Dairy Free Popcorn: The Ultimate Guide

Get ready to elevate your snacking game with the star of the show – popcorn! If you’re on a dairy-free journey, you can still enjoy this movie night staple. In this post, we’ll dive into the world of dairy-free popcorn!

Choosing the Right Popcorn

The only way to guarantee that your popcorn is dairy-free is to start with plain popcorn kernels.  Yellow kernels are the easiest to find, but there are so many options that you can try. Different popcorn kernels produce different colors and slightly different textures. Have some fun trying different popcorn kernels!

Here are some fun organic popcorn kernels to try:

• White Popcorn Kernels
• Lesser Evil Popcorn Kernels
• Heirloom Multi Colored Popcorn
• Mushroom Popcorn (Large popcorn)
• Amish Purple, Red and Blue Popcorn

The Perfect Pop: Stovetop vs. Air Popper

None of us need another gadget in our kitchens, even if it is a trendy-looking air popper! Stovetop popping will provide that classic, crunchy texture and it is so much easier than you think! 

​If you are looking for a foolproof microwave option, pick up a Glass Microwaveable Popcorn Popper. We have one of these and it is the best way for kids to get involved.

​Now, if you are looking to entertain, or if you just want to add some fun to movie night, try this Countertop Popcorn Maker. My husband ordered one of these and I’m still not convinced that we need it but it is fun when we have kids over or when we need some excitement at home!

Delicious Popcorn Flavors

The popcorn you get at your local movie theatre is slathered in butter flavor and salt. If you read the ingredient list on store-bought brands, you will be convinced that homemade popcorn is the way to go. 

Make your own gourmet popcorn using common ingredients that you probably have in your spice cabinet!

1. Dairy-Free Butter Alternatives
   • Discover a world of vegan butter substitutes like coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, or other vegan options. We have found that coconut oil works best because of its high smoke point. 
   • Experiment with different options to find the perfect balance of flavor and richness.
2. Flavor Explosion: Creative Seasonings
   • Sprinkle the cooked popcorn with sea salt or Himalayan pink salt. The oil that you use to pop the kernels will help the salt adhere to the popcorn. If it isn’t sticking, spray the popcorn with cooking spray for a little bit of moisture. 
   • Embrace nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
   • Sprinkle on your favorite herbs and spices – You can try a savory flavor like garlic powder or smoked paprika, or even add a touch of cinnamon for a sweet twist.
3. Sweet Tooth Fix: Dessert-Inspired Popcorn
   • Create a dairy-free caramel popcorn by sprinkling coconut sugar or maple syrup sugar over the popcorn.
   • Toss in dairy-free chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts for an indulgent yet guilt-free treat.
4. Cheesy Popcorn Cravings
   • Make your own dairy-free cheese powder using nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
   • Drizzle with a touch of olive oil for that satisfyingly cheesy experience.
5. Mix and Match: Trail Mix Popcorn
   • Combine popcorn with your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a nutritious and flavorful snack.
   • Experiment with different combinations to find your go-to mix.
6. Portable Popcorn: Snack Packs on the Go
   • Prepare small, dairy-free popcorn snack packs for a convenient and satisfying munch on the go.
   • Perfect for lunchboxes, road trips, or an office pick-me-up.

​How To Make Stovetop Popcorn

Now that we’ve gone over the basics, here are the steps to making your own popcorn:

Step 1: Add 2 Tablespoons of oil to a large covered dutch oven, or large pot with a lid over medium-high heat. Make sure there is enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. I find coconut oil gives the crispiest kernels, probably due to its high smoke point. 

Step 2: Once the pot is heated, add one kernel to the pot and cover. Wait until the kernel pops and then remove it from the pot. 

Step 3: Add 1/4 Cup of kernels to the pot and put the lid back on. Remove it from the heat for 45 seconds, just enough to warm up the kernels

Step 4: ​Place the pot back on the stove and wait until the popcorn starts to pop. Once it pops, shake the pan to prevent burnt popcorn. Once it starts to burn, the entire batch will need to be thrown out. 

Step 5: ​Once the popping slows to every few seconds, remove the pot from the stove and add your favorite toppings! 

With these dairy-free popcorn tips and tricks, you’ll experience snack-time magic! Whether you’re craving savory, sweet, or something in between, this healthy snack will satisfy your movie theater popcorn cravings! 

Looking for more? Here are some of our recent posts!

• Pickled Red Onions
• How To Cook Rice: Stove Top, Instant Pot, and Rice Cooker Methods
• How to store bananas for extended shelf life
• From steel-cut to instant: The wonderful world of oats
• Fall Fruit Salad with Mandarins, Berries and More