Get ready to elevate your snack game with these 20 scrumptious popcorn cake recipes! Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert to impress at a party or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, we’ve got you covered. From classic combinations like caramel and peanut butter to bold flavors like matcha and strawberry shortcake, there’s something on this list for every palate.
In the following pages, we’ll be sharing our top 20 popcorn cake recipes that are sure to delight both kids and adults. With flavors ranging from rich and decadent to bright and fruity, you’re bound to find a favorite (or two, or three…). So grab your microwave, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the most delicious and addictive snacks of the season!
Caramel Drizzle Popcorn Cake
A sweet and salty twist on traditional cake, this Caramel Drizzle Popcorn Cake is perfect for movie nights or special treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup popcorn kernels (popped and chopped)
– Caramel drizzle (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped popcorn.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cake to cool before drizzling with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Popcorn Cake
This rich and indulgent cake combines the perfect blend of chocolatey goodness, nutty peanut butter flavor, and crunchy popcorn for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup popcorn kernels, popped and chopped
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; fold in chopped popcorn.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled cakes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Birthday Party Popcorn Cake with Sprinkles
Celebrate any occasion with this unique and delicious popcorn cake, topped with colorful sprinkles!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1-2 cups sprinkles of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large pot or saucepan, combine popcorn, corn syrup, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter until combined.
4. Pour mixture into prepared cake pan and smooth top.
5. Let cool completely before topping with sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes or until set.
Enjoy your Birthday Party Popcorn Cake with Sprinkles!
Salted Caramel Pretzel Popcorn Cake
A sweet and salty masterpiece that combines the crunch of pretzels, the sweetness of caramel, and the fun of popcorn.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pretzel rods, crushed
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg white
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until popped.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt.
4. Add the crushed pretzels to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the popcorn mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Matcha White Chocolate Popcorn Cake
Elevate your snack game with this unique and delicious Matcha White Chocolate Popcorn Cake. This Japanese-inspired treat combines the brightness of matcha green tea with the sweetness of white chocolate and the crunch of popcorn.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup melted white chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pop the popcorn kernels and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water. Place over medium heat and stir until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and stir in matcha powder and melted white chocolate chips until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
6. Spread on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
7. Allow to cool completely before breaking into chunks.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Velvet Popcorn Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your snack game with this unique and delicious Red Velvet Popcorn Cake, topped with a tangy Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfect for movie nights or as a sweet treat any time of the day!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups popped popcorn
– 1 cup red velvet cake mix
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine popcorn, cake mix, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
5. Allow to cool completely before frosting with Cream Cheese Frosting (see below).
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Peanut Butter Cup Popcorn Cake
A sweet treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter cups and popcorn, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup melted milk chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup crushed peanut butter cups (about 12-15 cups)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Pop the popcorn kernels and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter until smooth. Let cool slightly.
5. Stir in the melted chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
6. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated evenly.
7. Fold in the crushed peanut butter cups.
8. Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cookies and Cream Popcorn Cake
Take a trip down memory lane with this creative dessert that combines the classic flavors of cookies and cream with the fun of popcorn! This moist cake is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies
– 1 cup popcorn kernels
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir in crushed Oreos and popcorn kernels.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Popcorn Cake
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and unique dessert, featuring the sweetness of blueberries, the tanginess of lemon, and the crunch of popcorn.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Pop popcorn kernels according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in the popcorn kernels and blueberries.
7. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Toasted Coconut Popcorn Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of toasted coconut with the crunch of popcorn, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels (popped and chopped)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, popcorn, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the melted butter and mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Cinnamon Popcorn Cake
Elevate your snack game with this unique Spicy Cinnamon Popcorn Cake recipe! This sweet and spicy treat is perfect for a movie night or as a tasty addition to your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a pot or using an air popper. Remove any unpopped kernels and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Whisk in vanilla extract.
5. Fold the popcorn into the wet ingredients until well coated.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
S’mores Popcorn Cake with Marshmallow Fluff
Combine the classic campfire treat with a sweet popcorn cake, and you’ll have a unique dessert that’s sure to delight. This S’mores Popcorn Cake with Marshmallow Fluff is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for parties or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup marshmallow fluff
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips
– Graham cracker crumbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until popped. Set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add powdered sugar to the melted butter mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Stir in marshmallow fluff until smooth. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour the popcorn into the prepared cake pan, followed by the marshmallow mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutella Swirl Popcorn Cake
Transform your snack time into a decadent treat with this rich and creamy Nutella Swirl Popcorn Cake. Moist popcorn cake layers are swirled with a velvety Nutella mixture, creating a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups popped popcorn
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup melted chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup Nutella
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and melted chocolate chips. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine popcorn, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
4. Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Add melted butter to the popcorn mixture and whisk until combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Swirl Nutella into the batter with a spatula or spoon.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Popcorn Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the warmth of cinnamon with the crunch of popcorn, topped with a sweet apple compote. Perfect for a snack or dessert, this unique recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/2 cup apple compote (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Stir in popcorn kernels.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before topping with apple compote and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rocky Road Popcorn Cake
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this easy-to-make Rocky Road Popcorn Cake. This scrumptious dessert combines the perfect blend of salty and sweet, making it a must-have for movie nights or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups popcorn kernels
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and marshmallows over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popped popcorn and mix until evenly coated.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the popcorn mixture until well combined.
7. If using walnuts, fold them in at this stage.
8. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and enjoy!
Pumpkin Spice Popcorn Cake
This Pumpkin Spice Popcorn Cake is a unique and tasty dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the fun of popcorn. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday parties, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels, popped and chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Add melted butter, pumpkin puree, and chopped popcorn kernels. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Popcorn Cake
A sweet and crunchy twist on traditional shortcake, this strawberry popcorn cake is perfect for a summer dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until popped.
2. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, powdered sugar, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the popped popcorn to the wet mixture and stir until coated.
4. Fold in the sliced strawberries and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Popcorn Cake
This indulgent cake combines the crunch of popcorn with the deep flavors of dark chocolate and a touch of sea salt, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and melted butter.
3. Add milk and vanilla extract; stir until smooth.
4. Fold in popcorn kernels and dark chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Sprinkle sea salt over the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Split Popcorn Cake
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this unique and delicious Banana Split Popcorn Cake! This sweet and salty treat combines the flavors of banana, caramel, and popcorn in a moist and fluffy cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large ripe banana, mashed
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 tablespoon caramel sauce
– 1 egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, mashed banana, popcorn kernels, caramel sauce, and egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tiramisu-Inspired Popcorn Cake
Tiramisu-Inspired Popcorn Cake: Elevate your snack game with this unique dessert-inspired treat!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups popped popcorn
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder (not espresso powder)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (milk or dark)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 6-inch round cake pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine popcorn, melted butter, coffee powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Sprinkle powdered sugar over the mixture and fold until evenly distributed.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or double boiler. Pour over the popcorn mixture and gently fold until coated.
5. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious array of popcorn cakes! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes perfect for any occasion. From classic flavors like caramel and chocolate peanut butter, to festive treats like birthday party sprinkles and s’mores, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find unique flavor combinations like salted caramel pretzel, matcha white chocolate, and toasted coconut. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a fun dessert to bring to a party, these popcorn cakes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
