Name: Cinnamon Popcorn Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/3 cup kernels); 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the comforting warmth of cinnamon with the addictively crunchy goodness of popcorn, this Cinnamon Popcorn recipe is about to make movie night–and every snack break–absolutely unforgettable. A glossy, buttery, and fragrant cinnamon-sugar coating hugs each fluffy kernel, transforming simple popcorn into a sweet, cinnamon-laced treat that’s impossible to resist. Whether you serve it for a family gathering, tuck it into lunchboxes, or snack straight from the bowl, Cinnamon Popcorn delivers a delicious punch of nostalgia and coziness every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with just a handful of pantry staples, but each ingredient earns its place in the spotlight. Every component plays a role in elevating the texture, flavor, and eye-catching appeal of your Cinnamon Popcorn–so don’t be tempted to skip or substitute!

Popcorn Kernels: For the freshest crunch, pop your own kernels rather than using pre-popped or bagged popcorn.
Unsalted Butter: This adds luscious richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture glide over every kernel.
Granulated Sugar: Essential for that classic sweetness and glossy finish in each bite.
Ground Cinnamon: The star of the show, adding a familiar warmth and a hint of spice.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors and gives your popcorn a fragrant boost.
Salt: A pinch is all it takes to balance the sweetness and let the cinnamon truly shine.

How to Make Cinnamon Popcorn

Step 1: Pop the Popcorn

Start by popping your kernels to yield about 8 cups of plain popcorn. If you have an air popper or prefer stovetop popping, either method works perfectly–just steer clear of buttered or flavored varieties. Place the fresh, hot popcorn in a very large mixing bowl so there’s plenty of space to toss everything together later.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Syrup

In a small saucepan set over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of salt. Keep stirring steadily until the sugar is dissolved, the mixture is smooth, and you notice gentle bubbles forming–this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. The irresistible aroma will let you know it’s ready!

Step 3: Coat the Popcorn

Immediately pour the warm cinnamon syrup over your bowl of popcorn. Grab a spatula or wooden spoon and toss, toss, toss! Take your time to make sure every fluffy piece is coated with that sweet-spiced magic. Even coverage will guarantee a uniform flavor in every bite of your Cinnamon Popcorn.

Step 4: Bake Until Crisp

Spread the cinnamon-sugar popcorn evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Slide it into your preheated 300°F (150°C) oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, giving the popcorn a good stir about halfway through. Baking helps set the coating for an ultra-crisp texture and means no sticky fingers during snacking!

Step 5: Cool Completely

Once baked, let your Cinnamon Popcorn cool completely on the baking sheet. The coating will firm up as it cools, turning each cluster into a sweet, crunchy delight. Now, it’s ready for serving, gifting, or sneaking a handful the moment no one is looking!

How to Serve Cinnamon Popcorn

Garnishes

Add a playful finishing touch by dusting extra ground cinnamon or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. For a decadent twist, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled popcorn. You can also toss in a handful of toasted nuts or shredded coconut for added flavor and crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cinnamon Popcorn with tangy apple slices, a cup of hot cider, or even some sharp cheddar cheese for a sweet-and-savory snack spread. On movie nights, offer alongside fresh fruit or dark chocolate squares for a balanced, snack-able lineup everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, spoon Cinnamon Popcorn into colorful cupcake liners for single-serve treats, or package in clear cellophane bags with a pretty ribbon for a homemade gift. Fill mason jars for lunchbox surprises or layer with other flavored popcorns for an eye-catching, multi-flavored popcorn mix at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To preserve the addictive crunch, store leftover Cinnamon Popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh and crisp for up to three days, making it a great make-ahead treat for busy weeks or parties.

Freezing

Though Cinnamon Popcorn is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if you absolutely have to. Pack it in a freezer-safe, airtight bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw uncovered at room temperature for optimal crispiness.

Reheating

If your stored popcorn softens a bit, revive it by spreading on a baking sheet and popping it in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Let it cool completely before serving again, and you’ll have that just-baked crispness back in no time.

FAQs

Can I use microwave or store-bought popcorn?

Absolutely! Just be sure to choose plain or lightly salted popcorn, avoiding anything already buttered or flavored so the cinnamon coating can really stand out.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap in your favorite plant-based butter and double-check that your sugar is vegan-friendly. Everything else is naturally vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy.

Can I make Cinnamon Popcorn without baking it?

You can–just know the texture will be a bit stickier and the coating less set. Baking creates that irresistible crunch, but for a quicker version, simply toss and cool before serving.

How can I add some heat to the recipe?

Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon mixture before pouring over the popcorn. It gives a gentle spicy-sweet contrast that’s totally irresistible.

Is Cinnamon Popcorn kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The sweet cinnamon flavor is usually a kid favorite, but you can always adjust the amount of cinnamon to suit milder palates. It’s a fun snack for family movie nights and lunchboxes alike.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to turn ordinary popcorn into something extraordinary, give this Cinnamon Popcorn a try–it may just become your new snack obsession! Bring it to your next gathering or enjoy a quiet bowl all to yourself; either way, you’ll be wishing you’d made a double batch!

Cinnamon Popcorn Recipe

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4.9 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible blend of cinnamon, sugar, and butter with this easy-to-make Cinnamon Popcorn recipe. Perfect for cozy movie nights or as a sweet snack any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale

Popcorn:

8 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/3 cup kernels)

Cinnamon Mixture:

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix popcorn: Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl.
Prepare cinnamon mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook until smooth and slightly bubbling.
Coat popcorn: Pour the cinnamon mixture over the popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
Bake: Spread the coated popcorn on the baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Cool and serve: Let the popcorn cool completely before serving.