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Protein Popcorn

A light, crunchy, and high-protein snack that transforms ordinary air-popped corn into a sweet and salty treat. Coated in a low-sugar protein glazes, this guilt-free snack provides over 15 grams of protein per serving and takes under 10 minutes to make.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time3 minutes
Total Time8 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: 210kcal
Author: The Simply Healthy Life

Ingredients

🍖Popcorn Base:

1/2 cup (100g) unpopped popcorn kernels (or 6 cups air-popped popcorn)

1 tbsp coconut oil or melted butter (or cooking spray)

🍖Protein Coating:

1 scoop (30g) whey or whey/casein blend protein powder (Vanilla, Chocolate, or Salted Caramel)

1 tbsp powdered sweetener or powdered sugar (e.g., powdered monk fruit or stevia)

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

1/4 tsp sea salt

Instructions

🟢Pop the Corn:

    Pop the corn kernels using an air popper, stove-top pot with a lid, or a silicone microwave popcorn bowl. Place the warm, freshly popped corn into a large mixing bowl.

      🟢Prep the Protein Powder Mix:

        In a small bowl, whisk together the protein powder, powdered sweetener, cinnamon, and sea salt until thoroughly combined.

          🟢Lightly Oil the Popcorn:

            Drizzle the melted coconut oil or butter over the warm popcorn (or spray lightly with cooking spray). Toss gently to ensure the popcorn pieces are lightly coated so the dry mixture adheres.

              🟢Coat & Toss:

                Dust the protein powder mixture evenly over the popcorn while tossing continuously until every piece is coated.

                  🟢Serve & Enjoy:

                    Let sit for 1–2 minutes to allow the coating to set, then serve immediately in a large bowl.

                      Notes

                      • Protein Powder Variety: Use plant-based protein powder (pea or soy) for a vegan version, or choose PB2 / Peanut Butter Powder for a rich nutty flavor.
                      • Oil Alternative: Replace coconut oil with coconut oil spray, butter-flavored spray, or melted nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew butter) mixed with a splash of warm water.
                      • Savory Variation: Omit the sweetener and cinnamon, and mix the protein powder with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a savory cheese-flavored protein popcorn.