Stove top chocolate popcorn is super easy and a fun way to enjoy a better-for-you sweet treat. This recipe only takes 5 minutes to make with just 5 ingredients. It’s perfect to have out during the holiday season for snacking!

What is chocolate popcorn?

Chocolate popcorn is essentially just like it sounds–fresh popped corn covered in chocolate. For this recipe, we are using a small amount of dark chocolate and cocoa powder to lightly coat the popcorn. 

Is this recipe healthy?

Many store-bought chocolate covered popcorns are filled with tons of sugar and a long list of processed ingredients. Instead, this recipe uses 5 nourishing ingredients packed with antioxidants and fiber.

• Popcorn – Did you know ¼ cup of popcorn kernels contains around 7 grams of fiber? This fiber is important for our gut and heart health.
• Chocolate – The mixture of dark chocolate and cocoa powder both provide a type of phytonutrient called “flavonoids”. Flavonoids act as antioxidants and have been shown to have heart health benefits. Since we are using a light sprinkling of chocolate chips, you can enjoy the benefits without packing on too many calories. For even more heart-health benefits, you can substitute the 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder with 1 scoop of CocoaVia.

How do you make chocolate popcorn?

Never made popcorn on the stove before? No worries! This recipe is super simple and comes together in no time. Here’s your step-by-step guide to making fluffy popcorn with chocolate:

1. Start by heating up your oil

When making stove top popcorn, I recommend having your oil hot before adding in your kernels. This allows for more even popping. To test if your oil is hot, rotate your pan–the oil should easily glide around.

2. Add over your kernels

For this recipe, we are making a smaller amount of popcorn. However, if you are serving a large crowd, feel free to double all of the recipe amounts and use 1/2 cup of kernels. You’ll just want to make sure to use a larger pot.

After you add over your kernels, it may take 1-2 minutes until the first kernel pops. Then, the rest of the kernels should start popping soon after

3. Wait for the kernels to stop popping

Just like microwave popcorn, you’ll know it’s done when a few seconds go by in between popping. For stove top popcorn, I find that when there is about 5-7 seconds with no popping sounds–it’s done. You may find a few kernels that didn’t pop, but most should have at this point.

4. Coat with chocolate

Before you even begin making your popcorn, make sure to have a large heat proof bowl or tupperware with a lid on standby. This is what we’ll transfer the popcorn into. Then, while it’s still piping hot–sprinkle over the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and salt. Then, snap on your lid and give it a good shake. This will distribute the melted chocolate and cocoa powder throughout each kernel. 

If you don’t have another bowl handy, you can add the chocolate and cocoa powder to your pot and use pot holders to shake the pot. Just note: this pot is very hot and could result in burnt popcorn or burnt chocolate. That’s why I recommend transfering to a bowl first!

5. Freeze to harden

If you prefer a more crunchy chocolate consistency, transfer to the freezer for a few minutes to harden the melted chocolate.

Customize it your way

Like all of my other recipes, this chocolate popcorn is completely customizable. You get to choose what oil and chocolate you want to use.

• Oil of your choice – I recommend choosing an oil with a high smoke point like avocado oil, olive oil, or butter. 
• Chocolate of your choice – For the most health benefits, choose 70% cocoa or higher. I find chocolate chips distribute best, but you could also chop your favorite chocolate bar into small pieces. If you’re not a fan of dark chocolate, feel free to use milk or white chocolate.

Can I add other popcorn toppings?

I’m all about the customizable add-ons! Although I don’t specifically call for any toppings in the recipe, feel free to sprinkle on any favorites. Here are a few I’ll often add on top for movie nights:

• Nuts of your choice – Cashews, honey roasted peanuts, and pecans are all delicious
• Natural Delights Dark Chocolate Truffles – If you enjoy adding M&Ms to your popcorn, you’ll love adding over these miniature, candy-sized truffles
• Pretzels – Almost like a fun spin on chocolate covered pretzels
• RIND Snacks Dark Cocoa Sea Salt Coconut Crisps – super crispy and perfect healthy addition

How many does this recipe serve?

This recipe makes enough for about 4 people to have 2 cups of popcorn. If you’re wanting to serve a large crowd, you can double the recipe. I’ve also made a large batch for just myself by cutting the recipe in half.

This chocolate popcorn is also ideal for holiday gifting. Make your popcorn fresh, add to small baggies, and gift away!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I recommend making this chocolate covered popcorn day of for the freshest flavor. However, you can also make it ahead of time and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. 

Need more help with recipes for your busy schedule?

In my coaching + cooking program, I help busy people with beginner cooking knowledge become confident in the kitchen so that they can enjoy nourishing foods they love and stress less about mealtime. Click here to learn more about this virtual program led by a dietitian.

Want more holiday snacks? Try these other recipes:

• Gingerbread Mug Cake
• Avocado Truffles
• Edible Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

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