This irresistible Peanut Butter Popcorn combines two beloved snacks into one addictive treat that’s ready in just 13 minutes. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or afternoon snacking, this sweet and salty creation delivers a satisfying crunch while packing 7g of protein per serving.
The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients to create this crowd-pleasing snack that both kids and adults will reach for again and again.
Ingredients Section
- Popcorn: 10-11 cups freshly popped kernels, ensure they’re warm and ready
- Honey: 1 cup, pure and golden
- Granulated Sugar: 2/3 cup, helps create the perfect sticky coating
- Creamy Peanut Butter: 1 cup, room temperature for better mixing
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, adds wonderful aroma
- Reese’s Pieces: 1-2 cups, optional but adds extra peanutty crunch
Instructions Section
- Prepare Base: Pop your popcorn until fluffy and transfer to an extra-large mixing bowl for easy coating
- Create Sauce Base: Combine honey and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring until well mixed
- Boil Mixture: Let the mixture come to a boil and continue cooking for 2 minutes while stirring constantly
- Add Peanut Butter: Remove from heat and mix in peanut butter and vanilla until silky smooth
- Combine Components: Pour half the peanut butter sauce over popcorn, stir gently to coat, then add more sauce to reach desired coverage
- Final Touches: Sprinkle Reese’s pieces if desired, let cool for a few minutes before enjoying your treat
Quick Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Popcorn
The magic happens in the peanut butter sauce! Keep a close eye on your boiling honey mixture – those 2 minutes are just right for the perfect consistency. If you notice the sauce getting too thick when you’re mixing it with the popcorn, warm it up for a few seconds to make it easier to stir.
Mix It Up: Fun Variations
Love sweet and salty? Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top! You can swap regular peanut butter for crunchy style to add extra texture.
For chocolate lovers, try dark chocolate chips instead of Reese’s Pieces, or go wild and add both! Mini marshmallows make an amazing addition too – just toss them in while the popcorn’s still warm.
Storage Tips
This yummy treat will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To keep the pieces from sticking together, add a sheet of wax paper between layers.
The popcorn might get a bit softer over time, but it’ll still taste amazing! For the best snacking experience, enjoy it within the first day while it’s perfectly crispy.
Serving Ideas
Package this popcorn in clear cellophane bags tied with pretty ribbons for an adorable homemade gift. It’s perfect for movie nights, party snack tables, or after-school treats.
Want to make it extra special? Serve it in paper cones for a fun carnival feel, or set up a topping bar with extra candies and let everyone customize their own bowl!
Peanut Butter Popcorn
Equipment
- extra large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
Ingredients
Popcorn Base
- 10-11 cups popped popcorn
Peanut Butter Sauce
- 1 cup honey
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 cups Reese’s pieces optional
Instructions
- Pop popcorn and add to an extra large mixing bowl.
- In medium saucepan over medium heat add honey and sugar and stir well to combine. Bring to a boil then boil for 2 minutes, stirring. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Slowly pour HALF of the peanut butter sauce over the popcorn and gently stir to coat. Drizzle more peanut butter sauce, until your desired coating is reached (you may not use it all, depending on preference). Add Reese’s pieces, chocolate chips or other candy, if desired. Allow to cool for a few minutes before eating.
