A Kernel of Advice: How to Use Coconut Oil for Popcorn

You can make popcorn using coconut oil in 5 easy steps outlined below.

As a nutritionist, I can give you the inside scoop on choosing coconut oil that is healthiest for you. This way, not only will you be able to enjoy your treat, you can make it less guilty too!

Whats more, here is everything you need to know from quantity to method to get this process just right!

Table of Contents

Coconut Oil Popcorn Recipe

Ingredients

3 tbs. coconut oil
1/3 cup of popcorn kernels
Salt to taste
Popcorn seasoning to taste (optional)

Method

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Scoop the coconut oil into the pan and heat it until it has melted.

Add two or three kernels of popcorn to the oil once it is liquid.

Step 2: Add the Rest of the Kernels

Once the kernels begin to pop, turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stove.

Add the rest of the kernels to the pan and cover the pot.

Give the pan a shake so that the kernels are evenly distributed.

Let the pot rest for 30 to 60 seconds.

Step 3: Begin the Popping Process

Turn the heat on medium and place the pot on the stovetop.

Cook the kernels, gently shaking the pot ever so often.

Once the kernels begin to pop, gently tip the lid open to allow the steam to escape.

Step 4: Remove When Popping Reduces

Continue to cook the kernels until the popping reduces in frequency.

If only one or two kernels are popping every few seconds, it is time to take the popcorn off the heat.

Step 5: Add Seasoning

Pour the popcorn into a bowl and season to taste.

Toss the popcorn until the seasoning has been evenly distributed.

The Top Tips for Making Popcorn with Coconut Oil

Here are some tried-and-true guidelines for using coconut oil for your popcorn:

Use the Right Coconut Oil

As you are probably aware, there are different types of coconut oil.

Primarily, though, they can be categorized as either refined or unrefined coconut oil.

Unrefined coconut oil – often known as virgin coconut oil – is the healthiest option. This is because it contains the most amount of nutrients.

Thus, this is what you should use when making coconut oil popcorn.

No products found. is an excellent option for you. It has a high smoke point and has a particularly rich aroma and flavor.

Another thing to take note of when choosing coconut oil is the taste.

Coconut oils tend to vary in taste according to the brand. Thus, some coconut oils may have a distinct sweet and nutty flavor.

In this case, the flavor will be transferred to the popcorn.

How Much Coconut Oil for Popcorn?

On average, you will need about 3 tablespoons of coconut oil for each 1/3 cup of kernels.

If you are trying to cut down on calories, you can experiment with using around 2 tablespoons per ½ cup.

In case this doesn’t pop all the kernels as you hoped, you can then increase the amount of coconut oil.

Making Popcorn on the Stovetop

There is an art to making popcorn on stovetops. If you get it right, you can guarantee that you will be able to enjoy some of the most delicious popcorn you have ever tasted.

There are a few things that you need to be aware of when making popcorn:

Use a Good Pan: you need a good-quality heavy-bottomed pan that will distribute heat more evenly. This will reduce the risk of burning your popcorn.
Use High-Quality Kernels: this will result in better tasting popcorn, that will probably be healthier for you as well, particularly if they are organic.
Test the Oil: while heating the oil, add a couple of kernels to the pan. If the oil is ready, the kernels will pop, indicating that it is the right time to add the rest of the kernels.
Lift the Lid Up: when the corn is popping, lift the lid up to allow the steam to escape. This will prevent moisture from accumulating and producing soggy kernels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the more commonly asked questions about popping popcorn with coconut oil:

Is Coconut Oil Good for Popcorn?

Yes, coconut oil is good for popcorn! In fact, many movie theaters will actually use coconut oil to pop their corn so you will be adding authenticity to your treat.

Is Coconut Oil Popcorn Healthy?

While popcorn by itself is a healthy snack, each teaspoon of coconut oil contains 40 calories and 4.5g of fat. Also, coconut oil contains saturated fats. So, it is best not to overindulge too much.

What Kind of Coconut Oil Do You Use for Popping Corn?

Unrefined coconut oil is the best and healthiest option for your popcorn. In particular, consider using No products found. for the best flavor and cooking experience.

This is what you need to know about using coconut oil to make popcorn. Now that you know the tips and the tricks, you can easily make your own delicious batch.