Popcorn is a delicious and versatile snack. It is a whole grain that provides energy-producing complex carbohydrates and nutrients including zinc and B vitamins. It also contributes fiber to your diet for a satisfying treat that helps you feel fuller longer. And with only 31 calories per cup of air-popped popcorn, it will not derail your New Year’s resolution to get healthy. These tasty and clever recipes are easy to make, fun to eat, and are perfect for yummy snacking any time of day. For nutrition facts, visit popcorn.org.
Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray
- ½ cup honey
- ⅔ cup peanut butter
- 1 cup granola cereal
- 1 cup salted roasted peanuts
- 3 cups popped popcorn
Instructions
Line an 8- or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Spray parchment lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
In a large saucepan, heat honey until boiling. Stir in peanut butter until well blended.
Remove pan from heat and stir in granola, peanuts, and popcorn until coated.
Press mixture evenly into prepared pan. Refrigerate until cool; cut into bars to serve.
Makes 16 bars.
Cranberry and Chocolate Spiced Popcorn
Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
- 1 ½ tbsp coconut oil, melted
- ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 4 oz dark chocolate, melted
- ½ tsp coarse sea salt
Instructions
In large bowl, toss together popcorn, cranberries, pumpkin seeds, coconut oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Lay mixture flat on a parchment paper-lined tray. Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
Let stand at room temperature for about 20 minutes or until chocolate sets. Break apart into chunks.
Makes 8 cups.
Pizza Popcorn
Ingredients
- 24 cups popped popcorn
- olive oil cooking spray
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp garlic salt
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
Place popcorn in a large, sealable plastic container or in a 2 ½ gallon plastic sealable bag.
Spray popcorn lightly with cooking spray.
Sprinkle cheese, garlic salt, paprika, and Italian seasoning over popcorn and shake to distribute evenly.
To serve, scoop popcorn into individual bowls.
Makes 24 cups.
Photo courtesy of The Popcorn Board, recipes courtesy of The Popcorn Board
