Kettle Corn is a the perfect movie snack for those who love a sweet and salty combo snack. You can find Kettle Corn booths at local farmer’s markets or carnivals. While kettle corn was originally made in cast iron kettles (hence, the name) you can make it at home for a fraction of the cost with delicious results.
Next to Rice Krispie Treats, Kettle Corn is a very dangerous thing to have in close proximity to moi. I need an intervention, or I can guarantee I’ll eat the entire batch of these treats. Freshly popped kettle corn, with the perfect combo of sweet and salty– it makes me want to visit all the county fairs, just to buy a big bag all to myself. Recently, I asked how much a small of kettle corn cost, at a farmer’s market. $12.00!!! What?!! I politely passed and decided I’d make some at home. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s just as delicious as you can buy at any farmer’s market or carnival.
This recipe was originally posted in 2012. I decided it was time to update with newer photos. I’ve also tweaked the ration of sugar and salt for that perfect balance of sweet and salty.
TASTING NOTES: Nom, nom, nom. Sweet. Salt. Crunchy. So good! Admittedly, I add about 1/4 cup sugar nowadays. I lean more towards the sweet than the salty. Adjust to your taste!
How to Make Perfect Kettle Corn at Home
Equipment
- Recommended: Whirley Pop Popcorn Popper or a deep pot with a tight fitting lid
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup yellow corn kernels
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar I use 1/3 cup for extra sweetness; adjust to taste
- 1 tsp kosher salt or to taste
Instructions
- Make sure that the pan is easy to lift and has a tight-fitting lid as you will need to shake it around– unless you are using a Whirley Pop Popper
- Heat the oil in a large pan (I prefer coconut oil because it has a higher smoke point) over medium heat.
- Add the butter and melt.
- Add the corn kernels and sprinkle the sugar as evenly as possible over the unpopped corn. Place the lid on the pot and increase the heat to medium-high.
- When the corn begins to pop, place the lid on top. Using two pot holders (or two thick kitchen towels) hold the lid tightly. Carefully, but deliberately remove the pot from the heat and shake a bit. You want to make sure that the sugar doesn't burn at the bottom, so removing from the heat and shaking is essential! NOTE: I bought a Whirley Pop Popper because all I now have to do is turn the crack and the popcorn kernels are stirred around. So much easier!
- When the popping slows, turn off the heat and take the lid off slightly to release some of the steam. When the popping has completely stopped, remove the lid and sprinke the popcorn with half the salt.
- Dump the kettle corn into a large bowl and sprinkle with the remaining salt. The sugar will be hot, so be careful and stir with a wooden or silicone spoon to prevent any burned fingers.
Notes
I love her cookbook. I must admit the first time I made the kettle corn I burned half the batch. Second time around was much better.
I downloaded the book a few months ago…sadly, the pagination is wacky on my Nook. It could be the user thought…. I have enjoyed reading the book, also!
I had no idea you could make kettle corn at home. Wow. She sounds like someone I would enjoy reading as well.
Happy New Year.
Sam
P.S. I'm really sorry about all of your spam. I don't mind the comment moderation at all. I just can't read those codes very well. Thanks for not using them!
I participated in a group review of this book a few months ago so had the opportunity to try several of the recipes and I LOVED them all! Kettle Corn is something I usually get only during farmers' market season so this will be a treat treat, Debby. It sounds like you will enjoy your second vacation week. Happy New Year my friend.
Joy is my good buddy. I am so happy to see this. Make sure you watch the Poker night video on my blog. Joy is the mystery woman underneath the veil. She also makes an appearance in the soon to be released video of my Holiday Feast of the Seven Fishes. Happy New Year. Meeting you at FoodBuzz 2012 was one of the highlights for me. GREG
Joy is my good buddy. I am so happy to see this. Make sure you watch the Poker night video on my blog. Joy is the mystery woman underneath the veil. She also makes an appearance in the soon to be released video of my Holiday Feast of the Seven Fishes. Happy New Year. Meeting you at FoodBuzz 2012 was one of the highlights for me. GREG
Will have to show this to hubby… he's the popcorn lover in the family!
I just love this cookbook! I should give Kettle Corn a try. I make regular popcorn on the stove just like that (of course without the sugar)…I had no idea kettle corn was so simple. How did I miss this recipe when I reviewed the book?(and ya…those spammers have gotten out of control).
Joy is truly awesome, now isn't she? And as a young person (who is younger than Joy)…I also have no idea how she wore those shoes. Hmm.
I love Joy's cookbook but haven't made this kettle corn yet! Shame on me. Big time.
Oh I just adore kettle corn! And I have had a whirly pop on my wish list for a while. Maybe I should elbow hubby for Christmas…