Irresistible Cherry Popcorn Recipe: A Sweet & Decadent Treat
Prepare to delight your taste buds with this sensational Cherry Popcorn recipe – a truly irresistible homemade treat that captures the essence of a beloved classic. Inspired by the iconic Australian Cherry Ripe chocolate bar, this gourmet popcorn delivers a symphony of sweet cherry flavor, luxurious chocolate drizzle, tropical coconut, and real candied cherries in every single bite. It’s an explosion of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
Whether you’re looking for a unique snack to share, a memorable party favor, or a festive homemade gift for holidays and birthdays, this cherry popcorn is an absolute winner. Pack it into charming Mason jars for an instant present that’s sure to impress. Just a word of caution: make extra, because your family might just devour it all before you get a chance to share!
This recipe transforms ordinary popcorn into an extraordinary confection, perfect for any occasion. The vibrant red hue, coupled with the rich chocolate and white coconut flakes, makes it visually stunning and incredibly appetizing. It’s a fun and relatively simple project that yields impressive results, making it ideal for both seasoned bakers and casual snack makers.
🍒 Essential Ingredients for Your Cherry Popcorn Masterpiece
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards creating this delightful treat. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to make this vibrant and flavorful cherry popcorn:
- 6 cups popped popcorn: Start with freshly popped, unseasoned popcorn. Air-popped or stovetop popcorn works best, ensuring a neutral base for our sweet flavors. Avoid microwave popcorn with added butter or salt, as it can interfere with the syrup coating.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: The foundation of our sweet cherry candy coating, providing a crisp texture and sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps dissolve the sugar and forms the base for our candy syrup.
- ½ tablespoon light corn syrup: Crucial for preventing the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth and glossy coating for your popcorn.
- Pinch of salt: A small amount of salt enhances all the sweet flavors, balancing the overall taste profile.
- ⅛ teaspoon cherry extract: This is where the intense cherry flavor comes from. For an even more potent punch, consider using 2-3 drops of a super-strength flavoring concentrate. Quality extract makes a significant difference!
- Dab of red gel food coloring: Essential for achieving that beautiful, vibrant red color characteristic of cherries. Gel food coloring provides a much richer hue without adding excess liquid, which can dilute your syrup.
- ¾ cup chocolate candy melts: These melts are designed for easy melting and a smooth finish, perfect for drizzling. Alternatively, you can use about 3 cubes of chocolate almond bark.
- ½ cup chopped Mounds bars: These coconut and dark chocolate bars provide the authentic “Cherry Ripe” texture and flavor. Roughly chop them for delightful chunks throughout the popcorn. If Mounds bars are unavailable, any dark chocolate and coconut combination will work.
- ½ cup candied cherry halves: These add bursts of real cherry flavor and a chewy texture. Make sure to pat them completely dry before adding to prevent moisture from affecting the popcorn’s crispness. Look for the glace cherries used in fruitcakes, often found in the baking aisle.
- ¼ cup shredded toasted coconut: Toasted coconut adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a lovely crunch, complementing the chocolate and cherry perfectly. You can buy it pre-toasted or toast your own lightly in a dry skillet or oven until golden brown.
A printable recipe card with precise measurements and instructions is available at the end of this guide. This will ensure you have all the details at your fingertips as you create your Cherry Popcorn masterpiece.
Selecting Your Popcorn and Flavoring
When it comes to popcorn, I typically opt for popping plain kernels in the microwave, which is quick and easy. However, feel free to use a traditional stovetop method, or even try an air fryer for a healthy, oil-free option. The key is to have freshly popped, unseasoned popcorn ready before you start the candying process.
For the red coloring, gel food coloring is highly recommended as it delivers the most vibrant and rich red hue without altering the syrup’s consistency. If gel coloring isn’t available, liquid coloring can be used in a pinch, though you might need a bit more to achieve the desired intensity.
The candied cherries, often referred to as glace cherries, are typically found in the baking aisle. These are the same type of cherries commonly used in fruitcakes and other confections. Ensuring they are patted completely dry is crucial to prevent any moisture from making your popcorn soggy.
Essential Tools for Success
Before you dive into the delicious fun, gather a few key pieces of equipment to make the process smooth and enjoyable:
- Small pot: For preparing the candy syrup. A heavy-bottomed pot helps prevent burning.
- Instant-read thermometer: Absolutely essential for accurately monitoring the syrup temperature. This ensures your candy coating sets perfectly and achieves the desired crispness.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Crucial for spreading the coated popcorn to dry without sticking. It also makes cleanup a breeze.
- Large mixing bowl: To combine the popcorn with the candy syrup.
- Whisk and spatula: For stirring the syrup and mixing the popcorn.
Having these tools ready will streamline your popcorn-making process and help you achieve perfectly candied cherry popcorn every time.
🍿 How to Make Delicious Cherry Popcorn: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this gourmet cherry popcorn is an exciting process that’s easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch:
Prepare the Cherry Candy Syrup
In a small, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the granulated sugar, water, light corn syrup, and a pinch of salt. Place the pot over medium heat, stirring the mixture constantly until the sugar dissolves. Continue to heat the syrup, stirring occasionally, until it reaches precisely 270°F (132°C) on your instant-read thermometer. This specific temperature is critical for candying the popcorn correctly, ensuring a crisp, not sticky, coating. Do not rush this step; accurate temperature control is key to a successful candy coating.
Infuse with Cherry Flavor and Color
Once the syrup hits the target temperature of 270°F (132°C), immediately remove the pot from the heat. Working quickly, whisk in the cherry extract and the dab of red gel food coloring. The color will instantly bloom, turning your syrup into a vibrant, enticing cherry red. The extract will also release its wonderful aroma, signaling the deliciousness to come. Be careful as the mixture will be very hot.
Coat and Dry the Popcorn
Pour the hot cherry syrup over your prepared popcorn in a large mixing bowl. Stir quickly and thoroughly to ensure every kernel is evenly coated with the vibrant red syrup. This step requires speed, as the syrup will begin to set rapidly once it cools. Once coated, spread the popcorn in a single layer onto a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Allow it to cool and dry completely at room temperature. As it dries, the coating will harden, giving the popcorn its signature crispiness.
Melt the Chocolate
While your cherry-coated popcorn is drying, it’s time to prepare the chocolate drizzle. Melt the chocolate candy melts according to the package directions. My preferred method is using a microwave: heat at 50% power for 1 minute, then stir well. Continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until the chocolate is completely smooth and fluid. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize or burn.
Add the Toppings
Once the chocolate is melted, drizzle it generously over the dried cherry popcorn. Immediately after drizzling, and while the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle on the chopped Mounds bars, candied cherry halves, and toasted coconut. The warm chocolate will act as a “glue,” ensuring all the delicious toppings adhere to the popcorn. Distribute them as evenly as possible for a perfect bite every time.
Final Drying and Enjoyment
Allow the popcorn to dry completely at room temperature. This will let the chocolate set and the toppings adhere firmly. Once fully dry, break the popcorn into delightful clumps and serve! The combination of crisp cherry popcorn, rich chocolate, chewy candied cherries, and toasted coconut creates an unforgettable snack that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Storage Tips for Freshness
To keep your cherry popcorn fresh and crisp, store it in airtight glass jars or food-safe plastic bags. Make sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing. If you plan to store it for more than a couple of days, consider adding a food-safe moisture absorber packet to the container. This will help maintain the crispness of both the popcorn and the coconut, preventing them from becoming stale or sticky.
There’s no need to refrigerate this popcorn; it’s best stored at a cool room temperature. Be mindful that excessive heat can cause the chocolate to melt and make the popcorn sticky, so avoid direct sunlight or warm environments. Stored properly, your cherry popcorn will remain a delicious treat for several days.
Gifting Your Homemade Cherry Popcorn
This vibrant cherry popcorn makes a fantastic homemade gift. For a truly special presentation, layer the popcorn in clear Mason jars and adorn them with festive ribbons or personalized tags. It’s a thoughtful and delicious present for holidays, birthdays, host gifts, or just a sweet gesture to show appreciation. The striking colors and unique flavor profile make it a standout gift that recipients will surely remember and enjoy.
Watch How to Make It!
Cherry Popcorn Recipe
Summer Yule
Print Recipe
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Ingredients
- 6 cups popped popcorn
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1 pinch salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cherry extract (or 2-3 drops super strength flavoring)
- 1 dab red gel food coloring
- ¾ cup chocolate candy melts (or 3 cubes of this chocolate almond bark)
- ½ cup chopped Mounds bars (4 snack-size bars)
- ½ cup candied cherry halves (patted completely dry)
- ¼ cup shredded toasted coconut
Love this recipe? Please leave a comment below 😊
Instructions
- Put the sugar, water, corn syrup, and salt in a small pot. Bring it to 270°F (132°C) on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently. It’s important to get the syrup to the right temperature in order to candy the popcorn. This ensures a crisp, non-sticky coating.
- After it reaches the right temperature, take the syrup off the heat and quickly whisk in the cherry extract and food coloring. Work swiftly as the syrup will begin to cool and set.
- Quickly stir the syrup into the popcorn in a large bowl (it hardens fast), then spread the popcorn out on parchment paper to dry completely. Ensure an even layer for best results.
- While the popcorn is drying, melt the chocolate candy melts according to the package directions. Use a microwave or double boiler, being careful not to overheat.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the popcorn and immediately sprinkle on the chopped Mounds bars, candied cherry halves, and toasted coconut. Let the popcorn fully dry until the chocolate is set, then break it into clumps and enjoy.
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Equipment
- Pot
- Kitchen Thermometer
- Parchment Paper
Notes
💭 Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule
This is a level 3 recipe (weight maintenance and active lifestyles). Popcorn starts off as a wholesome whole grain snack, but this version is loaded with sugar from candy, syrup, and chocolate melts, so it’s definitely a fun treat meant for sharing.
Nutrition information is for one serving.
nutrition info disclaimer
All recipes on this website may or may not be appropriate for you, depending on your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician if you need help determining the dietary pattern that may be best for you.
The nutrition information is an estimate provided as a courtesy. It will differ depending on the specific brands and ingredients that you use. Calorie information on food labels may be inaccurate, so please don’t sweat the numbers too much.
“To taste” means to your preferences, which may have to be visual to follow food safety rules. Please don’t eat undercooked food x
Nutrition
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💡 Tips for Perfect Cherry Popcorn
- Popcorn Quality: Always use fresh, good-quality popcorn kernels. Stale kernels won’t pop as well and can result in chewy, rather than crisp, popcorn.
- Syrup Temperature: The 270°F (132°C) temperature is crucial. An instant-read thermometer is your best friend here. If the syrup doesn’t reach this temperature, the coating will be sticky; if it goes too high, it might burn or become brittle.
- Work Quickly: The cherry syrup sets very fast once removed from heat and combined with popcorn. Have all your ingredients prepped and ready, and be prepared to mix and spread rapidly.
- Even Coating: Use a large bowl and a sturdy spatula to ensure every piece of popcorn is coated with the cherry syrup. Even coating guarantees consistent flavor and texture.
- Toasting Coconut: If your shredded coconut isn’t pre-toasted, spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Watch it carefully as it can burn quickly.
- Chocolate Tempering (Optional): While candy melts are designed for easy use, if you’re using real chocolate, tempering it will give you a glossier finish and prevent blooming (white streaks). For this recipe’s casual nature, candy melts are perfectly suitable.
- Patience is Key: Allow the popcorn ample time to dry after both the syrup and chocolate applications. Rushing this step can lead to a sticky mess.
🔄 Variations and Customizations
This cherry popcorn recipe is fantastic as is, but don’t hesitate to get creative with variations:
- Chocolate Choices: Experiment with white chocolate, milk chocolate, or even a mix of dark and milk chocolate for the drizzle.
- Nutty Additions: Sprinkle in some chopped almonds, cashews, or pecans along with the Mounds bars and cherries for added crunch and flavor.
- Other Candies: Instead of Mounds bars, consider other chocolate-coconut candies, or even finely chopped maraschino cherries for a different twist.
- Zesty Kick: A tiny bit of orange or lemon zest can brighten the cherry flavor.
- Spiced Version: A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom can add a warm, complex note to the cherry syrup.
- Non-Alcoholic Cherry Flavor: If cherry extract isn’t available, you can use a few drops of maraschino cherry juice for a milder cherry flavor, adjusting the amount to taste.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh cherries instead of candied cherries?
While fresh cherries are delicious, they contain too much moisture for this recipe. Using fresh cherries would make the popcorn soggy and prevent the candy coating from setting properly. Candied cherries are specifically chosen for their preserved state and chewy texture, which works perfectly here.
How long does this cherry popcorn last?
When stored in an airtight container at cool room temperature, this cherry popcorn will stay fresh and crisp for up to 3-5 days. Beyond that, the popcorn might start to lose its crispness and the coconut could become less flavorful.
Can I make this popcorn ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! This cherry popcorn is an excellent make-ahead snack. Prepare it 1-2 days before your event and store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This allows you to focus on other party preparations.
Why is my popcorn sticky?
Stickiness usually occurs if the candy syrup didn’t reach the correct temperature (270°F/132°C). If the syrup is undercooked, it won’t harden properly. Ensure you use an accurate instant-read thermometer and don’t rush the cooking process. High humidity can also contribute to stickiness, so store it in a cool, dry place.
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of candy melts or almond bark?
You can, but be aware that regular chocolate chips might not melt as smoothly or set as quickly and firmly as candy melts or almond bark. If using chocolate chips, you might need to add a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening per cup of chocolate chips to achieve a better drizzling consistency and help it set.
👩🍳 More Delicious Popcorn Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed this delightful cherry popcorn, you’ll love exploring other creative ways to transform simple popcorn into gourmet treats. Here are a few more recipes to inspire your next snack adventure:
- Lemon Pie Popcorn Recipe: A bright and zesty popcorn that tastes just like lemon meringue pie!
- Maple Popcorn Recipe: Indulge in the rich, caramel-like sweetness of maple-infused popcorn, perfect for autumn evenings.
- Ninja Foodi Popcorn Recipe: Discover how to make perfectly crisp and savory popcorn with a unique za’atar seasoning, ideal for those who prefer a less sweet snack.
We hope you thoroughly enjoy making and sharing this extraordinary Cherry Popcorn. It’s more than just a snack; it’s an experience that brings joy with every crunchy, sweet, and chocolatey bite. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your creations with us!