If you’re already a fan of classic buttery popcorn like the one over on Enzo’s main popcorn recipe, you’re going to love this sweet twist. This Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn recipe blends warm spice with just the right amount of sweetness—perfect for cozy movie nights, festive gatherings, or an anytime treat. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make it step by step, and I’ll also answer some of the most common questions around making flavored popcorn at home. By the end, you’ll have a snack that might just outshine your usual favorites like kettle corn or caramel.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why cinnamon sugar popcorn is a must-make
The best thing about this Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn recipe is how versatile it is. It’s perfect for holiday snack boards, lunchbox treats, or a binge-watching marathon. Plus, it’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and smells absolutely amazing—like warm cookies baking in the oven.
If you’ve already checked out my buttered popcorn recipe or taken a crack at my kettle corn, you know I love simple snack recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. This one checks every box.
And hey, if you’re feeling bold, you can even toss in some chopped nuts, drizzle with white chocolate, or go full carnival-style like I did when testing it alongside caramel popcorn.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn Recipe At Home
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Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn Recipe: A Sweet & Easy Treat for Snack Lovers
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet, crunchy, and cozy, this Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn is perfect for movie nights or festive snack boards. Quick to make and addictively good.
Ingredients
½ cup popcorn kernels
3 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup granulated sugar
1½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp salt (optional)
Instructions
1. Pop the popcorn using your method of choice and place it in a large bowl.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Stir in the sugar and cinnamon while the butter is still warm.
4. Immediately pour the mixture over the popcorn.
5. Gently toss to coat all the popcorn evenly.
6. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Air-popped popcorn works great—just make sure to coat while hot.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Everything you need in your pantry already
One of my favorite things about this cinnamon sugar popcorn recipe is that you probably have every ingredient already sitting in your pantry. No syrups, no mystery powders—just real butter, ground cinnamon, sugar, and popcorn. That’s it. You can make it on the stovetop or with an air popper, but trust me, the stovetop version adds a little something extra. Here’s what you’ll need:
- ½ cup popcorn kernels
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional but recommended)
And if you’re a fan of flavor combos, try adding a drizzle of chocolate like I do in my chocolate drizzled popcorn—it’s a perfect contrast to the cinnamon.
Quick, delicious, and done in minutes
Start by popping the corn. If you’re using a stovetop, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat, add the kernels, and cover. Shake occasionally until popping slows to 1–2 seconds between pops. Remove from heat and transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl.
Next, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the sugar and cinnamon while the butter’s still hot so it blends smoothly. Pour this mixture over the warm popcorn, tossing gently to coat every piece.
If you’re into sweet and salty, add a pinch of sea salt or pair it with something savory like jalapeño popcorn. That contrast works incredibly well for movie nights or party snack boards.
Sweet Variations & Snack Pairings with Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn
Take it from good to unforgettable
Once you’ve nailed the classic cinnamon sugar popcorn recipe, it opens up a world of sweet snack possibilities. You can dress it up with toppings, mix-ins, or even turn it into dessert-style popcorn clusters. This recipe is surprisingly flexible—it pairs beautifully with ingredients from white chocolate to crushed cookies.
When I first tested a cookies-and-cream combo using crushed chocolate cookies, I was reminded of the magic in my cookies and cream popcorn recipe. The cinnamon added warmth that made it even more addictive.
Below is a quick table of sweet variations and pairing ideas you can try with your next batch:
| Variation | What to Add | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Churro Popcorn | Brown sugar, vanilla extract | Rich, caramel-like warmth |
| Birthday Popcorn | Rainbow sprinkles, white chocolate | Fun, festive, sweet |
| Fall Harvest Mix | Dried apples, pecans | Cozy, nutty, fruity |
Pair with your favorite snack blends
You don’t have to stop with sweet variations. This cinnamon sugar popcorn also pairs well with savory options for a complete snack board. Try setting it next to something bold like cheddar cheese popcorn, or use it to balance out the rich intensity of caramel popcorn.
FAQs About Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn
How do you get cinnamon to stick to popcorn?
The key is warm, melted butter. It helps bind the cinnamon and sugar evenly to the popcorn’s surface. Toss the popcorn while it’s still hot, and the butter mixture will cling beautifully without making it soggy. Air-popped popcorn works great too—just be sure to coat it quickly.
Can you make cinnamon sugar popcorn without butter?
Absolutely. If you’re dairy-free or just out of butter, you can substitute coconut oil or vegan butter. Just make sure the fat is warm enough to dissolve the cinnamon and sugar so you still get that even coating. For more ideas, check out buttered popcorn alternatives for inspiration.
Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe?
Yes—but go with plain or lightly salted microwave popcorn. Avoid buttery or flavored versions as they can clash with the cinnamon sugar coating. Once popped, transfer it to a bowl and toss with the cinnamon sugar mixture like you would with stovetop popcorn.
How do you store leftover cinnamon sugar popcorn?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh and crisp for up to 3 days. If it softens, you can re-crisp it in a 250°F oven for about 5 minutes. It also makes a fun gift when packed in clear treat bags—especially around the holidays or birthdays
Make It Once—Crave It Always
This cinnamon sugar popcorn recipe isn’t just easy—it’s a nostalgic, crave-worthy snack that hits the perfect balance between sweet and cozy. Whether you’re making it for movie night, a fall gathering, or just because you want something fun in the afternoon, it’s a guaranteed win.
I’m all about recipes that feel indulgent without being complicated, and this one’s been a favorite since I first recreated it from a carnival memory. Want more inspiration? Check out this classic version from Serena Bakes Simply From Scratch or explore the brown butter twist by Two Peas and Their Pod. Both are excellent ways to explore this flavor combo further.
And of course, you can always circle back to the main popcorn recipe page for even more creative twists.