Easy Homemade Popcorn
Popcorn is more than just a movie theater treat! It’s a fun, hands-on cooking adventure for you and your kids! In this easy homemade popcorn recipe, your little chef will discover how popcorn kernels transform from corn on the cob into a crunchy, delicious treat. With simple ingredients and endless seasoning possibilities, this kid-friendly recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen while sneaking in a little science. Whether you're making a classic buttery batch or experimenting with fun flavors like cinnamon, paprika, or garlic powder, this popcorn recipe is the perfect way to get kids excited about cooking!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 2 tbsp oil coconut oil (refined or unrefined) or canola oil
- salt to taste
- herbs and seasonings of choice rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, cayenne, everything seasoning, dill, chili powder, etc.
Instructions
- Adults do: Demonstrate taking corn kernels off the cob. This can be tricky depending on the individual cob. Get it started by twisting the cob as if you were trying to wring water out of it. Once loosened, show how to use your thumbs (or fingers) to remove the kernels.
- Kids do: Using their thumbs (or any creative means), take the kernels off the cob and put them into a large bowl. This part takes patience, but it's a great sensory activity!
- Adults do: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in the bottom of a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop in a single kernel—if it starts to bubble around the edges, you’re ready to go.
- Adults do: Add 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels and immediately cover with a lid.
- ⚠️ Caution: If the oil is too hot, kernels may pop instantly—even before you get the lid on! Make sure all children are watching from a safe distance.
- Adults do: Gently shimmy the saucepan/pot every 15 seconds to keep the kernels moving and ensure even popping.
- Adults do: Once the popping slows down to about 2-3 seconds between pops, remove the saucepan/pot from the heat. Let it sit with the lid on for another 30 seconds to catch any last pops.
- Adults do: Carefully transfer the freshly popped corn into the large bowl.
- Kids do: Choose and sprinkle on their favorite seasonings. Get creative!
- Adults do: Toss one more time to mix everything together.
- Everyone: Grab a handful, enjoy, and celebrate your homemade popcorn masterpiece!