Learn how to make sugar free kettle corn using this recipe (2024)

Published: · Modified: by thesugarfreediva. · This post may contain affiliate or amazon links.

A yummy snack that has no added sugar.

See The Recipe

I was really kind of surprised when I learned How to Make Sugar Free Kettle Corn
Adding a bit of sweetness to my favorite go-to snack (popcorn) makes snacking even yummier!

How to Make Sugar Free Kettle Corn

Like so many people that I know, I just love the taste of popcorn.
I could eat popcorn every day if I could. Popcorn is just that yummy to me.

People seem to like popcorn because it is so easy to make.

We can also top it with just about anything. While butter and salt may be a popular topping idea, we do have other options. Sometimes, we can make our popcorn taste a bit sweet too.

Kettle popcorn is that popcorn that has a hint of sweet.

While it is not as sweet as caramel corn is, it is still sweeter than the normal plain popcorn. Kettle corn also has a hint of salt as well.

You may have seen kettle corn made at a fair in a large kettle.
Usually there is someone with a paddle stirring the popcorn in an attempt to keep it from burning. However, it is usually the wonderful aroma that gets us even more interested in that popcorn.

Kettle Popcorn is popcorn with a hint of sweet.

Naturally, that sweet is usually in the form of sugar. However, there is a way to make kettle corn without all of that sugar.

By the way, you can learn more about sugar free cooking and baking.
You can check out my guide on baking with sugar alternatives on Amazon I have some great tips on which alternatives may work in a recipe such as this one.

Also, be sure to follow me on facebook and subscribe to my recipes via email to keep up to date as well.

Here are some recipes that you may also be interested in as well.

  • Homemade Sugar Free Graham Crackers.
  • Sugar Free Sugared Nuts.
  • Sugar Free S'Mores.

Here is what you will need to make Sugar Free Kettle Corn

We will incorporate making popcorn in this recipe.

Ingredients needed.

  • Popcorn Kernels- ½ cup
  • Oil- such as coconut, vegetable or peanut oil- ¼ cup
  • Sugar alternative- ⅓ cup equivalent to sugar. Granular such as Splenda works best.
  • Kosher Salt-¼ teaspoon

How to Make Sugar Free Kettle Corn

  • In a large pot set on medium heat, place your oil along with two kernels of the popcorn. Caution: Be sure to wear protective covering as when the popcorn kernels pop, it will most likely pop out of the pot.
  • When the two popcorn kernels pop, add your remaining kernels, sugar alternative and salt to the pot.
  • Cover the pot with a lid and give it a quick shake from side to side.
  • While the popcorn is heating up, make sure that you have a large bowl nearby as you will quickly need to pour the popcorn into it. also, you will need to use pot holders or mitts as you shake the popcorn and move the pot.
  • Shake your popcorn pot from side to side every minute and a half to two minutes. Once it starts to pop consistently and sounds like the pot is half full, you can remove the pot from the heat or turn the heat off.
  • Continue to shake the pot back and forth to avoid burning the popcorn.
  • When the popcorn reaches the top of the pot, use a pot holder to remove the lid- do not stand over the pot as the popcorn will still be popping most likely. As a result of removing the lid, the popping kernel can jump out of the pot.
  • Dump the popcorn into the large bowl. Remember, the pot will be hot so take precautions.

Details Prep time: 5 mins Cook time: 15 mins Total time: 20 mins Yield: 4-6 depending on size

Learn how to make sugar free kettle corn using this recipe (3)

Print Recipe

4.37 from 93 votes

How to Make Sugar Free Kettle Corn

A yummy snack that has no added sugar.

Ingredients

  • Popcorn Kernels- ½ cup
  • Oil- such as coconut vegetable or peanut oil- ¼ cup
  • Sugar alternative- ⅓ cup equivalent to sugar. Granular such as Splenda works best.
  • Kosher Salt-¼ teaspoon

Instructions

  • In a large pot set on medium heat, place your oil along with two kernels of the popcorn. Caution: Be sure to wear protective covering as when the popcorn kernels pop, it will most likely pop out of the pot.

  • When the two popcorn kernels pop, add your remaining kernels, sugar alternative and salt to the pot.

  • Cover the pot with a lid and give it a quick shake from side to side.

  • While the popcorn is heating up, make sure that you have a large bowl nearby as you will quickly need to pour the popcorn into it. also, you will need to use pot holders or mitts as you shake the popcorn and move the pot.

  • Shake your popcorn pot from side to side every minute and a half to two minutes. Once it starts to pop consistently and sounds like the pot is half full, you can remove the pot from the heat or turn the heat off.

  • Continue to shake the pot back and forth to avoid burning the popcorn.

  • When the popcorn reaches the top of the pot, use a pot holder to remove the lid- do not stand over the pot as the popcorn will still be popping most likely. As a result of removing the lid, the popping kernel can jump out of the pot.

  • Dump the popcorn into the large bowl. Remember, the pot will be hot so take precautions.

Recipe Notes

Details Prep time: 5 mins Cook time: 15 mins Total time: 20 mins Yield: 4-6 depending on size See post for details

22.2K

most recently updated:

July 4, 2017

*About Sugar Alternatives

Specific sugar alternatives are not given in the recipes presented on this site. Only suggestions are given as to the 'kind' of alternative to use. It is up to you to select the alternative to use that suits your needs best. If the recipe is heated or cooked, it is best to use an alternative that can be heated or cooked with for best results. This site does not endorse any specific ingredients,

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that the links on this website, and specifically on this post, that lead to other sites may be affiliate links.
Please note: Nutritional data has been calculated using a tool that comes with this recipe card and not by me. This means that Nutritional Information is only an estimate and can vary especially with ingredients that you use. The accuracy of this tool may differ from other tools as expected. Also note that there is no instructional value to the video that may be attached to this recipe. It is only there for visual pleasure. For more information about the images in this recipe, please refer the the recipe instructions. Thank you!

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Learn how to make sugar free kettle corn using this recipe (2024)

FAQs

How do you keep sugar from burning in kettle corn? ›

Once hot, stir in the sugar and popcorn. Cover, and shake the pot constantly to keep the sugar from burning. Once the popping has slowed to once every 2 to 3 seconds, remove the pot from the heat and continue to shake for a few minutes until the popping has stopped.

Does all kettle corn have sugar? ›

Kettle corn is a sweet variety of popcorn that is typically mixed or seasoned with a light-colored refined sugar, salt, and oil.

What is the healthiest way to make popcorn at home? ›

Air popped popcorn uses no oil, meaning it has the fewest calories. “Popping it in oil, however, is a great way to consume a healthy portion of fat to control hunger,” Jeffers says. Not only can you manage serving size, but you can also make it in under 10 minutes in most cases.

What is the healthiest topping for popcorn? ›

8 Healthy Popcorn Toppings Sure to Amaze
  • 8 – Apple Pie Popcorn. You'll swear you're chowing down on a very light and delicate apple pie. ...
  • 7 – Pumpkin Glazed Popcorn. ...
  • 6 – Lemon Kale Popcorn. ...
  • 5 – Lime Cilantro Popcorn. ...
  • 4 – Italian Breadstick Popcorn. ...
  • 3 – Rosemary, Black Pepper and Parmesan Popcorn. ...
  • 2 – Peanut Butter Popcorn.
Dec 4, 2015

How do you not burn sugar when cooking? ›

Use a heavy-bottomed pan: A heavy-bottomed pan distributes heat more evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots that can cause sugar to burn. This type of pan also helps to prevent scorching by providing better heat control. 2. Cook on low to medium heat: Start with low to medium heat and gradually increase it if needed.

Where does kettle corn get its sweetness from? ›

c) Sugar: Granulated sugar is a key component of kettle corn, adding the signature sweetness to each kernel. The sugar combines with the oil and salt during the cooking process, creating a caramel-like coating.

What is the best kettle corn for diabetics? ›

Boom Chicka Pop Sweet and Salty Kettle Corn

Boom Chicka Pop is a lower-sugar version of Kettle Corn. Some brands of kettle corn can be very high in sugar. Yet this version gives you the same great taste without the stuff you don't want.

Can diabetics eat kettle corn? ›

However, it is important to check the packaging as prepared bags often contain extra butter or sugar. Instead, people can look for packets of popcorn with light, unsalted butter or fewer calories. People with diabetes should avoid kettle corn varieties, as the extra sweetness comes with additional sugar.

How much sugar is in kettle corn? ›

Region: US
ServingIngredientCalories
5.45 gramsvegetable oil48
5 gramssugar19
8 gair popped popcorn31
Nov 30, 2015

What happens when you eat too much popcorn? ›

If your popcorn has lots of salt on it, Smith says this can lead to water retention, causing high blood pressure. She also points out that eating too much popcorn can also negatively impact your oral health because unpopped kernels can damage teeth.

Is it good to eat homemade popcorn everyday? ›

Eating popcorn every night is generally not a problem, as long as it is consumed in moderation and prepared in a healthy manner. However, it's important to consider the nutritional content and portion sizes. Plain air-popped or lightly salted popcorn can be a good low-calorie snack option.

Can I eat homemade popcorn everyday? ›

However, moderation is key. Even though it is much more filling than many other snack foods, it can still be fattening if you eat too much of it. Popcorn is high in fiber, relatively low in calories and has a low energy density. Eating it in moderation may help with weight loss.

Can dogs eat popcorn? ›

Is Eating Popcorn Safe for Dogs? Yes and no. Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. Buttered popcorn or popcorn with other toppings is not safe for your dog on a regular basis, although eating a few dropped pieces here and there probably won't hurt them.

What is the secret ingredient in popcorn? ›

The flavor all comes down to one ingredient: Flavacol. You've likely never heard of Flavacol because, really, only movie theaters use it. Essentially, it's butter-flavored salt. It's a really fine, bright orange powder that adds that buttery flavor you crave and the signature yellow color.

Why does my kettle corn always burn? ›

Do not make the mistake of removing the pot from heat without transferring to a bowl. Due to the high heat of the pot, if you don't transfer the popcorn it will caramelize and perhaps burn.

Does sugar in boiling water burn more? ›

In this study, we have demonstrated that boiled sugar solution does have the potential to cause higher temperatures of burn, although this is more likely due to an effect on the initial temperature of burn rather than any effect on cooling due to viscosity or emissivity.

How to add sugar to popcorn machine? ›

For instance, if you want to make mouth-watering kettle corn, try adding about 1/4-1/3 cups of sugar to the popcorn maker after you add your kernels and oil. As the popcorn cooks, the sugar should melt, giving it a delicious sweet crunch!

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