Crispy Churro Popcorn Recipe Easy Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Snack
A crispy, cinnamon sugar-coated popcorn snack inspired by churros, perfect for movie nights and parties. This easy recipe delivers a sweet, crunchy treat with simple pantry ingredients.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (100g) popcorn kernels
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons (5g) ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 cup (100g) of popcorn kernels and cover with the lid. Shake the pot gently every 20 seconds to prevent burning. When popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops (about 3-4 minutes), remove from heat and transfer popcorn to a large bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
- In a small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter until fully liquid but not browned. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) vanilla extract if using.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons (5g) ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt. Mix well to distribute evenly.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the popcorn while gently stirring or tossing with a spatula. Work quickly to coat all the popcorn so the cinnamon sugar will stick.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter-coated popcorn. Toss gently but thoroughly, making sure every kernel gets that sweet dusting.
- Optional: Spread the coated popcorn evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through to dry out the coating and make it crispier.
- Let the popcorn cool completely before serving or storing to help the coating set and prevent clumping.
Notes
For extra crunch, bake the coated popcorn at 250°F (120°C) for 10 minutes. Use fresh popcorn kernels for best popping results. Be gentle when tossing to avoid breaking the popcorn. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Re-crisp in the oven if needed. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with melted coconut oil or vegan butter alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6
- Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: churro popcorn, cinnamon sugar popcorn, crispy popcorn snack, homemade popcorn, easy snack recipe, cinnamon snack, movie night snack