methods of making popcorn, such as on the stove or in the microwave. Using an air fryer is healthier, as it requires less oil, and often yields better results, with more uniformly heated kernels.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Some sources suggest preheating for 5 minutes, while others recommend leaving it to heat up for longer.

Step 2: Prepare the Popcorn Kernels

Place 2 tablespoons of your preferred high-temperature oil (such as coconut, avocado, or olive oil) in a bowl. Add a quarter or half a cup of popcorn kernels to the bowl and stir to coat the kernels in oil. You can also add seasonings at this stage, but be sure to use seasonings that won't burn at high temperatures, such as garlic powder or dried herbs.

Step 3: Transfer Kernels to the Air Fryer Basket

Line the air fryer basket with aluminium foil, which will make cleanup easier. Place the kernels in a single layer at the bottom of the basket.

Step 4: Cook the Popcorn

Cook the popcorn for 8-15 minutes. You should start to hear the kernels popping after a few minutes. Once the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and carefully remove the basket.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Let the popcorn cool to room temperature, then add your desired seasonings. You can also add toppings such as cinnamon sugar, ranch seasoning, melted chocolate, or caramel sauce. Serve and enjoy!

Tips

• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
• Place the kernels in a single layer to avoid unpopped kernels.
• Shake the basket occasionally while cooking to ensure even popping.
• Be cautious when removing the basket, as it will be very hot.
• Use a high-quality brand of popcorn kernels for the best results.
• Store any leftover popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature.

While it is technically possible to cook microwave popcorn bags in an air fryer, it is not recommended due to potential fire hazards and the risk of unpopped kernels. The bags are designed specifically for microwaves and may not have enough room to expand in an air fryer. Instead, it is best to use plain kernels and follow the steps outlined above.

Tips for making air fryer popcorn

If you're looking for a healthier, easy-to-make snack, air fryer popcorn is a great option. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect popcorn in your air fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer: Before adding the popcorn kernels, preheat your air fryer to around 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your air fryer is hot enough to cook the kernels evenly.
• Prepare the kernels: Place the kernels in a single layer at the bottom of the air fryer basket. You can line the basket with aluminium foil to make cleanup easier, but ensure it doesn't cover the entire bottom or block the heating element. Using a high-quality brand of kernels, such as Orville Redenbacher's or Angie's Boom Chicka Pop, can also improve your results.
• Oil: While you can pop the kernels without oil, adding a couple of tablespoons of a high-temperature oil like coconut oil, avocado oil, or olive oil will give your popcorn a crispier texture and help seasonings stick. Coat the kernels with oil before placing them in the air fryer.
• Seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings to find your favourite flavour! You can add seasonings before or after popping the kernels. If you season before, choose seasonings that won't burn at high temperatures, such as garlic powder or dried herbs.
• Cook time: Set the cooking time for 8 to 15 minutes. Keep in mind that the exact time may vary depending on your air fryer model. Start shaking the basket occasionally once you hear the kernels start to pop.
• Safety: Use caution when removing the basket from the air fryer, as it will be very hot. It's best to use oven mitts and cover the basket with a large saucepan lid to prevent hot kernels from escaping.
• Storage: Store any leftover popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh.

Storing your popcorn

Storing Unpopped Kernels:

The key to storing unpopped kernels is to retain moisture, as this is what creates the "pop." Choose high-quality kernels, preferably bought in bulk from a co-op market, as these are likely to be fresher. Store the kernels in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or Tupperware, in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. The optimal temperature range is between 50 and 74 degrees Fahrenheit. A kitchen pantry or cabinet usually works well. If the kernels come in a plastic or paper bag, transfer them to an airtight container to maximize freshness. Properly stored kernels can last from six months up to two years or more.

Storing Popped Kernels:

Once your popcorn is popped, store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent staleness. Keep the container in a cool, dry place like a pantry or cupboard. Avoid humid environments or direct sunlight, as these can make the popcorn soggy. Do not refrigerate or freeze unpopped kernels, as the cold, dry environment can cause them to lose moisture and become unpoppable. However, freezing popped popcorn can help it stay hydrated and crunchy. You can freeze popped popcorn for up to three months and reheat it in the microwave or oven to restore its crispness.

Storing Seasoned Popcorn:

If you've seasoned your popcorn, it's best to consume it immediately. However, if you have leftovers, avoid storing them for too long, as the seasoning can make the popcorn soggy.

Reviving Stale Popcorn:

If your popcorn becomes stale, you can revive it by heating it in an oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for about five minutes. Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet and heat it until it crisps up. You can also reheat frozen popcorn this way.

Frequently asked questions