Get ready to transform your ordinary movie night into an extraordinary flavor adventure with this irresistible Spicy Sweet Seasoned Kettle Corn! Imagine a perfect blend of caramelized sweetness, a hint of warmth from cayenne, and a subtle cinnamon twist that will make your taste buds dance. This isn't just popcorn - it's a gourmet snack experience that combines the classic comfort of kettle corn with a bold, unexpected kick that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Popcorn kernels
- Vegetable oil
- Brown sugar
- Salt
- Cayenne pepper
- Ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and equipment: a large heavy-bottomed pot with a lid, measuring cups, wooden spoon, and serving bowl.
- Place the large pot on medium-high heat and add vegetable oil, ensuring an even coating across the bottom of the pot.
- Add 3 popcorn kernels to the oil and cover the pot, waiting for these test kernels to pop which indicates the oil is at the correct temperature.
- Once test kernels pop, add remaining popcorn kernels, creating an even layer across the pot's bottom.
- Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the kernels before covering the pot with the lid.
- Shake the pot gently and continuously to prevent burning, allowing kernels to pop and sugar to caramelize.
- When popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, remove from heat immediately.
- Quickly transfer popped corn to a large bowl to stop cooking process.
- Immediately sprinkle salt, cayenne pepper, and ground cinnamon over the hot kettle corn, tossing to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Allow to cool for 3-5 minutes, allowing sugar to harden and create a crisp coating.
- Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, spicy, and crunchy snack.
Tips
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- The three-kernel test is crucial - they'll tell you when the oil is perfectly heated.
- Continuous gentle shaking is key to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.
- Remove from heat the moment popping slows down to avoid scorching.
- Season immediately after popping while the sugar is still hot and sticky.
- Let the kettle corn cool slightly to allow the sugar coating to crisp up.
- For extra heat, adjust cayenne pepper to your personal spice tolerance.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain crispness.
- For best results, use fresh popcorn kernels and make sure your spices are fresh.
- Experiment with the sugar-to-spice ratio to find your perfect balance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
