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smartfood white cheddar popcorn
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Homemade Cheddar Popcorn

This homemade cheddar popcorn recipe is rich, cheesy, and better than any store-bought version. With real cheddar cheese powder and a perfect seasoning blend, it's the ultimate snack for movie nights and gatherings.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base Popcorn:
  • 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
  • 3 tbsp coconut oil or canola oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
For the Cheddar Coating:
  • 1/4 cup cheddar cheese powder
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast optional
  • 1 tbsp powdered buttermilk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
For Binding the Cheese:
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

  • Large pot with lid
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Whisk
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Pop the Corn:
  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Add 3 kernels and cover. When they pop, add the rest of the kernels.
  3. Shake the pot occasionally while it pops.
  4. Remove from heat when popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops.
  5. Transfer to a large bowl immediately.
Prepare the Cheddar Coating:
  1. In a small bowl, mix cheddar cheese powder, nutritional yeast, powdered buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  2. Whisk to combine and break up any clumps.
Apply the Binding Agent:
  1. Combine melted butter and olive oil.
  2. Drizzle half over the hot popcorn, toss, then drizzle the rest and toss again.
Add the Cheddar Mixture:
  1. Sprinkle 1/3 of the cheese mix over the popcorn, toss, and repeat until fully coated.
Final Touches:
  1. Spread on a baking sheet and let cool for 5 minutes.
  2. Return to a clean bowl and serve.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Customize with white cheddar, spicy seasonings, or truffle salt for variations.