Air-Fried Caramel Popcorn: A Quick, Easy Treat

If you're a fan of caramel popcorn, you'll be glad to know that you can easily make it in an air fryer. This method not only reduces the mess and time required but also gives you a healthier snack with less fat. Here's a simple recipe to get you started. First, prepare your caramel sauce by mixing butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and baking soda in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave this mixture, stirring every 30 seconds, until it bubbles. Next, pour the bubbling sauce over your popcorn and toss to coat evenly. Spread the coated popcorn on an air fryer tray and cook at 250°F for 5 minutes. Then, use tongs to flip the popcorn and air fry for another 5 to 8 minutes. And that's it! You now have delicious, crunchy caramel popcorn to enjoy.

Choosing the right air fryer

Air fryers are a great way to cook food to crispy perfection with minimal oil usage. They are versatile and can be used to reheat leftovers, cook pizza, toast grilled cheese, and even roast a whole chicken!

There are a few factors to consider when choosing the right air fryer:

• Price: Air fryers can range in price from $30 to $400, but most tend to hover around $100, offering a high-performing option without breaking the bank.
• Capacity: Most air fryers are designed for single servings or small batches. If you plan to cook for a crowd or larger quantities, look for models with a capacity of 5 quarts or more.
• Advanced features: Some air fryers have additional settings like dehydration, baking, and rotisserie cooking, combining multiple appliances into one. Presets for specific foods and indicators for when to check on your food can also be helpful.
• Warranty: Air fryer warranties can vary from 60 days to three years. Longer warranties can provide added confidence in your purchase.
• Basket vs. Oven Style: Conventional air fryers have a basket or drawer for placing food. Newer models feature a mesh tray or rack, resembling a countertop toaster oven. Basket-style air fryers are more basic and affordable but take up more counter space. Oven-style air fryers offer more functions and are ideal if you want to cook larger items like a whole chicken.
• Size: If you're cooking for one or two people, a 2- to 3-quart air fryer is sufficient. Add an extra quart of capacity for each additional person. For cooking for five people, a 5-quart model is recommended.
• Brand: Popular air fryer brands include Ninja, Instant, Philips, Cosori, and Cuisinart, offering a range of features and price points.

Selecting the perfect popcorn kernels

Know Your Kernel Types:

There are various types of popcorn kernels available, such as yellow, white, or hybrid varieties. Yellow kernels are the most common and have a buttery colour when popped. White kernels are larger and produce fluffy, snow-white popcorn. Hybrid kernels combine the characteristics of both types.

Check the Quality:

Look for kernels that are dry, clean, and free of debris. Old or stale kernels may not pop properly, so check the expiration date and buy from a store with good product turnover to ensure freshness.

Size Matters:

Choose kernels that are appropriately sized for your air fryer. Larger kernels may require more space to pop fully, so consider the capacity of your air fryer basket when selecting your kernels.

Popping Power:

Select kernels with a high popping rate. This information may be available on the packaging, indicating the percentage of kernels that are expected to pop. A higher popping rate means more popped kernels and less waste.

Storage Matters:

Popcorn kernels should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness. Buying from a store that stores kernels properly can increase the likelihood of successful popping.

By following these tips, you'll be able to select the perfect popcorn kernels for your air fryer caramel popcorn. Now, you're ready to move on to the next step of making this delicious treat!

Preparing the air fryer

Firstly, it is crucial to clean your air fryer thoroughly. Remove any loose debris or leftover food particles to ensure a sanitary cooking environment. This step not only maintains the quality of your popcorn but also prevents any unwanted flavours from affecting your caramel popcorn.

The next step is preheating your air fryer. Set the temperature to its highest setting, typically around 400°F (200°C), and let it preheat for a few minutes. This step is essential as it helps the kernels pop more evenly, resulting in a higher popping rate and reducing the chances of burning.

If you're using a Ninja Foodi, as recommended by some sources, you can add a tablespoon of oil, such as canola or any oil of your choice, to the inner pot along with a couple of corn kernels. Turn on the high sear/sauté function and cover with a glass lid or a silicone cover. Once these kernels pop, you can add the remaining kernels and stir to coat them with oil.

For other air fryers, simply set the temperature to the highest setting and let it preheat. Then, add the desired amount of kernels, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer to ensure even popping. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven results.

During the popping process, remember to shake the air fryer basket occasionally to prevent the kernels from burning. Keep an eye on the popping, and once it slows down significantly, it's time to stop the air fryer and remove the basket.

Now your air fryer is prepared and ready for making delicious caramel popcorn!

Popping the popcorn

Ingredients:

• Popcorn kernels (plain/unpopped)
• Oil or butter (olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, ghee, etc.)
• Aluminum foil

Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures that the kernels pop evenly and consistently.
• Prepare the kernels: Take a bowl and add the desired amount of popcorn kernels. Pour in a little oil or melted butter and mix well to ensure that the kernels are evenly coated. You can also add seasonings like garlic salt, cinnamon, or other favourite toppings at this stage if you want flavoured popcorn.
• Spread the kernels in the air fryer basket: Line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil and spread out the kernels in a single layer. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this can lead to uneven popping.
• Air fry the popcorn: Close the air fryer basket and air fry for 7-8 minutes at 400°F (200°C). You will start to hear the kernels pop after about 3 minutes.
• Shake the basket occasionally: During the cooking process, shake the air fryer basket every few minutes to ensure even popping and to prevent burning. Be careful not to open the basket too much, or the popcorn might pop out.
• Let the remaining kernels pop: Once the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and let it sit for a minute or two. This allows any remaining kernels to pop.
• Season the popcorn (optional): Transfer the popped popcorn to a bowl and add your favourite seasonings or toppings, such as salt, butter, nutritional yeast, or cinnamon sugar. You can also get creative and experiment with different combinations, such as garlic parmesan or spicy chili powder.

Tips for Popping the Popcorn:

• Use fresh, high-quality kernels for better popping and a fresher taste.
• Preheating the air fryer is essential for even popping.
• Spread the kernels in a single layer to ensure even popping and to prevent overcrowding.
• Shake the basket occasionally to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning.
• Monitor the cooking process, especially towards the end, to avoid burning the popcorn.
• If you have any unpopped kernels, try to remove them before adding seasonings or toppings.

Seasoning the popcorn

Seasoning your caramel popcorn is the final step in making this delicious snack. The seasoning you choose will infuse with the caramel coating, creating an explosion of flavours.

Firstly, you can make a simple salted caramel popcorn by sprinkling a pinch of salt over the freshly made batch. This classic seasoning is a great way to enhance the caramel flavour without overwhelming it.

If you're feeling more adventurous, you can experiment with different spices like paprika, garlic powder, or chilli powder. These spices will give your caramel popcorn an unexpected kick, making it a more savoury snack.

For those with a sweet tooth, there are several sweet options to try. Drizzling honey, maple syrup, or caramel sauce over the popcorn will create an indulgent, sticky treat. Alternatively, you can make a cinnamon sugar mixture by combining melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon, and then drizzling it over the popcorn. This option is perfect for those who want a sweet and spicy kick.

If you're feeling creative, you can even make a salted caramel sauce by melting butter and stirring in sugar, then adding salt, baking soda, and vanilla extract. This sauce can then be poured over the popcorn for an extra indulgent treat.

Finally, don't forget that you can always stick to the classic combination of salt and butter for a movie-style experience.

Frequently asked questions