Making Popcorn With Butter Using An Air Fryer

Air fryer popcorn is a quick and easy snack that can be made in under 10 minutes. It is a healthier alternative to microwave popcorn or store-bought popcorn, as it requires less oil and has fewer calories. While it is possible to make popcorn in an air fryer, it is not the best or easiest method, and there is a risk of damaging your air fryer or creating a fire hazard. However, with some trial and error, you can make delicious, fluffy, and crunchy popcorn in an air fryer.

How to make popcorn in an air fryer with butter

Making popcorn in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare this popular snack. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious, buttery popcorn in an air fryer.

Ingredients:

• Popcorn kernels
• Butter (melted)
• Salt
• Flavourings of your choice (optional)

Method:

Start by lining the base of the air fryer basket with tin foil, allowing a gap of around half an inch around the sides. This will help contain the mess and make cleaning up easier.

Next, add the popcorn kernels to the basket, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer. This is important to ensure even popping. You can add a little oil or butter to the kernels before adding them to the air fryer for extra flavour and crispness, but this is optional.

Close the air fryer basket and set the temperature to around 400°F. Preheating the air fryer is important to ensure the kernels pop evenly and consistently. After a few minutes, you'll start to hear the kernels pop.

Air fry the popcorn for around 7-8 minutes. Once the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and let it sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop.

Finally, remove the air fryer basket and transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Add melted butter and toss to combine. You can also add salt and any other desired flavourings, such as garlic salt, cinnamon sugar, or parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips:

• It is recommended to cook the popcorn in small batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can lead to uneven results and even damage the air fryer.
• Avoid adding salt or other seasonings to the unpopped kernels before cooking, as this can interfere with the air frying process.
• If you want to add butter or oil, mix it with the kernels before placing them in the air fryer.
• For easy storage, keep leftover popcorn in a sealable container or ziplock bag at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to a week.

Popcorn kernels and butter quantities

The amount of popcorn kernels you use will depend on the size of your air fryer. It's important to ensure that the kernels are spread out in a single layer to ensure even popping. A quarter cup of kernels is a good starting point, and you can increase the quantity depending on the size of your air fryer, but be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket as this can cause burning.

When it comes to butter, it's best to use clarified butter or another neutral oil such as avocado oil, coconut oil, olive oil, or ghee. Regular butter is not recommended as it will burn and smoke during the cooking process. You can add the butter after popping the kernels by melting it and drizzling it over the popcorn, or you can mix it with the kernels before adding them to the air fryer for extra buttery flavour. For a quarter cup of kernels, use two tablespoons of melted butter and one tablespoon of oil.

Air fryer temperature and timing

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

First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This is a crucial step as it ensures the kernels start popping quickly and helps prevent burning. While preheating, you can toss the kernels with a small amount of oil or melted butter in a bowl. This will help improve the flavour and texture of the popcorn. You can skip this step if you prefer your popcorn oil-free, but it is not recommended to use regular butter as it will burn and smoke. Instead, use oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, coconut oil, olive oil, or vegetable oil.

Next, line the air fryer basket with aluminium foil. This will make cleaning up easier and prevent kernels from getting stuck in the air circulator or heating element. However, be sure to only cover the base of the basket and not the entire basket, as the vents/air holes are necessary for popping the kernels. Spread the kernels in a single layer on top of the foil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can lead to uneven popping and even damage the air fryer.

Now, place the air fryer basket into the air fryer and set the temperature to 400°F. You will start to hear the kernels pop after about 3 minutes. Let the popcorn cook for a total of 7 to 9 minutes. Once the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and let it sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop.

Finally, remove the air fryer basket and transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl. You can now add your desired seasonings and toppings, such as salt, butter, nutritional yeast, cinnamon sugar, or garlic powder. Toss to combine, and serve immediately.

Popcorn seasoning ideas

Popcorn is a versatile snack that can be seasoned in countless ways to suit different tastes and moods. Here are some seasoning ideas for your homemade popcorn:

Savory Seasonings

• Salt and Butter: The classic combination of salt and butter is a favourite for many people as it's similar to movie theatre popcorn.
• Garlic and Parmesan: Try seasoning your popcorn with garlic powder and grated parmesan cheese for a flavorful and aromatic combination.
• Ranch Seasoning: Sprinkle some ranch seasoning over your popcorn for a zesty and flavorful option.
• Spicy Chili Powder: For those who like a bit of heat, season your popcorn with spicy chili powder.
• Nutritional Yeast: If you're looking for a healthier alternative to cheese, sprinkle some nutritional yeast over your popcorn. It has a cheesy flavour and is packed with nutrients.
• Italian Garlic Seasoning: A blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and optionally, Parmesan cheese.
• Taco Seasoning: A savoury and flavorful option that's sure to impress your taste buds.
• Dorito Seasoning: A blend of nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
• Coconut Curry Seasoning: A unique blend of unsweetened shredded coconut, curry powder, and salt.

Sweet Seasonings

• Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar over your popcorn for a simple yet tasty way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Gingerbread Seasoning: A blend of powdered sugar, cinnamon, ground ginger, and optionally, ground cloves for a festive sweet treat.
• Mexican Chocolate Seasoning: A blend of unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar, cinnamon, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet and indulgent option.
• Kettle Corn: Spritz the popcorn with cooking spray and toss with a granulated sweetener (such as sugar) and salt.

Other Creative Seasoning Ideas

• White Cheddar: Spritz the popcorn with cooking spray and toss with popcorn cheese flavouring or nutritional yeast.
• Truffle Oil: Drizzle truffle oil over your popcorn for a luxurious treat.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle hot sauce over the popcorn for a spicy kick.
• M&Ms, Butter & Salt: A sweet and savoury combination.
• Peanut Butter and Corn Syrup: A messy but delicious combination.
• Salt and Vinegar: Sprinkle some powdered vinegar over your popcorn for a tangy twist.
• Korean Seasoning: Mix melted butter with sesame oil, garlic salt, ground ginger, and Korean pepper flakes.
• Old Bay Seasoning: A unique blend of herbs and spices that pairs well with popcorn.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: Add some everything bagel spice mix to your popcorn for a savoury and crunchy treat.
• Caramel: Drizzle some caramel sauce over your popcorn for a sweet and indulgent option.

Storing air fryer popcorn

Firstly, it is important to let the popcorn cool completely before storing it. This will prevent excess moisture from forming and making the popcorn stale. Once the popcorn has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. You can use a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or a glass jar with a rubber seal.

The next step is to store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing the popcorn in a humid area, as moisture can cause it to become soggy. If you have already seasoned your popcorn, it is best to store it separately from plain popcorn to prevent the toppings from becoming soggy and losing their flavour.

Popcorn stored in an airtight container can be kept at room temperature and will remain fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. However, freezing is not recommended as it can make the popcorn soft and soggy.

When you are ready to enjoy your stored popcorn, simply remove it from the container and let it come to room temperature before eating. If you find that it has become slightly stale, you can try reheating it in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its freshness.

Frequently asked questions