Instant Pot Popcorn

Instant Pot Popcorn is a great way to make popcorn without using the stove or microwave. Pressure cooker popcorn comes out light and crisp, and it is so easy! I show you how to make popcorn in the Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Popcorn

Okay, making popcorn in the pressure cooker?! What? Actually, my Nana made popcorn in her stovetop pressure cooker.

Making popcorn in the Instant Pot is actually really easy to do. Though it can be a bit tricky, So I'm giving you the scoop.

The way you make popcorn in your Instant Pot is similar to the stove top version. Cook it in oil on high heat. But you won't use the pressure cook setting.

How to Make Popcorn in the Instant Pot

Add the oil to the pot. Turn on the sauté setting. Adjust the heat to MORE. Wait for the display to read 'HOT'.

Add the popcorn kernels. Stir them to coat them with the oil. Place a glass lid on the pot and wait for the kernels to start popping.

Which Oil is Best for Popping Popcorn?

• I like to use refined coconut oil as it is great in high heat. It doesn't taste like coconut if you get the refined version.
• Avocado oil is also great for popcorn. You can use any oil that can withstand high heat. Grapeseed oil works well, too.

Can Popcorn Be Made in the 3-Quart Instant Pot?

I did test it, and my conclusion is that though yes, it can be done, the results are not ideal.

Each time I tried it there were too many unpopped kernels left. The 3-quart pot is a lower wattage so it doesn't get quite hot enough to make a great batch of popcorn.

Tips for Popcorn in the Instant Pot

• Use a clear glass lid. You’ll want to be able to see the popcorn kernels popping to ensure they don't burn. If you don’t have a glass lid, find some other kind of lid or there will be popcorn flying!
• Use fresh popcorn kernels. If your popcorn kernels are older they may not pop well, if at all.
• To get a more even pop, shake your instant pot to move around the popcorn. Unpopped kernels sometimes rest on already popped kernels, which results in them not getting enough heat to pop. Moving the popcorn around helps these unpopped kernels get more heat.
• If you want buttery popcorn, you can melt 2 tablespoons of butter and pour it over the popcorn.

Instant Pot Boiled Eggs
Instant Pot Corn on the Cob
Instant Pot Bone Broth
Instant Pot Rice Pudding

If you make popcorn in the Instant Pot, let me know! Just leave a comment with a star rating below. I would like to know how you liked it!

5 from 5 votes

Print

Instant Pot Popcorn

Prep Time

3 mins

Cook Time

10 mins

Total Time

13 mins

 

Skip the stove and whip up a quick bowl of popcorn in minutes, using your instant pot! Easy, less mess, and easier to contain than a pot. Delicious and perfect popcorn every time.

Course: Appetizer, snacks

Cuisine: American

Keyword: pressure cooker popcorn

Servings: 4

Calories: 45 kcal

Author: Sandy Clifton

Ingredients

• 3 Tablespoons Refined Coconut Oil*
• ½ cup Popcorn Kernels

Optional Flavorings

• 2 Tablespoons Butter, melted
• Salt, to taste
• Grated Parmesan Cheese

Instructions

1. Set the pot to the sauté setting, then Adjust to 'MORE' (which is the highest heat for sauté). Add the oil to the pot.

2. Allow the oil to heat up for about 2 minutes, or until your instant pot displays the word “hot”. Then add the popcorn kernels to the pot and place the lid on.

3. Shake the pot a little to get the kernels in a single layer.

4. In about 2-3 minutes of heating while covered, you will start to hear the popcorn kernels popping.

5. Let it pop for about 5 minutes or until ¾ of the kernels have popped. Turn off the pot so it doesn't burn. The remaining kernels will continue to pop in the residual heat.

6. Turn off the pot and remove the lid. Transfer the popcorn to a large bowl.

7. Sprinkle on some salt and melted butter, if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

*Which Oil is Best for Popping Popcorn?

• I like to use refined coconut oil as it is great in high heat. It doesn't taste like coconut if you get the refined version.
• Avocado oil is also great for popcorn. You can use any oil that can withstand high heat. Grapeseed oil works well, too.

 

Tips For IP Popcorn

• Use a clear glass lid. You’ll want to be able to see the popcorn kernels popping to ensure they don't burn. If you don’t have a glass lid, find some other kind of lid or there will be kernels flying!
• Use fresh popcorn kernels. If your popcorn kernels are older they may not pop well, if at all.
• To get a more even pop, shake your instant pot to move around the popcorn. Unpopped kernels sometimes rest on already popped kernels, which results in them not getting enough heat to pop. Moving the popcorn around helps these unpopped kernels get more heat.
• If you want buttery popcorn, you can melt 2 tablespoons of butter and pour it over the popcorn.

Resources to Make this Recipe and More

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