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!

Follow Me

« 3 Ingredient Sugar Free Chocolate Bark

How to Use Greek Yogurt as a Substitute in Recipes »

About the Sugar Free Diva

A Reformed Sugar Addict turned author and restaurant owner.Learn how to make sugar free kettle corn using this recipe (5)The Sugar Free Diva is also a happy dog owner, chocolate lover, and discreet handbag hoarder.

Get Free Recipes in Your Email Box

Subscribe to the Sugar Free Diva Newsletter!
This email newsletter is sent to your mailbox three days a week. You are able to monitor your subscription by clicking on "preferences" at any time.

Get these Sugar Free Recipes while you are here!

Sugar Free Carrot Cake Muffins

Raspberry Oatmeal Bars- No Added Sugar

No Added Sugar Strawberry Tart

Sugar Free Cinnamon Roll Blondie Bars

Sugar Free Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Sugar Free Boston Cream Poke Cake

Homemade Sugar Free Chocolate Pudding

Sugar Free Sugar Cookie Bars

See More Recipes→

Did you make this recipe?

Be sure to tag me @thesugarfreediva on social media if you post any photos!

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.

Learn how to make sugar free kettle corn using this recipe (2024)

FAQs

How do you keep sugar from burning in kettle corn? ›

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Stir in popcorn kernels and sugar. Cover and shake the pot constantly to prevent sugar from burning.

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.

What is the healthiest popcorn seasoning? ›

10 Healthy Popcorn Toppings
  • Chili powder. ...
  • Cinnamon. ...
  • Nutritional yeast (aka nooch popcorn) ...
  • Ranch seasoning. ...
  • Pumpkin popcorn. ...
  • Light sweet popcorn. ...
  • Light Cheesy Popcorn. What better to add to popcorn than you guessed it… ...
  • Popcorn & 1/8 Cup Nuts. Add extra crunch and protein when you opt for nuts as a healthy popcorn topping.
Jan 6, 2024

What is the healthiest way to make popcorn? ›

For the healthiest results, pop your corn in an air popper or in the microwave. If using the microwave, put 1/4 cup of kernels in a paper bag, fold the top over twice, and microwave on high for about two minutes, or until the popping slows to about two seconds between pops.

How do you not burn sugar when cooking? ›

Once the sugar has melted, continue cooking it until it turns into a rich amber color. It should be removed from the heat source when it begins to smoke and foam a little around the edges. Burning most commonly occurs when the caramel is left for too long on the heat source or when the temperature is too high.

Where does kettle corn get its sweetness from? ›

Another key difference is kettle corn's use of sugar. Along with oil and salt, sugar is added to the kettle and requires constant stirring to avoid burning the sugar. A little bit more work for a little sweeter treat!

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.

How much sugar is in kettle corn 1 cup? ›

Region: US
ServingIngredientCalories
5.45 gramsvegetable oil48
5 gramssugar19
8 gair popped popcorn31
Nov 30, 2015

Is kettle corn bad for high cholesterol? ›

The good news is that lifestyle changes, medicines, and a healthy diet can all help lower cholesterol levels and minimize the risk of major medical issues. The sixteen best cholesterol-lowering snack brands include: Pop Corners Kettle Corn Popped Corn Snack. Simply 7 Sea Salt Quinoa Chips.

What is the best popcorn for diabetics? ›

Can a person with diabetes eat popcorn?
  • Lesser Evil Popcorn: the addition of coconut oil adds healthy fats to balance out the carbohydrate content of popcorn. ...
  • Olive Oil and Sea Salt Popcorn: non-GMO and popped with olive oil, I like this option for those looking to reduce their consumption of seed oils.
Sep 25, 2023

How to make popcorn taste good without adding calories? ›

These seasonings are low in calories and fat and provide a lot of flavor.
  1. Cinnamon.
  2. Cocoa powder.
  3. Chili powder.
  4. Minced lemon or lime zest.
  5. Garlic powder.
  6. Black pepper.
  7. Curry powder.
  8. Nutritional yeast.
Nov 2, 2020

Can dogs eat popcorn? ›

Dogs can eat popcorn as long as it's plain and air-popped popcorn, and only eaten in moderation. However, any added seasonings we love to slather on top which can be bad for dogs, and you shouldn't feed them this type of popcorn.

Can I eat popcorn every day? ›

Even though popcorn is healthy, it is possible to eat too much of it. Both dietitians say that eating an excessive amount of popcorn can lead to bloating, gas and constipation because of its high-fiber content—especially for people who aren't used to eating a lot of fiber.

Can you make popcorn in an air fryer? ›

To make air fryer popcorn, simply add 1/4 cup of popcorn kernels to the air fryer basket with aluminum foil. Make sure that the kernels are spread out in a single layer to ensure even popping. Close the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 400°F. After about 3 minutes, you'll start to hear the kernels pop.

How unhealthy is microwave popcorn? ›

Even so, microwave popcorn can be extremely high in saturated fat and sodium, both of which increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. To reduce your risk, either choose "light" microwave popcorn or use an air popper. You should also go light on the salt and butter, or skip them altogether. American Cancer Society.

How can you add sugar to popcorn without burning it? ›

The last try i did, I used a cast-iron pan, warmed it up on medium heat, and added vegetable oil and / or butter. Add the kernels, and once they start popping, quickly add some powdered sugar, cover, and shake the pan.

How do you boil sugar without burning it? ›

Place the pot on the stove over medium low heat.

Using low heat means the sugar will take awhile to melt, but don't be tempted to turn it up; sugar will quickly burn when cooked over higher heat. Using low heat gives you better control.

Why does my kettle corn always burn? ›

tips for the best kettle corn:

If you go too high, the sugar will burn and the popcorn will be chewy from popping too fast. Act fast. Get the kettle corn out of the hot pot as fast as you can, right when you hear the popping slow to 1- 2 seconds. The sugar will start to caramelize and burn in the hot pan.

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

Juicy fresh corn on the cob gets an extra boost of sweetness when it's cooked in slightly sweetened water. You can use as much or as little sugar as you like. Try it several ways to figure out what level of sweetness you like best.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Terence Hammes MD

Last Updated:

Views: 5533

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (49 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Terence Hammes MD

Birthday: 1992-04-11

Address: Suite 408 9446 Mercy Mews, West Roxie, CT 04904

Phone: +50312511349175

Job: Product Consulting Liaison

Hobby: Jogging, Motor sports, Nordic skating, Jigsaw puzzles, Bird watching, Nordic skating, Sculpting

Introduction: My name is Terence Hammes MD, I am a inexpensive, energetic, jolly, faithful, cheerful, proud, rich person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.