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Hot Honey Popcorn Recipe

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4.8 from 83 reviews

This Hot Honey Popcorn recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors with a crunchy, buttery texture. Featuring air-popped or stovetop popcorn coated in a luscious glaze of honey, brown sugar, butter, and a kick of red pepper flakes or hot sauce, it’s an irresistible snack for movie nights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Popcorn Base

  • 4 cups air-popped or stovetop popcorn

Hot Honey Glaze

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes or dash of hot sauce

Optional Garnishes

  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • Sea salt for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pop the popcorn: Use your preferred method to pop 4 cups of popcorn, either air-popped or stovetop. Spread the popped kernels evenly in a large bowl or on a sheet pan to prepare for glazing.
  2. Make the hot honey glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir in 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens and becomes syrupy.
  3. Coat the popcorn: While the glaze is still hot, drizzle it evenly over the popcorn. Immediately toss the popcorn with a spatula or clean hands to ensure every kernel is well coated with the hot honey mixture.
  4. Cool and garnish: Spread the coated popcorn on parchment paper or a clean tray in a thin layer and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set and crisp up. If desired, sprinkle sea salt over the popcorn while still warm to enhance the flavors. Optionally, you can add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract to the glaze before drizzling for a subtle aromatic note.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to control the heat level.
  • Use fresh popcorn for the best texture and to ensure the glaze adheres properly.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crispy.
  • Optional vanilla extract adds a nice depth of flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
  • For stovetop popping, use a high-smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil.

Find it online: https://oliviabakes.com/hot-honey-popcorn-recipe/