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Delicious Red Velvet Popcorn is displayed as the featured image for this recipe.

Irresistible Red Velvet Popcorn

Elevate your snacking game with this Red Velvet Popcorn! Crunchy popcorn is coated in a rich, velvety chocolate flavor and finished with a tangy cream cheese drizzle. It's a beautiful and delicious treat perfect for movie nights, parties, or gifting.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon red food coloring gel recommended
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream, to adjust consistency
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot with lid
  • Medium saucepan
  • Medium bowl
  • Very large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatulas or large spoons
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixer (hand or stand)
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot with a lid, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
  2. Add 2-3 popcorn kernels to the pot. Cover and wait until they pop to test if the oil is hot enough.
  3. Remove the pot from the heat and add the remaining 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels. Cover and wait 30 seconds.
  4. Return the pot to medium heat. Gently shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning.
  5. Once the popping slows down to about 2-3 seconds between pops, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for a minute to ensure all the kernels have popped.
  6. Carefully pour the popcorn into a very large bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
  7. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, and corn syrup.
  8. Whisk in the cocoa powder, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and salt.
  9. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, continue to cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
  10. Immediately pour the red velvet mixture over the popped popcorn.
  11. Quickly and gently toss the popcorn to coat it evenly using two large spoons or spatulas.
  12. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  13. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
  14. Add the milk (or heavy cream), one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a drizzle-able consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  15. Drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the red velvet popcorn.
  16. Spread the coated popcorn in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to help it dry.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. To avoid soggy popcorn, work quickly while coating and spread the coated popcorn in a single layer to dry. For a thinner red velvet coating, add a teaspoon of water while cooking. Customize your popcorn by adding mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, chopped nuts, pretzel pieces, or red velvet emulsion.