BBQ Popcorn at a Glance
Nothing says summer quite like a backyard cookout, with the aroma of smoky, sizzling barbecue filling the air, cool refreshments in hand, and the laughter of your favorite people echoing through the yard.
Well, that’s exactly what this BBQ popcorn will remind you of — it’s bold, savory, a little sweet, and oh-so-addicting. But unlike actual barbecue, this popcorn is completely vegan, so even non-meat eaters can join in on the fun.
So what are you waiting for? Fire up your stove, grab your Popper, and let’s get popping!
BBQ Popcorn Ingredients
- ½ cup kernels
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
BBQ Popcorn Directions
Step 1: Make BBQ Popcorn Seasoning
Mix BBQ popcorn seasoning ingredients together in a small bowl, then set aside.
Step 2: Heat
Set your stove to medium heat and allow your Popper to preheat for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 3: Pour Oil
Pour oil into the Popper.
Step 4: Add Kernels
Throw 2 to 3 kernels into the pot. Add in the rest once the first kernel pops, then cover the Popper.
Step 5: Pop
Turn the Popper’s crank clockwise as the kernels pop to keep them from staying in one place and burning.
Step 6: Remove
When popping slows to 1-2 seconds between pops, remove the Popper from the burner and pour the popcorn into a bowl.
Step 7: Combine
Sprinkle the barbecue popcorn seasoning over the popcorn and give the bowl a good shake to distribute the flavoring evenly.
Step 8: Serve
Serve your BBQ popcorn and enjoy!
More BBQ Popcorn Tips
- For a tangier BBQ flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice powder or half a teaspoon of citric acid to your seasoning.
- Seasoning not sticking? Spraying a light layer of oil or butter over your popcorn will do the trick.
- Make it smokier. Double the smoked paprika or add a small pinch of chipotle powder for a deeper, campfire-style smoke flavor.
- Dial down the heat. Skip the cayenne entirely and reduce the chili powder to ½ teaspoon for a mild, kid-friendly version that still has plenty of BBQ flavor.
- Storing leftover popcorn. Keep any extra BBQ popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature and eat within 3 days. If it gets a little chewy, spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 250°F for 5 minutes to bring back the crunch.
Your New Summer Flavorite
This BBQ popcorn is built for summer, but honestly, it works just as well for a fall game day or a random Tuesday craving. If you don't have a Popper yet, it's the easiest way to make fresh stovetop popcorn at home. Grab yours now with our kernels and plain coconut oil for your base.
Looking for more flavors to try next? Browse our popcorn recipes for inspiration.
