Tasty Kitchen

11 Popcorn Recipes That Go Beyond Basic Butter and Salt

Growing up, popcorn was always a go-to snack for me. My grandfather had a nightly ritual of making a bowl of popcorn and carefully sprinkling it with Parmesan cheese and black pepper before carrying it upstairs to watch whatever football game was on that night. I liked his style, and soon began to take my popcorn the same way - cheesy, buttery, and with the perfect bite of pepper.

Popcorn is a great snack - it's filling, easy to prepare, and presents the perfect opportunity to experiment with different flavors and toppings. You can keep your popcorn simple, with butter and salt, or dress it up for a night on the town. Here are eleven different ways to get started.

1. Dill Pickle Popcorn

If you love the fresh flavors of dill and vinegar, but would rather snack on popcorn instead, here's your chance.

Here's a recipe for you to try.

2. Italian Breadstick Popcorn

Here's a twist on popcorn that reminds me a lot of my early experiments with popcorn toppings, and the best news is that it uses ingredients you probably already have.

Next time you're craving breadsticks, give this recipe a chance.

3. Cinnamon Honey Popcorn

Popcorn doesn't have to be salty or savory. Try sprinkling it with honey and cinnamon for a warm, spicy snack. Try pairing it with hot chocolate on your next cold night.

Get the recipe here.

4. BBQ Ranch Popcorn

Here's an easy way to dress up your popcorn for a party. A simple combination of ranch seasoning, paprika, and brown sugar create one of our favorite flavors!

Check out the recipe for it here.

5. Caramel Twix Popcorn

If a recipe calls for candy, you know it's good. This oozy, caramel treat takes a little time - it bakes for an hour, but it's worth every minute.

Here's the recipe.

6. Everything Bagel Popcorn

Your favorite bagel flavor isn't just for breakfast. This popcorn is covered in garlic, onion, and poppy seeds. It's easy to make and results in the perfect afternoon snack.

Check out the recipe.

7. Tabasco Honey-Butter Popcorn

This popcorn from The Speckled Palate proves that there is nothing that hot sauce doesn't make better. There's the perfect balance of spice from the Tabasco, and sweetness from the honey.

You can find the recipe here.

8. Red Velvet Cake Popcorn

I'm a sucker for anything red velvet, and this popcorn is no exception. What's not to love about popcorn covered in white chocolate drizzle and yummy red velvet crumble?

Here's the recipe.

9. Birthday Cake Popcorn

Maybe birthday cake is more your thing. If that's the case, try out this delicious recipe that brings the sweet flavor of vanilla cake to salty, crunchy popcorn.

Check out this recipe the next time you're craving something sweet.

10. Sour Cream and Onion Popcorn

Sour cream and onion is a popular flavor for potato chips. But, it's also a flavor that really shines as a popcorn topping. It's a great addition to parties and get-togethers.

Find the recipe here.

11. Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Popcorn

Chocolate might not be the first thing you think to top popcorn with, but maybe it should be. If you love the flavors of rich dark chocolate and the zing of sea salt, this is the popcorn of your dreams.

Want to give it at try? Here you go. These 11 popcorn upgrades take the stress out of a fancy dessert - just microwave your favorite brand and add toppings to taste!

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