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Sweet spicy popcorn is my favorite fix for movie nights and quick gatherings when I want big flavor with very little fuss. The blend of honey and smoked spices transforms plain popcorn into something guests always ask about and it could not be faster to pull together.
I whipped this up for a block party once and ended up scribbling the recipe for three different neighbors on napkins. It is now my go to for casual get togethers.
Ingredients
- Popped popcorn: makes the crunchy, satisfying base so use good quality kernels for the best pop and flavor
- Unsalted butter: provides a rich backdrop and lets you control the salt level
- Honey: brings the signature sweetness and helps the spices stick so look for a fragrant clover or wildflower variety
- Smoked paprika: gives gorgeous color and a mellow smokiness opt for Spanish if available
- Cayenne pepper: adds just the right warming heat
- Kosher salt: sharpens all the tastes and balances the sweetness
- Garlic powder: creates savoriness and subtle depth so make sure yours is fresh for the fullest punch
- For the tastiest popcorn possible choose freshly popped corn and taste your honey to ensure it is vibrant and not too bland
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Popcorn:
- Transfer freshly popped popcorn into a large mixing bowl This keeps the popcorn from breaking and ensures everything gets coated evenly
- Make the Spiced Honey Butter:
- Melt the butter and honey together over low heat or in a microwave safe bowl then stir until fully smooth and combined Next whisk in the smoked paprika cayenne pepper kosher salt and garlic powder until no lumps remain
- Coat the Popcorn:
- Drizzle the warm spice mixture evenly across the popcorn in the bowl Act swiftly and use a large spoon or spatula to stir and toss the popcorn from bottom to top aiming to coat each kernel before the honey butter cools
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Sweet smoked paprika is my favorite here as it adds deep dimension without overwhelming heat I remember my niece asking if we could make it every week after her first bite
Storage Tips
Make sure the popcorn is completely cool before transferring it to an airtight container Room temperature storage works best and the popcorn will stay crisp for up to three days If it feels sticky just leave the lid off for twenty minutes before snacking and it will refresh
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have smoked paprika swap in regular sweet paprika for a milder version or try chili powder for more robust spice Agave or maple syrup can pinch hit for honey just use the same amount and expect a slightly different sweetness If using salted butter cut back on the added salt accordingly
Serving Suggestions
Pour the popcorn into a big bowl right after mixing for a party or break it out in small cups for individual servings A sprinkle of extra smoked paprika on top right before serving is a fun twist I have also paired this as a crunchy salad topper for extra pizzazz
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Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent soggy popcorn when making this spice mix?
Coat the popcorn while the honey butter is warm, then let it cool completely before storage. Always use an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- → Can I adjust the spice level for kids or mild preferences?
Absolutely. Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor, or increase for extra heat if desired.
- → What is the best way to evenly coat the popcorn?
Drizzle the spiced honey butter over the popcorn in a large mixing bowl and stir rapidly to distribute the mixture before it cools.
- → How long can I store the finished popcorn?
Once cooled, store the popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep it crisp.
- → Can I use flavored popcorn for this mix?
Plain, unsalted popcorn works best, but lightly salted or buttered popcorn can also be used for extra flavor.