Cheese Popcorn Recipe (Homemade, with Cheese Powder) | Kitchn

Start by popping a batch of plain popcorn. This can be done according to your preference — on the stovetop, in a popcorn maker, or in an air popper all work great. Next, melt some butter to help the cheese stick. Finally, coat the popcorn with the butter followed by the cheese powder or blend of your choice.Heat 2 tablespoons high-heat cooking oil in a 3-quart heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place 2 or 3 popcorn of the popcorn kernels into the oil, cover, and wait for the kernels to pop, about 4 minutes. When these tester kernels pop, it is an indication that the oil has reached the correct temperature for popping.With your hands in the oven mitts, arrange the lid so it is ever so slightly ajar from the pan. This will allow some steam to vent, resulting in crispier popcorn. Return the pan to the heat and gently shake the pan continuously over the burner. Continue to move the pan back and forth as the kernels pop. Once the popping slows and there are several seconds between pops (after about 3 minutes), remove the pan from the heat. Pour the popcorn into a large bowl.Pour half the butter over the popcorn in the bowl and toss to combine. Add the remaining butter and toss again. Immediately sprinkle the cheese mixture over the popcorn, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing after each addition to evenly coat each popped kernel.Internationally recognized culinary authority Kristina Vänni is a well-known food writer, engaging TV host, award-winning recipe developer, food stylist, and photographer. In addition to writing for industry-leading websites including Better Homes and Gardens, The Spruce Eats, and Food52, she has been a featured expert on national media such as ABC News’ “World News Tonight” and CBS’ “The Talk” and has served as a spokesperson and recipe developer for national brands such as Finlandia, KitchenAid, Post Foods, Baileys, among many others. Kristina is currently writing her first cookbook, an exploration of the traditional and seasonal cuisine from her family’s dairy farm in Finland. Kristina enthusiastically shares her creative content, behind-the-scenes peeks, and industry expertise with food enthusiasts on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.