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Cheesy Popcorn Mix with Dried Fruit

Cheesy Popcorn Mix with Dried Fruit

Snack
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
25min
Servings
5
Calories
285
Chef's Note

The key to perfect cheesy popcorn is adding the cheese mixture while the popcorn is still warm, but not hot enough to make the cheese clumpy. For a variation, try using different dried fruits like mangoes or blueberries. You can also substitute nutritional yeast for some of the cheese powder for a dairy-free version with a similar cheesy flavor.

Tags
kid-friendly
vegetarian
sweet and savory
movie night
make ahead
Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup popcorn kernels

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 3 tablespoons white cheddar cheese powder

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries

  • 1/3 cup dried apricots, diced

  • 1/3 cup golden raisins

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions
  • 1

    In a large, heavy-bottomed pot with a lid, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

  • 2

    Add 3 popcorn kernels to the oil and cover. When these test kernels pop, the oil is hot enough.

  • 3

    Add the remaining popcorn kernels, cover the pot, and remove from heat for 30 seconds (this helps all kernels reach the same temperature).

  • 4

    Return the pot to medium-high heat. Once popping begins, gently shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning. When popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, remove from heat.

  • 5

    In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the honey and stir until combined.

  • 6

    Transfer the popped popcorn to a large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.

  • 7

    Drizzle half of the butter-honey mixture over the popcorn and toss to coat.

  • 8

    In a small bowl, mix together the white cheddar cheese powder, grated Parmesan, sea salt, and garlic powder.

  • 9

    Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture over the popcorn and toss gently to distribute.

  • 10

    Repeat with the remaining butter mixture and cheese mixture, tossing after each addition to ensure even coating.

  • 11

    Add the dried cranberries, diced apricots, and golden raisins to the popcorn mixture and toss gently to combine.

  • 12

    Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let cool for 10 minutes to allow the cheese to set.

  • 13

    Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Information (per serving)
285
Calories
5g
Protein
32g
Carbs
16g
Fat

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