Delicious Chocolate Covered Popcorn

This indulgent chocolate covered popcorn has become my go-to treat whenever I need something sweet yet light. The perfect balance of salty and sweet, with rich dark chocolate coating every crispy kernel, creates an irresistible snack that disappears within minutes at any gathering.

I first made this chocolate covered popcorn during a movie night with friends, and it's now requested at every get-together. The combination of warm, freshly popped kernels with melted chocolate creates a texture contrast that's absolutely addictive.

Ingredients

• Popcorn kernels: Fresh kernels yield the best flavor and texture compared to microwave varieties
• Salt: Enhances both the popcorn flavor and creates the perfect sweet-savory balance
• Dark chocolate: Choose high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao for richer flavor
• Coconut oil: Helps thin the chocolate for easier drizzling while adding subtle tropical notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pop the Popcorn:

Select your preferred popping method whether air popping, using a dedicated popper, or stovetop method. For stovetop preparation, heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot with a tight-fitting lid, add kernels, and shake frequently over medium heat until popping slows to several seconds between pops.

Prepare the Popcorn:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Spread freshly popped popcorn in an even layer across the parchment, allowing steam to escape and ensuring crispness. Sprinkle salt evenly over the warm popcorn to help it adhere better.

Melt the Chocolate:

Break dark chocolate into small pieces and combine with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each interval until completely smooth. The mixture should be thin enough to drizzle but not watery.

Drizzle and Set:

Using a fork or spoon, drizzle the melted chocolate mixture back and forth across the popcorn. For more thorough coverage, gently toss with a spatula midway through the drizzling process. Allow to set at room temperature for 30 minutes until chocolate hardens completely.

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Dark chocolate is absolutely the star of this recipe. I once tried making this with milk chocolate, but the dark variety creates a sophisticated flavor that balances perfectly with the salt. My daughter now specifically asks for "Mommy's special chocolate popcorn" instead of candy when we have movie nights.

Quick Variations

Switching up this basic recipe creates entirely new flavor experiences. Try white chocolate with crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a fruity twist, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon and cayenne to the dark chocolate for Mexican-inspired heat. For special occasions, I incorporate edible gold dust or colored sprinkles for a festive appearance.

Storage Solutions

Properly stored chocolate covered popcorn maintains its texture and flavor for up to one week. Keep it in airtight containers or sealed bags in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent chocolate from melting. For gift-giving, portion into cellophane bags tied with decorative ribbons or fill mason jars with tight-fitting lids.

Healthier Alternatives

For a more nutritious version, substitute the dark chocolate with carob chips which contain no caffeine and fewer fats. Another option is using cacao nibs mixed with a small amount of maple syrup for natural sweetness. You can also reduce calories by using less chocolate and adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder to maintain chocolate flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Transform this simple treat into an elegant dessert by serving in paper cones for parties or using as a topping for ice cream sundaes. For a complete dessert table, pair with fresh berries and whipped coconut cream. During holiday seasons, I arrange it in clear glass containers alongside nuts and dried fruits for an impressive display that guests can't resist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this popcorn without coconut oil?

Yes, you can melt the chocolate on its own. While coconut oil helps make the drizzle smoother, it is optional.

→ How do I store chocolate-covered popcorn?

Store the popcorn in an airtight container or resealable bags at room temperature to maintain freshness.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate works perfectly, though it may result in a sweeter flavor profile.

→ Is this snack suitable for vegans?

Yes, as long as you choose vegan dark chocolate, this snack is completely vegan-friendly.

→ How do I prevent stale popcorn?

Ensure your popcorn is fresh before coating, and store it immediately after the chocolate sets in airtight containers.

→ Can I add other toppings to the popcorn?

Of course! Consider adding crushed nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut before the chocolate sets for extra variety.