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.

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.

Is kettle corn keto friendly? ›

Most types of sugary and mass-produced popcorn such as movie theater popcorn, kettle corn, and microwave popcorn should be avoided on a standard ketogenic diet due to their high carbohydrate content and unhealthy additives.

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.

What does adding sugar to boiling water do? ›

Sugar is a non-volatile solute. Adding sugar to water will raise the boiling point and decrease the freezing point of water. The boiling point of liquid is influenced by the pressure. If the external pressure is less than one atmosphere, the boiling point of the liquid is lower than the standard boiling point.

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.

What is healthier kettle corn or regular popcorn? ›

Classic popcorn is mostly popped with oil and butter, while kettle popcorn is traditionally air-popped in an iron kettle. Regular popcorn is considered a healthy snack. While kettle popcorn has similar health benefits, you should watch the sugar.

Why is kettle corn so addictive? ›

The difference is how it's popped. Kettle corn is traditionally made in a large, iron kettle that has been oiled. The popcorn is popped before it is tossed with a little salt, and of course some sugar, to give it that addictive flavor. The oil from the iron kettle is what keeps the seasonings on the popped kernels.

Why is kettle corn good for you? ›

In addition to fiber, popcorn also is a good source of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that have been linked to better blood circulation and digestive health, as well as a potentially lower risk of certain cancers.

What makes kettle corn better? ›

Adding sugar to your mix during the cooking process is essential to crafting that perfect blend of sweet and savory taste. It's the flavor that has become a hallmark of kettle corn.

Can diabetics eat popcorn? ›

As long as it's not served with butter or salt, popcorn is considered a good whole-grain snack for diabetes (Asif, 2014). Popcorn is low in calories, which can support a healthy weight and overall management of type 2 diabetes.

Can dogs eat popcorn? ›

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.

Can I eat popcorn during weight loss? ›

Popcorn can indeed be a valuable addition to a weight loss diet. Its low-calorie, high-fibre, and whole-grain characteristics make it a filling and nutritious snack option. If you are looking to lose weight, it is essential to consume popcorn healthily, without excessive butter, oil, or sugar.

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.

Should you add sugar to the water when boiling corn? ›

Fill a large pot about 3/4 full of water and bring to a boil. Stir in sugar and lemon juice until sugar is dissolved. Gently place ears of corn into boiling water, cover the pot, turn off the heat, and let corn cook in the hot water until tender, about 10 minutes.

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.

Why does my popcorn always burn? ›

Regardless of how you pop your popcorn, it is important that you heat the kernels evenly. If you have your heat too high and don't agitate (or shake) your pan steadily, the kernels can be too still and you can burn one side of the kernel. That will mean your kernel will pop too early - or not pop at all. (Boo!)

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