High Protein Sweet and Salty Popcorn
Elevate your snacking game with this High Protein Sweet and Salty Popcorn—a deliciously wholesome twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for satisfying both your sweet tooth and salty cravings, this recipe combines freshly popped kernels with a luscious drizzle of maple syrup blended with vanilla plant-based protein powder. A touch of sea salt and optional cinnamon adds depth and balance to each bite. Ready in just 15 minutes, this easy recipe delivers a protein-packed snack ideal for post-workout refueling, movie marathons, or anytime munching. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and can be tailored with coconut or olive oil for your preferred flavor profile. Serve it fresh or store for up to three days—it’s guaranteed to become a household favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unpopped popcorn kernels
- 2 tablespoons Coconut oil (or olive oil for a lighter flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Vanilla plant-based protein powder (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 2 tablespoons Maple syrup
- 0.5 teaspoon Sea salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
In a large pot with a lid, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
Add 3-4 popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it with the lid. Once they pop, the oil is ready.
Pour the rest of the popcorn kernels into the pot and shake it gently to coat them in oil. Cover the pot with the lid, leaving it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
Once the popcorn starts popping, shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning. Remove from heat when popping slows to about 1 pop every 2 seconds.
Transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl and set aside.
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the maple syrup and vanilla protein powder. Stir continuously until smooth and combined (about 1-2 minutes). If using cinnamon, add it now.
Drizzle the protein mixture over the popcorn and sprinkle with sea salt. Toss the popcorn until evenly coated. For better distribution, use clean hands or a large spoon to gently mix.
Spread the coated popcorn on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes to let the coating set.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1298 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 38.8 g | 50% | |
| Saturated Fat | 25.0 g | 125% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1282 mg | 56% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 206.7 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 32.4 g | 116% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.2 g | ||
| Protein | 36.4 g | 73% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 55 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 9.1 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 713 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
