How to Make Zesty, Citrusy Lemon Popcorn

What’s light, tangy, and super easy to make with your Popsmith Popper? Lemon popcorn! This mouthwatering snack may seem like it’s best for summer, but trust us, it’s something you’ll want to enjoy year-round. 

Check out the recipe below:

Lemon Popcorn Ingredients

• ½ cup popcorn kernels
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil 
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme

Lemon Popcorn Directions

Step 1: Prepare Lemon Popcorn Seasoning

Mix melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and thyme in a small bowl and set aside. 

Step 2: Heat

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

Step 3: Pour Oil

Add the coconut oil to the pot.

Step 4: Add Kernels

Toss 2-3 kernels into the Popper. Add the rest when the first kernel pops, then cover the pot with the lid. 

Step 5: Pop

Turn the Popper’s crank clockwise as the kernels pop to prevent them from staying in one place and burning. 

PRO TIP: You don’t have to crank it the entire time — just give it a few turns here and there. The Popper will do most of the work for you. 

Step 6: Remove

When popping slows to 2 or 3 seconds between pops, remove your Popper from the heat and take off the lid.

Step 7: Season

Drizzle the lemon popcorn seasoning over your freshly popped popcorn, put the Popper’s lid back on, and crank or shake it to coat the popcorn evenly. 

Step 8: Serve

Pour your lemon popcorn into a huge bowl, wait a few minutes for steam to escape, and enjoy!

More Lemon Popcorn Tips

• Want a more intense lemon flavor? Increase the amount of lemon zest.
• A pinch of black or cayenne pepper will give your lemon popcorn a nice kick. 
• This popcorn is best eaten right away — it can get soggy fast!

Zest Up Your Life

And there you have it — another easy popcorn recipe that’s proof you can make a sophisticated snack even with basic ingredients! This lemon popcorn will hit the spot whether you serve it for movie night, a garden party, or whenever you want a light but satisfying treat.

Want more tangy popcorn inspiration? We think you’ll love our recipes for chili lime popcorn and dill pickle popcorn!