Chocolate Popcorn

For a fun presentation, package the popcorn in decorative bags or jars as party favors.

Drizzle extra melted chocolate on top after it cools for a more decadent treat. Bonus points for using a different chocolate (such as white chocolate) for drizzling.

Try different flavorings, such as adding a pinch of sea salt or sprinkling with crushed candy for variety.

Use a large bowl to mix and coat the popcorn to avoid breaking the popped kernels.

Keep an eye on the popcorn in the oven, as ovens may vary; the goal is to dry it out without burning.

If you find the chocolate coating is not sticking well, try warming it slightly or adding a bit of additional melted chocolate.

Break apart any clumps of popcorn while it's cooling for a more manageable snack.

Use unsweetened cocoa powder in the chocolate sauce for a deeper chocolate flavor.

For a fun twist, try infusing the sugar mixture with spices like cinnamon or cayenne for added warmth and depth.

Make sure all the popcorn is coated before baking.

What type of popcorn should I use for chocolate popcorn?

You can use any variety of plain popcorn, but air-popped or stove-popped popcorn is preferred to avoid added flavors or oils that can interfere with the chocolate coating.

Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes, but make sure to choose plain or lightly salted microwave popcorn. The flavor and texture may differ slightly from air-popped popcorn.

What is the purpose of corn syrup in this recipe?

Corn syrup helps to give the popcorn its chewy texture and helps prevent sugar crystallization, making sure the coating is smooth and evenly distributed.

Can I substitute brown sugar for white sugar?

Using brown sugar will give the popcorn a richer flavor due to the molasses content, but the color and texture may be slightly different.

What can I use instead of semisweet chocolate chips?

You can use milk chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor or dark chocolate for a more intense chocolate taste. White chocolate is also an option for a different twist.

How do I store the chocolate popcorn?

Once completely cooled, store the chocolate popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Can I freeze chocolate popcorn?

You can freeze chocolate popcorn for up to two months. Make sure it's stored in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent moisture.

Can I add other toppings or mix-ins?

Try adding nuts, dried fruits, or marshmallows for added texture and flavor.

What can I do if the chocolate sauce is too thick?

If the chocolate sauce is too thick, you can add a small amount of milk or cream while mixing to loosen it up before drizzling it over the popcorn.

Can I make chocolate popcorn ahead of time for a party?

Yes, chocolate popcorn keeps well for several days, so you can prepare it a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store it properly.

Popcorn Popper or Large Pot (if not using pre-popped popcorn): For popping the corn kernels. A popcorn popper is ideal, but a large pot with a lid can also be used.

Measuring Cups: To measure ingredients such as sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.

Large Baking Pan (11x17-inches): To hold the popped popcorn while it is being coated with chocolate and for baking in the oven.

Saucepan: For combining the sugar, corn syrup, and butter over medium heat to create the chocolate coating.

Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the mixture in the saucepan and for evenly coating the popcorn with the chocolate sauce.

Aluminum Foil: For spreading out the baked popcorn to cool after removing it from the oven, preventing sticking and helping with cleanup.

Air-tight Container: For storing the cooled chocolate popcorn to maintain its freshness for up to 1 week.

Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the chocolate popcorn for an additional layer of sweetness. The buttery, rich flavor of caramel can boost the overall indulgence.

Peanut Butter: Toss a bit of peanut butter into the chocolate sauce before coating the popcorn for a savory twist. The saltiness of peanut butter balances the sweetness effectively.

Nuts: Mix in roasted peanuts or almonds for added crunch. Nuts provide a contrasting texture and complement the chocolate flavor nicely.

Marshmallows: Scatter mini marshmallows over the finished popcorn to introduce a chewy texture.

Dried Fruit: Add dried cranberries or cherries for a tart contrast to the sweetness.

Ice Cream: Serve the chocolate popcorn as a topping for vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The warmth and crunch of the popcorn enhance the creamy texture of the ice cream.

Hot Cocoa: Pair with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a comforting snack experience. The chocolate elements in both creations will harmonize and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Popcorn Bars: Press the coated popcorn into a baking dish and cut into bars. This transforms it into a hand-held snack, perfect for parties or on-the-go.

Wine Pairings
Sparkling Wine: A crisp, bubbly sparkling wine like Prosecco or Cava can be a nice companion. The effervescence cuts through the sweetness and richness of the chocolate, keeping things light and festive. Look for something fruity with notes of pear or apple for added fun.

Dessert Wine: A sweet dessert wine like Moscato or late-harvest Riesling complements the chocolate popcorn beautifully.

Malbec: A smooth Malbec, full of dark fruit flavors like blackberry and plum, adds a lovely contrast. Its slight tannins won't overpower the sweetness of the chocolate popcorn but instead, create a nice balance.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Chocolate Martini: A rich chocolate martini brings the chocolate indulgence to a new level. The creamy texture along with hints of vanilla and actual chocolate really echo the flavors in the snack.

Port: A Ruby Port is another sweet option that can mirror the popcorn's chocolatey nature. Its deep, jammy fruit flavors and richness will tie in well with the dessert aspect.

Coffee Liqueur: Enjoying popcorn with a coffee liqueur like Kahlua could be just the pick-me-up you didn't know you needed. The coffee notes can enhance the chocolate and add a unique twist.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Hot Chocolate: You can't go wrong with a cup of hot chocolate. The chocolate flavors of the drink will resonate with the popcorn.

Chai Latte: A chai latte with its spiced, creamy goodness is a surprising pairing. The spices can highlight some of the flavors in the chocolate while providing a warm, comforting contrast to the popcorn.

Soda: A chocolate-flavored soda or even a root beer adds a fun twist to the experience. The carbonation and sweetness mix nicely with the popcorn, giving it a playful touch.