Is jalapeño popcorn spicy?

Yes, jalapeño popcorn has a noticeable kick, but it’s totally customizable. Fresh jalapeños offer a mellow, smoky heat, while jalapeño powder or hot sauce brings sharper intensity. You can adjust the spice by removing seeds or using less chili.

How do you make jalapeño popcorn from scratch?

To make jalapeño popcorn from scratch, pop kernels in oil or an air popper, then toss them with a mixture of melted butter, lime zest, salt, and sautéed or powdered jalapeños. For an oil-free version, mist the popcorn and toss it with seasonings instead.

Can I make jalapeño popcorn without oil?

Absolutely. Use an air popper or microwave popcorn without added oil. To get the seasoning to stick, lightly mist the popcorn with water or lime juice, then toss with jalapeño powder, lime zest, and salt. It’s a lighter but still tasty version.

How do I store leftover spicy popcorn?

Let the popcorn cool fully before storing. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid the fridge—it adds moisture and ruins the crunch. For best results, store in small snack-sized bags to maintain freshness.

Jalapeño Popcorn Recipe: 5-Star Spicy Snack Guide

Description

A bold and spicy jalapeño popcorn recipe with roasted jalapeños, garlic butter, and lime zest. Perfect for movie night or party snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

½ cup popcorn kernels

2 tablespoons neutral oil (or use air popper)

2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter

1–2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced

½ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Zest of 1 lime

Sea salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan, add jalapeño slices, sauté until lightly crisped, then remove.

2. Add kernels to pan and pop with lid on.

3. Melt butter and mix in garlic powder, paprika, and lime zest.

4. Drizzle butter mix over popcorn and toss well.

5. Top with crispy jalapeño slices and season with sea salt.

Notes

For a lighter version, use jalapeño powder and air-popped kernels.

Add cheddar for a cheesy variation.

Store in airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Category: Snack
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 8mg