My 1-Ingredient Upgrade for Popcorn Is Straight Out of a British Movie Theatre

It's simple and sweet.

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When I first moved to London, I spent a lot of time at movie theatres. It was a low-stakes way to get out of my flat, explore different neighborhoods, and feel less like a stranger in a brand-new city.

I immediately discovered that the UK's movie theatre popcorn was very different. In North America, our idea of perfect popcorn involves butter and salt, but across the pond, there's no butter in sight. You have the choice of popcorn with plain salt or a dusting of sugar. That's it!

I was skeptical at first, but sweet popcorn grew on me. There’s something nostalgic about crunchy, warm kernels dusted in sugar. It reminded me of kettle corn, but simpler. Before long, I was making my own version at home.

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How To Make Sweet Popcorn

You’ve got two easy options here, depending on how much time you have: microwave or stovetop.

1. Microwave Version

Follow the package instructions for microwaving a bag of plain popcorn (I love 365 by Whole Foods brand; grab the version without butter). Stop 10 to 15 seconds early to avoid scorching.

As soon as it’s done—while the kernels are still hot and steaming—toss in two teaspoons of granulated sugar. Give the bag a good shake so the sugar lightly melts and sticks to each piece.

2. Stovetop Version

In a large heavy-bottomed pot with a lid, heat a few tablespoons of neutral oil (like canola or grapeseed) over medium heat. Add a few kernels and cover. When they pop, add 1/3 cup of popcorn kernels and cover again. Shake the pot occasionally as the popcorn pops.

Once the popping slows to a few seconds between bursts, remove from the heat. Quickly sprinkle two teaspoons of sugar over the hot popcorn, replace the lid, and give the pot a good shake to coat the kernels evenly.

How to Zhush up Sweet Popcorn

Try sprinkling in one of these pantry staples along with the sugar. It's important to add the extras while the popcorn is hot so everything sticks.

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Sprinkle it over the popcorn at the same time as the sugar, and toss until coated for a warm, cozy flavor.
  
• 1 to 2 drops vanilla extract: Mix the vanilla into the sugar first to evenly distribute the flavor without making the popcorn soggy.
  
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar: Use half brown sugar and half white sugar, then sprinkle and toss as usual for a deeper, slightly caramelized sweetness.
• A pinch of salt: Flaky salts like Maldon work well, though any kind of salt will help balance out the sweetness.

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