Air fryers have become an incredibly popular kitchen appliance in recent years. Their ability to make crispy “fried” foods using little to no oil is very appealing to health-conscious cooks. So it’s natural to wonder – can you use an air fryer to pop popcorn?
The Short Answer
Yes, you can pop popcorn in an air fryer! Many models of air fryers reach temperatures high enough to pop popcorn kernels. However, results may vary depending on the specific model you have, the size of the basket, and how you prepare the kernels.
How Does Popcorn Pop?
Before we dive into air fryer popcorn methods, let’s look at how popcorn actually pops. Popcorn kernels contain a small amount of water stored inside. As the kernel is heated, this water expands and changes to steam. The strong steam pressure builds up inside until the kernel finally bursts open with a “pop!”
For the popcorn to successfully pop, the kernels need to reach temperatures of around 347°F to 465°F. They also need space to move around so the steam can expand and burst the kernel.
Do Air Fryers Get Hot Enough to Pop Corn?
Most standard air fryers reach maximum temperatures between 350°F and 400°F, which falls within popcorn’s ideal popping range. However, some smaller air fryer models may max out at lower temperatures around 300°F.
Here are typical temperature ranges for different air fryer models:
| Air Fryer Type | Typical Temperature Range |
|---|---|
| Large/Standard Size | 350°F – 400°F |
| Small/Compact Size | 300°F – 360°F |
| Toaster Oven Air Fryers | 350°F – 450°F |
As you can see, most standard or large size air fryers can reach the 347°F – 465°F popping range for popcorn. But smaller models may not get hot enough to pop every kernel.
Tips for Popping Popcorn in an Air Fryer
If you want to give air fryer popcorn a try, follow these tips for best results:
1. Use a large size air fryer
Make sure your model can reach at least 350°F temperatures. Smaller compact air fryers under 300°F may struggle.
2. Use 1/4 cup unpopped kernels
Don’t overfill the air fryer basket. Start with 1/4 cup unpopped kernels, which should make around 1 – 1 1/2 cups popped.
3. Use oil and seasonings (optional)
Spray kernels lightly with oil or melt a little butter to help them pop evenly. You can also toss with seasonings.
4. Preheat before adding kernels
Preheat the air fryer to at least 350°F before adding the kernels so it’s fully heated.
5. Frequently shake basket
Shake the air fryer basket every 30 seconds or so to keep kernels moving.
6. Remove immediately after popping slows
Once the popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, immediately remove the basket. Kernels can burn easily.
7. Repeat in batches for more
Most air fryers won’t hold more than 1-2 cups popped. Repeat with fresh batches for more.
Air Fryer Popcorn vs Microwave Popcorn
How does air fryer popcorn compare to traditional microwave popcorn? Here are a few key differences:
Microwave Popcorn Pros
- Very fast and convenient
- Minimal prep or clean up needed
- Special microwave bags designed to optimize popping
Air Fryer Popcorn Pros
- Avoid potential chemicals on microwave bags
- Can customize flavors by adding oils and seasonings
- “Healthier” perception from using air fryer
Air fryer popcorn takes more active prep and frequent shaking. But many people enjoy the flexibility to pick their own flavors and use “cleaner” popping methods.
Troubleshooting Air Fryer Popcorn
If you try popping popcorn in your air fryer but run into problems, here are some troubleshooting tips:
Problem: Kernels aren’t popping
- Ensure air fryer is preheated to at least 350°F first
- Use a thermometer to confirm air fryer temp if needed
- Try a different brand of popcorn kernel
- Add a bit of oil to help kernels pop
- Use a larger air fryer if yours can’t reach ideal temps
Problem: Kernels are burning
- Don’t overfill basket with too many kernels
- Shake basket more frequently while popping
- Remove finished popcorn immediately once popping slows
- Make sure air fryer isn’t overheated above 400°F
Problem: Too many unpopped kernels
- Try a higher heat around 380°F
- Preheat air fryer fully before adding kernels
- Spray or toss kernels with a bit of oil before cooking
- Avoid packing kernels into basket; leave space for popping
Air Fryer Popcorn Recipes
Once you get the basic air fryer popcorn technique down, try out these delicious flavor twist recipes:
Spicy Sriracha Popcorn
Toss popped corn with melted butter, Sriracha sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and lime juice. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Parmesan Rosemary Popcorn
Melt butter with minced garlic and rosemary. Toss with popped corn and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Sweet and Salty Popcorn
Top freshly popped corn with a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts or flaky sea salt.
Coconut Curry Popcorn
Melt coconut oil with Thai red curry paste, lime juice, brown sugar, and a pinch of cayenne. Toss with popped corn and toasted coconut flakes.
Taco Popcorn
Sprinkle popped corn with taco seasoning or chili powder/cumin blend. Add shredded cheese, chopped tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and cilantro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is air fryer popcorn actually healthy?
Air fryer popcorn can be healthier than microwave popcorn made with oils and artificial flavorings. But plain popped popcorn itself is already low calorie. The biggest benefit of air frying may simply be customizing flavors.
Do you need special popcorn kernels?
No special kernels are needed! Standard popcorn kernels you find in any grocery store will pop just fine in an air fryer.
How much popcorn will an air fryer make?
Most air fryer baskets can hold 1 – 2 cups of freshly popped popcorn, depending on size. You’ll need to make popcorn in batches for larger amounts.
Should popcorn kernels be soaked first?
There’s no need to soak or simmer kernels first before frying. Simply add dry kernels straight to the preheated air fryer.
Is coconut oil best for air fryer popcorn?
You can use any high smoke point oil to lightly coat the kernels, such as coconut, avocado, grapeseed, or vegetable oil. A little oil helps kernels pop evenly.
Conclusion
Popping popcorn in an air fryer is absolutely possible, as long as your model can reach temperatures above 347°F. For best results, preheat thoroughly, frequently shake the basket, and remove popped corn immediately to prevent burning. Feel free to customize flavors with spices, oils, and creative toppings!
Compared to packaged microwave popcorn, air popped popcorn lets you control ingredients and flavors. Just be prepared for a little more hands-on effort. But the end result is fresh, hot popcorn bursting with the seasonings of your choice.