Why I Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and easy snack, this air fryer popcorn is the perfect solution! Not only is it made without oil, butter, or sugar, but it’s ready in under 10 minutes and is the perfect light snack for when you’re craving something crispy and satisfying. It’s low in calories—just 77 kcal per serving—and you can customize it with your favorite seasonings for a personal touch. This recipe is simple, fast, and requires just a few basic ingredients, making it a must-try for anyone with an air fryer!
Air Fryer Popcorn (No Oil, No Butter)
Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 1 minute
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 9 minutes
Calories: 77 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1 teaspoon salt (to serve)
See notes for flavor options
Instructions
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C/400°F for 5 minutes. This ensures that the kernels pop evenly and quickly.
2. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
- Line the base of the air fryer basket with tin foil. This will help catch the unpopped kernels and prevent them from flying around the air fryer. Make sure the tin foil doesn’t cover the holes in the basket, as you still need air circulation for even popping.
3. Add Popcorn Kernels:
- Spread the popcorn kernels in a single layer on top of the tin foil. Avoid overcrowding the kernels, as this ensures they pop evenly and fully.
4. Cook the Popcorn:
- Place the air fryer basket into the preheated air fryer and cook for 8 minutes. Listen closely for the popping sound. When the popping slows down significantly (about 1-2 seconds between pops), your popcorn is ready.
5. Rest for Extra Popping:
- After the cook time is over, let the popcorn sit in the air fryer for 30 seconds to allow any last kernels to pop.
6. Season and Serve:
- Carefully remove the basket and transfer the popcorn into a mixing bowl. Toss with salt or your favorite seasonings (see flavor options below) and enjoy your freshly made, crispy popcorn!
Flavor Options
This basic popcorn recipe is easy to customize with a wide variety of seasonings. Here are a few ideas:
- Cheese Popcorn: Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese or cheddar powder.
- Herbed Popcorn: Add a mixture of dried oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Spicy Popcorn: Toss with chili powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Sweet Popcorn: If you prefer a sweet snack, try sprinkling with a bit of cinnamon and stevia or Monkfruit sweetener.
Tips & Tricks
- Uniform Layering: Make sure the kernels are in a single layer to prevent uneven popping. If they’re piled on top of each other, some kernels may not pop.
- Listen for the Pops: The popping sound is your best indicator for when the popcorn is done. Once the popping slows down, it’s time to stop the air fryer.
- Prevent Overcooking: If you leave the popcorn in the air fryer for too long, it can burn quickly. Always stay close by to listen and stop once the popping slows.
- Use Parchment Paper: If you don’t want to use tin foil, you can line the basket with parchment paper. Make sure it’s perforated to allow air flow.
Notes
- Flavor Customization: You can make savory or sweet popcorn based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or toppings to make it your own.
- Avoid Overcrowding: For best results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. If necessary, pop the kernels in batches to ensure each kernel has enough space to pop.
Storage
Like microwave or stovetop popcorn, air fryer popcorn can be stored at room temperature in a sealed container. It will stay fresh for up to 1 week. Be sure to let it cool completely before storing to prevent moisture from building up inside the container.
FAQs
1. Can I use other seasonings for popcorn?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize the flavor with almost anything—from nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, to cocoa powder and a sweetener for a dessert-style popcorn. The options are endless!
2. Can I use frozen popcorn kernels?
Frozen kernels will not pop as effectively in the air fryer because they can retain moisture. It’s best to use room-temperature, dried kernels for the best popping results.
3. Can I make a larger batch of popcorn at once?
To ensure even popping, it’s best to pop in batches if you’re making a larger quantity. The air fryer’s basket works best when it’s not overcrowded, as this helps the kernels pop evenly.
4. Can I add butter to the popcorn after it’s cooked?
Yes, you can drizzle melted butter on your popcorn after it’s popped. Just be sure to toss it well so that the butter is evenly distributed, and enjoy a richer flavor!
This air fryer popcorn is the perfect healthy snack that’s both quick and satisfying. No oil, no butter, just pure popcorn goodness in under 10 minutes. Whether you’re snacking during a movie night or looking for a light, crispy bite, this recipe is sure to hit the spot! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own
