6 Best Oils For Popping Popcorn On Stove in 2024

Popcorn is a favorite snack for many, and making it on the stovetop is a classic method that can create delicious results. But what’s the best oil to use for stovetop popcorn? The answer to this question is crucial to the flavor and texture of your popcorn.

One of the best oils for popping popcorn on the stove is canola oil. It has a high smoke point and a neutral taste, making it a perfect choice for stovetop popcorn. Another great option is coconut oil, which has a mild, nutty flavor that can add a unique taste to your popcorn.

Some people prefer to use avocado oil for popcorn as it is a healthier option with a high smoke point. However, it can be pricier than other oils. You can also use peanut oil, which has a bold flavor that can complement the popcorn’s taste.

Best Oil for Popcorn on Stove: Buying Guide

With so many options available, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. Here is a buying guide to help you make an informed decision on the best oil for popping popcorn on the stove.

Smoke Point: The smoke point is the temperature at which the oil begins to smoke and break down. Look for an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola oil, avocado oil, or grapeseed oil, to ensure that your popcorn doesn’t have a burnt taste.

Flavor: The oil you choose can affect the taste of your popcorn. Some oils have a neutral flavor, while others, like coconut oil or olive oil, can add a distinct taste to your popcorn.

Health Benefits: Consider the health benefits of the oil you choose. For example, avocado oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels.

Popcorn to Oil Ratio: The right popcorn to oil ratio is crucial for achieving the perfect popcorn. The recommended ratio is 3 tablespoons of oil to 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels.

Type of Pot: The type of pot you use can affect the oil you choose. Stainless steel and aluminum pots are ideal for high-temperature cooking and work well with oils that have a high smoke point.

Non-GMO and Gluten-Free: For those with dietary restrictions, look for oils that are non-GMO and gluten-free.

Package Size: Depending on how often you make popcorn, consider the size of the oil container you purchase. A larger container may be more economical if you make popcorn frequently.

Review of the Best Oils For Popping Popcorn On Stove-

1: Orville Redenbacher’s Popping & Topping Buttery Flavored Oil

This delicious oil is the perfect way to cook up a batch of delicious, fluffy popcorn right on your stove top. Made with high-quality ingredients and featuring a rich, buttery flavor, this oil is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

One of the things that makes Orville Redenbacher’s Popping & Topping Buttery Flavored Oil so great is its versatility. Not only is it perfect for cooking popcorn on the stove top, but it can also be used to add delicious, buttery flavor to all sorts of dishes, from vegetables to pasta to rice.

Another great thing about this oil is that it is keto-friendly, so you can enjoy a delicious, buttery flavor without compromising your diet.

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Pros:

• The delicious, buttery flavor
• Versatile, can be used in a variety of dishes
• Keto-friendly
• High-quality ingredients
• Pack of 6 provides a good value for the price

Cons:

• May lack of flavor

2: Paragon Coconut Popcorn Popping Oil (Gallon)

When it comes to popping popcorn, the oil you choose can make a big difference in the final flavor and texture of your snack. If you’re looking for the best oil for popping popcorn, consider Paragon Coconut Popcorn Popping Oil.

This high-quality oil is specially formulated to provide the perfect balance of flavor and texture, making it the ideal choice for all your popcorn needs.

This means that it can withstand high temperatures without burning, resulting in perfectly popped kernels every time. The oil is also made with pure coconut oil, which adds a delicious, tropical flavor to your popcorn.

Another great thing about this oil is that it is made with all-natural ingredients and contains no trans fats or added preservatives. This makes it a healthier option than many other popcorn oils on the market.

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Pros:

• High smoke point for perfectly popped kernels
• Delicious, tropical coconut flavor
• All-natural ingredients with no trans fats or preservatives
• Large gallon size provides plenty of oil for multiple batches
• Great value for the price

Cons:

• Some customers have reported that the oil has a strong coconut flavor that can be overpowering

3: Dutchman’s Popcorn Coconut Oil | Butter Flavored Oil, 30oz Jar

If you’re looking for the best oil for making popcorn on the stove, you can’t go wrong with Dutchman’s Popcorn Coconut Oil. This high-quality oil is specially formulated to provide the perfect combination of flavor and texture, resulting in delicious, theater-style popcorn every time.

One of the things that sets Dutchman’s Popcorn Coconut Oil apart is its buttery flavor, which is achieved using natural beta-carotene. This gives the oil a rich, buttery taste without any of the unhealthy trans fats that are often found in butter-flavored oils.

Being delicious, Dutchman’s Popcorn Coconut Oil is also a healthy choice. It contains no trans fats and is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, it is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re putting into your body.

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Pros:

• Delicious, buttery flavor without unhealthy trans fats
• Made with natural beta-carotene for a healthier option
• Gluten-free and vegan
• High-quality ingredients made in the USA
• 30oz jar provides plenty of oil for multiple batches

Cons:

• May flavor too strong for some
• A few customers have experienced that it does not make the popcorn taste buttery

4: Snappy Pop Rite Popcorn Oil, 1 gallon

Snappy Pop Rite Popcorn Oil is the perfect choice for those who love to enjoy their popcorn with a unique taste. This high-quality popcorn oil is made from premium quality ingredients and is designed to enhance the taste of your popcorn to perfection. It has a high smoke point, making it ideal for popping popcorn on the stove.

Snappy Pop Rite Popcorn Oil comes in a convenient 1-gallon jug, ensuring that you have enough oil for multiple batches of popcorn.

One of the standout features of Snappy Pop Rite Popcorn Oil is its ability to produce popcorn with a light, crispy texture that is perfect for snacking. The oil is also cholesterol-free and contains zero trans-fat, making it a healthy option for popcorn lovers.

It has a neutral flavor that does not overpower the taste of the popcorn, allowing you to fully enjoy the delicious flavors of your favorite toppings.

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Pros:

• High smoke point for stove-top popcorn popping
• Cholesterol-free and contains zero trans-fat
• Neutral flavor enhances the taste of popcorn
• Convenient 1-gallon jug
• Produces light and crispy texture popcorn

Cons:

• A bit expensive
• A few customers have experienced leaks during shipping

5: Snappy Buttery Canola Popcorn Oil, 1 Gallon, 4 Pack

Snappy Buttery Canola Popcorn Oil is an excellent option for making delicious popcorn on the stovetop. This oil is made from pure canola oil and has a buttery flavor that adds a rich taste to your popcorn. It is a healthier option than other oils and contains zero grams of trans fat. This product comes in a pack of 4, which is perfect for families or frequent popcorn lovers.

One of the unique features of this product is that it is infused with beta-carotene, which gives your popcorn a nice golden color. It also has a high smoke point, which means that it can be used for high-heat cooking methods without burning. Another great feature of this oil is that it is easy to measure and pour with the help of a convenient handle.

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Pros:

• Infused with beta-carotene for a nice golden color
• Butter flavor adds richness to popcorn
• Zero grams of trans fat
• High smoke point for high-heat cooking
• Convenient handle for easy pouring

Cons:

• A few customers received damaged or leaking bottles

6: Amish Country Popcorn Stovetop Popping Sampler Pack with Canola Oil and ButterSalt

Looking for an all-in-one solution for your stovetop popcorn needs? The Amish Country Popcorn Stovetop Popping Sampler Pack has got you covered! This pack includes 8 bags of popcorn kernels, 16 oz of canola oil, and 4.5 oz of BallPark ButterSalt, making it a perfect choice for those who want to experiment with different popcorn flavors at home.

The popcorn kernels are non-GMO and gluten-free, so you can enjoy them without any worries. Canola oil is a healthy alternative to traditional oils, and it produces delicious popcorn that is low in saturated fats. The BallPark ButterSalt is a tasty addition that will take your popcorn to the next level with its rich, buttery flavor.

This sampler pack is easy to use and perfect for movie nights or any other occasion where you want to enjoy freshly popped popcorn. With its convenient packaging, you can take it with you wherever you go and make delicious popcorn in no time.

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Pros:

• Sampler pack includes 8 bags of popcorn kernels, canola oil, and BallPark ButterSalt
• Non-GMO and gluten-free popcorn kernels
• Canola oil is a healthy alternative to traditional oils
• ButterSalt adds a rich, buttery flavor to your popcorn
• Convenient and easy to use

Cons:

• Some customers found the popcorn kernels to be too small
• A few customers reported receiving stale popcorn kernels in their packs

Type of Oil for Popping Popcorn on Stove

Various types of oils can be used for popping popcorn on the stove, and each has its own unique qualities. Here are some of the most common types of oils used for popping popcorn on the stove:

1. Canola Oil

Canola oil is a popular choice for popping popcorn on the stove. It has a neutral taste, so it won’t overpower the flavor of the popcorn. Canola oil also has a high smoke point, which means it can withstand high temperatures without burning.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is another popular oil for popping popcorn on the stove. It adds a slightly sweet and nutty flavor to the popcorn, and it has a high smoke point. Coconut oil is also a healthier option, as it contains medium-chain triglycerides that are easily digested by the body.

3. Olive Oil

Olive oil is a healthier alternative to traditional popcorn oils, and it adds a unique flavor to the popcorn. However, it has a low smoke point, so it’s not the best choice for popping popcorn on high heat.

4. Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is a common choice for popping popcorn on the stove. It has a neutral taste and a high smoke point, which makes it suitable for high-heat cooking.

5. Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is a good option for those who are looking for a healthy oil to pop popcorn on the stove. It has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, which makes it suitable for high-heat cooking.

What Makes Coconut Oil a Prime Choice for Popping Popcorn?

One of the joys of making popcorn on the stovetop is the ability to experiment with different oils to find the one that best suits your taste preferences. Among the variety of options available, coconut oil stands out as a prime choice. Its high smoke point ensures that the oil can withstand the heat required to pop the kernels without smoking or altering its taste. This characteristic is key for anyone looking to achieve that perfect batch of popcorn without any burnt flavor.

The unique, slightly sweet flavor of coconut oil also adds a special touch to the popcorn, distinguishing it from the more neutral tastes provided by other oils. This can elevate your popcorn experience, offering a hint of tropical essence that enhances the snack’s overall appeal. The health-conscious will appreciate that coconut oil is considered a healthier fat, containing medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) known for their energy-boosting properties.

Choosing coconut oil for your stovetop popcorn not only promises delicious results but also integrates a touch of healthiness and a burst of flavor that can make your popcorn-snacking experience more enjoyable. It’s about finding that perfect balance of taste and health benefits, and coconut oil beautifully bridges that gap, making it a favored option for many popcorn aficionados.

How Can You Achieve Perfectly Sweet Popcorn on the Stove?

Creating perfectly sweet popcorn on the stove is an art that combines the right ingredients with a bit of technique. The secret lies in not just the type of oil used but also in how you incorporate sweetness into the snack. To begin, selecting an oil with a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, like canola or vegetable oil, is essential. This ensures that your popcorn pops efficiently without the oil impacting the flavor of your sweet treat.

Once your popcorn has popped to fluffy perfection, the transformation into a sweet sensation involves a simple yet effective step – making a quick sweet syrup. By gently heating a mixture of butter and sugar, you create a rich, velvety coating that, once drizzled over the popcorn, clings to each kernel with its delightful sweetness. A sprinkle of salt is the final touch, enhancing the sweet flavors and adding depth to the overall taste profile.

This process not only allows you to control the level of sweetness according to your preferences but also opens up a world of flavor possibilities. From adding a dash of cinnamon for warmth, a splash of vanilla for depth, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist, the options are endless. Achieving perfectly sweet popcorn on the stove is about blending the right flavors with the right techniques, resulting in a snack that’s irresistibly tasty and uniquely yours.

How to Make Sweet Popcorn on the Stove?

If you’re craving a sweet treat, you might be wondering how to make sweet popcorn on the stove. It’s actually quite simple! You can use your favorite popcorn kernels and the right oil to create a delicious snack that satisfies your sweet tooth.

1. Choose the right oil: The best oil for making sweet popcorn on the stove is one with a neutral taste that won’t overpower the sweetness. Canola oil or vegetable oil are good options. Avoid oils with strong flavors like olive oil.

2. Add sugar: Once the popcorn is popped, it’s time to add some sweetness. In a separate pot, melt some butter and mix in some sugar. Heat the mixture until it becomes syrupy, then pour it over the popcorn and mix well.

3. Add some salt: Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness of the popcorn. Use a fine-grain salt for even distribution.

4. Mix in other flavors: To take your sweet popcorn to the next level, you can add other flavors like cinnamon, vanilla extract, or cocoa powder. Just be sure to mix well so the flavors are evenly distributed.

Learn More: Rondeau Pan Vs Dutch Oven: Choosing the Right One

Can You Pop Popcorn in Vegetable Oil?

Yes, you can pop popcorn in vegetable oil. Vegetable oil is a popular choice for popping popcorn because it has a high smoke point, which means it can handle the high heat needed for popping kernels. It also has a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the taste of the popcorn.

Vegetable oil is not the healthiest option for popping popcorn. It’s high in unhealthy fats and can contribute to heart disease and other health problems if consumed in excess.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using coconut oil, avocado oil, or canola oil. These oils have healthier fat profiles and are better for your health overall.

Learn More: Can You Use Grill Mates in the Oven?

FAQs

Can I use coconut oil for popcorn on the stove?

Yes, coconut oil is a great option for popping popcorn on the stove as it has a high smoke point and imparts a delicious, slightly sweet flavor.

How much popcorn oil should I use?

A general rule of thumb is to use 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil per 1/4 to 1/3 cup of popcorn kernels. However, this can vary depending on your preferences and the size of your pot.

What is the best stovetop popcorn recipe?

There are many delicious stovetop popcorn recipes, but a simple and classic recipe is to heat oil in a pot over medium-high heat, add popcorn kernels, cover the pot, and shake it occasionally until the popping stops. Then, season the popcorn with salt and enjoy!

How do I pop popcorn on the stove with vegetable oil?

To pop popcorn on the stove with vegetable oil, heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1/4 to 1/3 cup of popcorn kernels and cover the pot. Shake the pot occasionally until the popping stops, then remove from heat and season with salt or other toppings.

How can I make popcorn on the stove without oil?

You can make popcorn on the stove without oil by using a dry popcorn popper or by using a covered pot with no oil. Simply heat the pot over medium-high heat, add popcorn kernels, cover the pot, and shake it occasionally until the popping stops. Season with salt or other toppings as desired.

What kind of oil should I use for popcorn on the stove?

The best oils for popping popcorn on the stove are those with a high smoke point, such as coconut oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil. However, you can also use vegetable oil, peanut oil, or even butter if you prefer the flavor.

Read More: Cleaning and Seasoning Your Cast Iron Pan: What You Need to Know

The Final Word

Choosing the best oil for popping popcorn on the stove can greatly enhance your popcorn experience. There are various options to choose from, each with its unique taste, texture, and health benefits. It is important to consider factors such as smoke point, flavor, and nutritional value when selecting the oil to use.

Coconut oil is an excellent choice for its high smoke point and sweet, nutty flavor, while vegetable oil is a popular option due to its neutral taste and affordability. Avocado oil is a healthy alternative with a high smoke point and a mild, buttery flavor.

To achieve the perfect popcorn, it is also important to use the right amount of oil and follow a suitable recipe. Experimenting with different oils and seasonings can also help you create a customized popcorn experience that suits your preferences.