Strawberry Popcorn is a fun, fruity twist on classic popcorn, featuring a sweet strawberry coating that’s perfect for snacking, parties, or gifting. With its vibrant pink hue and irresistible crunch, it’s a treat that’s just as beautiful as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s sweet, crunchy, and bursting with strawberry flavor.
- Perfect for themed parties like Valentine’s Day, baby showers, or birthdays.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Great for gifting or movie night snacks.
- You can customize the flavor or color to suit any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Popped popcorn (freshly popped or microwave)
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter
- Water
- Strawberry extract or strawberry gelatin mix
- Light corn syrup (optional for extra gloss and crunch)
- Red or pink food coloring (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the popcorn:
Pop the popcorn using your preferred method. Spread it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and remove any unpopped kernels. - Make the strawberry coating:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, water, and strawberry extract (or gelatin mix). If using corn syrup and food coloring, add them now. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a simmer and the sugar is dissolved. - Coat the popcorn:
Pour the hot strawberry syrup over the popcorn. Quickly and gently toss to evenly coat all the kernels. - Set the popcorn:
Let the popcorn cool completely at room temperature for 12 hours. For an extra crisp finish, you can bake it at 250°F (120°C) for 1520 minutes, stirring once halfway through. - Serve or store:
Once dry and crispy, break apart any clumps and serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 cups
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Cool time: 12 hours
Total time: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Use freeze-dried strawberries: Blend into powder and toss with buttered popcorn for a natural, fruity finish.
- Add white chocolate drizzle: Melt and drizzle over cooled popcorn for added decadence.
- Swap the flavor: Use raspberry, cherry, or cotton candy extracts for a fun twist.
- Use colored candy melts: Instead of syrup, melt pink or red candy melts and mix with popcorn for a quicker version.
Storage/reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as it can affect the texture.
- Reheating: No reheating necessary—serve at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe?
Yes, just be sure to choose a plain or lightly salted variety and remove all unpopped kernels.
What can I use instead of strawberry extract?
You can use strawberry gelatin mix or freeze-dried strawberry powder for flavor.
Can I make this without food coloring?
Yes, it will still taste delicious but won’t have the vibrant pink color.
How do I make it extra crunchy?
Bake the coated popcorn at a low temperature for 1520 minutes after coating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if all your ingredients (especially flavorings) are certified gluten-free.
Can I use air-popped popcorn?
Absolutely! It’s a healthier option and works great in this recipe.
How long does strawberry popcorn last?
It stays fresh for about 5 days in a sealed container at room temperature.
Can I use other flavors?
Definitely! Try other extracts like cherry, vanilla, or cotton candy.
Is this good for gifting?
Yes, it’s perfect in clear treat bags or decorative tins for holidays and events.
Can kids help make this?
Yes, but they should avoid handling the hot syrup. Let them help toss or decorate the cooled popcorn.
Conclusion
Strawberry Popcorn is the perfect blend of sweet and crunchy with a fruity flair that makes it stand out from traditional snacks. Whether you’re prepping for a party, making a fun homemade gift, or just craving something unique, this recipe delivers a pop of color and flavor in every bite.
Description
Strawberry Popcorn is a sweet, crunchy snack made with freshly popped popcorn coated in a vibrant strawberry glaze. It’s perfect for parties, holidays, movie nights, or anytime you’re craving a fruity twist on classic caramel corn. Kids love it, and it’s super easy to make!
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Prep the popcorn:
Pop your popcorn using an air popper or stovetop. Remove any unpopped kernels and place the popcorn in a large mixing bowl. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. -
Make the strawberry coating:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, corn syrup, salt, and strawberry gelatin. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. -
Simmer and flavor:
Let it boil for 4 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Add food coloring if desired for extra color. -
Coat the popcorn:
Quickly pour the strawberry mixture over the popcorn. Gently toss with a spatula until the popcorn is evenly coated. -
Bake:
Spread the coated popcorn evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even coating.
Notes
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For an extra strawberry kick, drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with freeze-dried strawberry pieces.
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Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
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You can use microwave popcorn as a shortcut—just make sure it’s plain or lightly salted.
