Easy Protein Popcorn (6 Flavors!)- The Big Man's World ® (2024)

This protein popcorn packs in over 20 grams of protein per serving and is deliciously crispy and crunchy!A healthy snack that takes minutes to make.

It’s no secret that adding protein to my meals helps keep me satisfied.

Main meals are easy, as I naturally eat foods high in protein then. However, it is my snacks that can be a little bit tricky.

Sure, I could have a protein shake or a hard boiled egg, but I love to do things differently. Instead, I’ve been enjoying a protein granola bar or protein muffin. Recently, I’ve been loving a big bowl of protein popcorn.

Does popcorn have protein?

Popcorn is high in fiber and carbs, and does not contain much protein. A typical serving has just 3 grams of protein. Luckily, with a few tweaks, you can add tons of protein to it, while making it extremely delicious.

Why this protein popcorn recipe will be a snacking staple-

• Over 20 grams of protein per serving. By using a half cup of protein powder, you are adding at least 40 grams of protein to the entire recipe.
• Ready in minutes. This is the snack you can make in less than 5 minutes, or prepare a big batch to be sorted for the week!
• Sweet or savory flavor options. Kettle corn, sea salt, or cinnamon bun- The flavor options are endless! We’ve included 6 flavor options.

What I love about this popcorn is how it tastes JUST like the flavored popcorn, minus all the calories and excess fat!

How to make protein popcorn

The easiest way to add more protein to popcorn is to toss through protein powder with it. It changes the flavor and packs in the protein.

The Ingredients.

• Air popped popcorn– You can either use pre-packaged air popped popcorn (no added sugar or salt) or pop your own! I prefer the latter option, as the popcorn tastes so much fresher and it’s easier to toss through the other ingredients.
• Cooking spray or coconut oil– A spritz of cooking oil over the popcorn helps the
• Salt– Just a pinch to balance out all the sweet ingredients.
• Cinnamon– Optional, but I love all things cinnamon.
• Granulated sweetener of choice– Erythritol, monk fruit sweetener, or granulated allulose. All have zero calories and carbs.
• Protein powder– Unflavored or flavored.

The Instructions.

Start by air-popping your popcorn (or using an air fryer!). Let it cool slightly, before generously spraying it with cooking spray or coconut oil. Next, add the salt, cinnamon, sweetener, and protein powder. Give it a good mix and toss through with your hands until all the popcorn is seasoned. Transfer it to a bowl and enjoy immediately.

Flavor variations

• Chocolate chip– Let the popcorn cool completely and omit the cinnamon. Toss through 1/2 cup of sugar free chocolate chips.
• Sweet and salty– Omit the cinnamon and double the salt and sweetener used. This tastes just like kettle corn.
• Cheddar cheese– Omit the cinnamon and sweetener and use an unflavored protein powder. Add cheddar cheese powder or seasoning.
• Caramel– Let the popcorn cool completely, then drizzle with sugar free caramel syrup. If you choose to add caramel, you must enjoy this popcorn the day it’s made.
• Sea salt– Use unflavored protein powder and omit the cinnamon and sweetener.
• Cinnamon bun– Double the amount of sweetener and cinnamon.

Storing and freezing instructions

• To store: Leftover popcorn (flavored or unflavored) can be kept at room temperature for up to five days.
• To freeze: Do not freeze the popcorn, as it will become soggy and rancid.

More high protein recipes to try

• No bake protein bars
• Keto protein bars
• Muffins
• Cookies
• Cookie butter

Frequently Asked Questions