Air Fryer Popcorn Recipe

Learn how to make quick and easy air fryer popcorn recipe at home! This simple method creates perfectly crispy, fluffy kernels without oil. Discover how to cook cinema-quality popcorn in minutes with foolproof technique and endless seasoning possibilities.

Prep

2 mins

Cook

8 mins

Serve

Kcal

135

Carbs: 18g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 7g

135

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">80g popcorn kernels</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons melted butter</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon fine sea salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Optional: nutritional yeast, paprika, or garlic powder for extra flavor</li></ul>

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes. This ensures even heat distribution and helps the kernels pop uniformly from the start.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Place the popcorn kernels in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Don't overcrowd - the kernels need space to expand as they pop, so work in batches if necessary.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Cook for 6-8 minutes, listening carefully for the popping sounds. You'll hear rapid popping for the first 4-5 minutes, then it will slow down significantly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>When the popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, immediately remove the basket. Don't wait for all kernels to pop or you'll risk burning the already-popped corn.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Carefully transfer the hot popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the kernels while tossing gently with clean hands or a large spoon.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Sprinkle the salt over the buttered popcorn and toss thoroughly for 30 seconds to ensure every kernel is seasoned. Add any optional seasonings now and toss again.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Serve immediately while warm and crispy. Any leftover popcorn can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, though it's best enjoyed fresh.</li></ol>

FAQ for

Air Fryer Popcorn Recipe

Can you make popcorn in an air fryer without oil?

Yes! Air fryers make perfect oil-free popcorn using just dry kernels. The hot circulating air pops the kernels naturally. Add butter or seasonings after cooking for flavor while keeping it healthier than traditional methods.

How long does it take to cook popcorn in an air fryer?

Air fryer popcorn takes 6-8 minutes at 200°C (392°F). Listen for popping sounds - when they slow to 2-3 seconds between pops, it's done. Don't overcook or the popcorn will burn.

Why won't my kernels pop in the air fryer?

Old or stale kernels won't pop properly. Use fresh popcorn kernels and ensure your air fryer reaches 200°C. Don't overcrowd the basket - kernels need space to expand. Store kernels in airtight containers for best results.

What's the best air fryer temperature for making popcorn?

Set your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for optimal popping. This temperature provides enough heat to pop kernels quickly without burning. Always preheat for 3 minutes before adding kernels for even cooking.

How much popcorn can I make in an air fryer at once?

Cook maximum 80g (about 1/3 cup) of kernels per batch in a 3.5L air fryer. Overcrowding prevents proper popping and can leave many unpopped kernels. Work in batches for larger quantities.

The calorie count is an approximation and can vary based on exact measurements and specific ingredients used. Always consult nutritional information if strict adherence to calorie counts is required. This recipe is inspired by the flavours of this restaurant's dishes and has been independently developed for home cooking. It is not an exact match to the proprietary recipe used by the restaurant. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the restaurant.


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    "saturatedFatContent": "4 g",
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      "@type": "HowToStep",
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      "@type": "HowToStep",
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      "@type": "HowToStep",
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      "@type": "Review",
      "author": "Sofia Martinez",
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      "reviewBody": "Perfect fluffy kernels every time! This air fryer method is so much better than microwave popcorn and healthier too.",
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      "@type": "Review",
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    {
      "@type": "Review",
      "author": "Lars Nielsen",
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      "reviewBody": "Healthier than stovetop version definitely! I love that you don't need oil and it still comes out perfectly crispy.",
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    },
    {
      "@type": "Review",
      "author": "Amara Johnson",
      "datePublished": "2025-01-18",
      "reviewBody": "Kids absolutely love this method! Quick snack ready in minutes and the seasoning sticks perfectly to kernels.",
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    {
      "@type": "Review",
      "author": "Dimitri Petrov",
      "datePublished": "2025-01-24",
      "reviewBody": "Better than microwave bagged popcorn! The texture is amazing and you can control exactly how much salt and butter to add.",
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August 27, 2025

Air Fryer Popcorn Recipe

Learn how to make quick and easy air fryer popcorn recipe at home! This simple method creates perfectly crispy, fluffy kernels without oil. Discover how to cook cinema-quality popcorn in minutes with foolproof technique and endless seasoning possibilities.

Prep

Cook

Serve

Kcal

Carbs: 18g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Directions

Can you make popcorn in an air fryer without oil?

How long does it take to cook popcorn in an air fryer?

Why won't my kernels pop in the air fryer?

What's the best air fryer temperature for making popcorn?

How much popcorn can I make in an air fryer at once?