Classic Stovetop Popcorn

By Kids Cooking Activities

• Kid-Friendly Snack
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: About 12 cups popcorn

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
• ½ cup popcorn kernels
• 2–3 tablespoons butter, melted
• Salt or seasonings of choice

Instructions

1. Place a large saucepan or pot with a lid on the stove.
2. Add the oil and popcorn kernels to the pot.
3. Cover with a lid and heat over medium heat.
4. Gently shake the pan back and forth while heating.
5. Once the kernels begin popping, keep shaking the pot so the popcorn doesn’t burn.
6. When the popping slows to a few seconds between pops, remove from heat.
7. Pour the popcorn into a large bowl, drizzle with melted butter, and add salt or seasonings.

Kid Cooking Ideas

• Let kids measure the kernels and count the cups of popcorn after popping.
• Set up a “popcorn topping bar” with different seasonings to try.
• Use paper bags or cups for individual popcorn servings.

Flavor Ideas

• Sweet Cinnamon Sugar
• Cheddar Cheese Powder
• Garlic Parmesan
• Taco Seasoning
• Chocolate drizzle for dessert popcorn

Tips for Perfect Popcorn

• Use a pot large enough so the popcorn has room to expand.
• Shake the pot frequently to prevent burning.
• Listen carefully—when the popping slows, remove from heat.
• ½ cup kernels usually makes about 12–16 cups of popcorn.