How to Make Homemade Chicago Style Popcorn

Everyone knows you can’t leave the Windy City without stopping by for Chicago style popcorn! It’s a blend of sweet caramel and savory cheese popcorn — two bold flavors that make it an unforgettable treat. 

Today, we want to pay homage to this iconic snack by showing you how to make your own Chicago mix popcorn at home with help from your Popper. 

Let’s get right to it:

Chicago Style Popcorn Ingredients

For the Popcorn 

• ½ cup kernels
• 2 tablespoons oil

For the Cheese Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons cheddar cheese powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

For the Caramel Sauce

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup butter
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Chicago Style Popcorn Directions

Step 1: Heat

Set your stove to medium heat and let your Popper preheat for 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add Oil

Pour oil into the pot.

Step 3: Toss Kernels

Drop 3 kernels into the Popper. Add the rest after the first one pops, then cover the pot.

Step 4: Turn 

Turn the Popper’s crank clockwise as the kernels pop. Do this every couple of seconds to keep them from getting stuck in one place. 

Step 5: Divide

When popping slows, take your Popsmith off the heat, remove the lid, and pour the popcorn into two big bowls. 

Step 6: Add Cheese Seasoning

Sprinkle the cheddar cheese powder, salt, and garlic powder (if you’re using it) over one of the bowls of popcorn. Give the bowl a good shake to distribute the seasoning evenly, then set aside. 

Step 7: Make Caramel Sauce

Melt butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt — the mixture will turn foamy!

Pour the caramel sauce over the remaining popcorn and toss to coat. 

Step 8: Set

Spread the caramel corn over on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it cool for 15 to 20 minutes. 

Step 9: Serve

Mix your caramel and cheese popcorn together and enjoy your very own Chicago style popcorn!

More Chicago Mix Popcorn Tips

• Work quickly when coating the caramel popcorn – the mixture sets fast!

• For an extra cheesy flavor, add a bit of powdered parmesan.

• This makes a great gift for popcorn lovers or anyone who loves a good snack! You can store the popcorn in a mason jar and wrap a festive ribbon around it or use a tin box. 

Sweet and Salty Perfection Awaits

And just like that, you’ve learned how to make your own version of classic Chicago popcorn. Now you’ve got another popcorn recipe up your sleeve to whip out whenever. Movie night will definitely never be boring at your place!

Looking for more snacking inspiration? Check out our blog for easy popcorn recipes! And if you don’t have a Popsmith yet, get yours here along with your choice of popcorn kits. 

FAQs About Chicago Mix Popcorn

What is Chicago style popcorn?

Chicago style popcorn originated at Garrett Popcorn, a homegrown Chicago popcorn store. Garrett had two popular flavors — caramel and cheese popcorn — that customers loved to mix together. The store eventually started selling the sweet and salty duo as Chicago Mix, and history was made. 

How long is Chicago popcorn good for?

This homemade Chicago popcorn is best eaten within 5 days. We’re sure it’ll be gone before then, though!