Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Strawberry Popcorn is a fun, sweet, and crunchy treat that brings together the irresistible flavor of strawberry with the light crunch of popcorn. Coated in a sweet, strawberry-flavored glaze, this popcorn makes for a perfect snack for movie nights, parties, or just when you’re craving something unique and sweet. It’s simple to make and the vibrant pink color adds a festive touch to any occasion.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
popcorn kernels (popped)
strawberry gelatin (such as Jell-O)
unsalted butter
sugar
corn syrup
vanilla extract
baking soda
directions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Pop the popcorn kernels and place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the sugar, corn syrup, and strawberry gelatin. Stir the mixture occasionally until it begins to boil.
- Once the mixture is boiling, let it cook for 3-5 minutes without stirring. Then, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up.
- Immediately pour the strawberry glaze over the popped popcorn, tossing gently to coat each kernel evenly.
- Spread the coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure the popcorn is evenly coated and the glaze sets.
- Remove the popcorn from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Once cooled, break the popcorn into pieces and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 cups of strawberry popcorn.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Variations
- Add a drizzle of white or milk chocolate over the cooled popcorn for extra sweetness and richness.
- Mix in some freeze-dried strawberries for an added fruity texture and flavor.
- For a fun twist, sprinkle some rainbow-colored sprinkles on top before baking.
storage/reheating
Store Strawberry Popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep it fresh and crunchy, avoid storing it in a humid place.
FAQs
Can I use microwave popcorn?
Yes, you can use microwave popcorn, but be sure to choose plain popcorn without butter or salt for best results.
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruity flavors like raspberry, cherry, or even tropical fruit for a different twist.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, Strawberry Popcorn can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container.
Why do I need to stir every 15 minutes while baking?
Stirring every 15 minutes helps ensure that the strawberry glaze evenly coats the popcorn and prevents burning.
Can I freeze the popcorn?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Strawberry Popcorn for up to a month, but the texture may be slightly affected when thawed.
Conclusion
Strawberry Popcorn is a sweet and festive snack that’s sure to brighten up any occasion. With its crunchy texture and strawberry flavor, this treat is not only visually appealing but also deliciously addictive. It’s a fun and easy recipe to whip up for parties, celebrations, or just as a treat for yourself!
PrintStrawberry Popcorn
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Popcorn is a sweet and tangy treat, with crunchy popcorn coated in a smooth strawberry-flavored glaze, perfect for snacking or as a fun party treat.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unpopped popcorn kernels
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Red food coloring (optional, for brighter color)
Instructions
- Pop the popcorn kernels using your preferred method (stovetop, microwave, or popcorn machine). Set the popcorn aside in a large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the strawberry gelatin, granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- If using, add a few drops of red food coloring to the strawberry glaze for a brighter color.
- Pour the strawberry glaze evenly over the popped popcorn, tossing gently to coat the popcorn with the mixture. Make sure all of the popcorn is covered.
- Transfer the coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
- Once baked, remove the popcorn from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.
- Store any leftover strawberry popcorn in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Notes
- Be sure to stir the popcorn every 15 minutes while baking to avoid the coating from becoming sticky or burning.
- If you’d like a tangier flavor, you can increase the amount of strawberry gelatin slightly, or add a pinch of citric acid.
- This recipe can be made with different flavored gelatin for variety, such as raspberry or cherry.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *