Andy Montoya
Cheese popcorn is a popular snack, but which is the best? There are many options available, from Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn to Garrett Popcorn Shops' CheeseCorn. Some prefer to make their own, adding herbs, spices, and nutritional yeast to taste. Others opt for store-bought varieties, with some of the most popular options including Damn Good Popcorn's Gourmet Cheddar Cheesy Popcorn, available on Amazon, and DOUBLEGOOD's cheddar popcorn, though the latter is reportedly expensive. While some enjoy the tang of G.H. Cretors' cheddar and caramel combo bag, others prefer the mild cheese taste of Popcornopolis. With so many options to choose from, it's hard to say which is the best, as taste is subjective, but these are some of the top contenders.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese flavour | Sharp, salty-creamy cheddar cheese flavour |
| Popcorn quality | Fresh and crunchy |
| Overall | Greedy fistfuls until you get to the crumbly bits at the bottom of the bag |
| Coating-to-popcorn ratio | Balanced and consistent |
| Flavour | Mild, tangy, buttery, artificial |
| Texture | Fluffy, dense, crumbly |
| Brand | Garrett, City Pop, Indiana, Cheetos, DOUBLEGOOD, Renee's Wisconsin, Cabot, Smartfood, G.H. Cretors, Popcornopolis, SkinnyPop, Target's Good & Gather, Trader Joe's, Damn Good Popcorn, Whole Foods 365, Walgreen's Nice! |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
The cheesiest shop-bought cheese popcorn
There are several options available for cheese lovers looking to buy cheese popcorn. The best option for you will depend on your personal preferences, as well as what is available in your area.
One popular choice is Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn, which is widely available in stores across the US and comes in single-serving baggies. However, some have criticised its flavour as being too similar to its competitor SkinnyPop, which has been described as lacking in flavour and tasting like a diet food.
Another option is Renee's Cheesy Corn, which is available on Amazon and has been praised as "hands down, the cheesiest popcorn there is". However, it is also available on a fundraising website, which may make it more difficult to purchase.
Popcornopolis is another brand that has received mixed reviews. While some have enjoyed its mild cheese flavour and good saltiness, others have been less impressed by its "nearly naked" marketing and the residue it leaves on fingertips.
If you're looking for a more gourmet option, Garrett Popcorn Shops offer tins of their CheeseCorn, made with real cheddar cheese. However, reviews of this product are mixed, with some finding it delicious and others describing it as "bland".
For those who enjoy making their own popcorn at home, there are several recipes available online that suggest using cheddar cheese powder, butter, and seasonings such as onion powder, paprika, and nutritional yeast to create a cheesy flavour.
Cheese Options for French Dip
You may want to see also
Making cheese popcorn at home
If you're craving a cheesy, crunchy, salty snack, you can make homemade cheddar cheese popcorn right in your kitchen. Here's a step-by-step guide to making delicious cheese popcorn at home:
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients:
- Popcorn kernels
- Oil (vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or corn oil)
- Butter
- Cheddar cheese powder (or grated cheddar cheese)
- Salt
- Optional: herbs, spices, nutritional yeast, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, or popcorn salt
Instructions
- Add Oil and Test Kernels: In a large, heavy-bottomed stockpot or Dutch oven, add a small amount of oil and 2-3 popcorn kernels. Heat the oil over high heat.
- Prepare the Popcorn: Once the test kernels pop, add the remaining popcorn kernels. Cover the pan and continue heating until most of the kernels have popped.
- Melt the Butter: While the popcorn is popping, melt the desired amount of butter. You can do this in the microwave in 20-second intervals or on the stovetop.
- Toss with Butter: Pour the popped popcorn into a large bowl. Drizzle half of the melted butter over the popcorn and toss to combine. Add the remaining butter and toss again.
- Add the Cheese: Immediately sprinkle cheddar cheese powder over the popcorn, a tablespoon at a time. Toss the popcorn after each addition to evenly coat each kernel. You can also use grated cheddar cheese, but the coating may not be as consistent.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and any desired seasonings to taste. Toss again to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your homemade cheese popcorn! It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Tips for the Best Cheese Popcorn
- Look for high-quality, fresh ingredients. Freshness has a significant impact on the overall enjoyment of cheese popcorn.
- Achieve a balanced coating-to-popcorn ratio. The cheesiness and flavour intensity should be consistent throughout.
- Experiment with different types of cheese and seasonings to find your perfect combination.
- For a creamier flavour, add butter flavour extract or additional melted butter.
- For a tangier flavour, use a sharper cheddar cheese or add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- If your popcorn loses its crispness, you can crisp it back up by heating it in the oven at 250°F for about 5 minutes.
Cheese and Eggs: A Perfect Match?
You may want to see also
The best gourmet cheese popcorn
Cheese popcorn is a popular snack, and there are many options available on the market. However, when it comes to finding the best gourmet cheese popcorn, there are a few factors to consider. The cheese-to-popcorn ratio is crucial, as the coating should provide a sharp, salty-creamy cheddar cheese flavour without tasting like chemicals or preservatives. The popcorn itself should be fresh and crunchy, and the overall experience should be enjoyable enough to keep you reaching for more.
One popular option for gourmet cheese popcorn is Damn Good Popcorn's Cheddar Cheesy Popcorn. Available on Amazon, this popcorn has received mixed reviews. Some customers rave about its delicious, addictive flavour and freshness, claiming it to be the best cheese popcorn they've ever had. However, others have found it underwhelming, with a stronger buttery taste than expected and a less-than-fresh texture. The crumbs and clumps in the bag have also been a point of contention, with some bags containing more crumbs than popcorn. Despite the mixed reviews, the positive reactions to its taste indicate that it is worth considering for cheese popcorn enthusiasts.
Another option is Garrett Popcorn Shops' CheeseCorn, a gourmet cheddar cheese popcorn made with real cheese and marketed as the perfect snack for a movie night. While one reviewer on Reddit found it disappointing and bland, others have praised their cheddar corn, suggesting that personal taste may play a significant role in the overall enjoyment of this brand.
For those looking for a more accessible option, Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn is widely available in stores and comes in single-serving baggies for on-the-go snacking. While some may prefer a stronger cheese flavour, this option still satisfies the craving for a cheesy snack. Additionally, Target's Smartfood option is recommended for those seeking a quick fix.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can also make your own gourmet cheese popcorn at home. One suggestion is to use cheddar cheese powder and add herbs, spices, and nutritional yeast to enhance the flavour. This allows you to customise the taste and create a unique, personal blend.
In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best gourmet cheese popcorn, it ultimately depends on individual preferences. From pre-made options like Damn Good Popcorn's Cheddar Cheesy Popcorn and Garrett Popcorn Shops' CheeseCorn to customisable homemade creations, there are plenty of choices to explore and enjoy.
Cheese Pairing: A Guide to Finding the Perfect Match
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The best value for money
If you're looking for the best value for money when it comes to cheese popcorn, there are a few options to consider. While some popular choices can be expensive, there are definitely some more affordable alternatives that don't compromise on taste and quality.
One option that stands out for its value is Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn. It's widely available in stores and often sold in single-serving baggies, making it a convenient and affordable choice. While some might find the cheese flavour mild, it's still a tasty and salty snack that won't break the bank.
Another option that offers good value for money is City Pop's Cheddar Corn. Described as a "magical experience" by one taster, City Pop's offering seems to pack a flavourful punch without the hefty price tag. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find more specific pricing information, but based on the positive reviews, it's worth considering.
If you're open to trying something a little different, making your own cheese popcorn at home can be a fun and cost-effective option. By purchasing cheddar cheese powder and adding herbs, spices, and nutritional yeast, you can create a flavourful and cheesy coating for your popcorn. This DIY approach lets you control the cost of ingredients and customise the flavour to your liking.
Lastly, while it's not the cheapest option, Damn Good Popcorn's Gourmet Cheddar Cheesy Popcorn is worth considering if you're looking for a balance between taste and value. Reviews are mixed, with some finding it overpriced and others claiming it's the best cheese popcorn they've ever had. However, with its addictive buttery and cheesy flavour, it might be worth the splurge to decide for yourself.
So, whether you opt for a convenient store-bought option like Smartfood, an apparently delicious choice like City Pop, or decide to make your own, there are plenty of ways to enjoy cheese popcorn without spending a fortune.
Cheese and Salad: The Perfect Match
You may want to see also
The best cheese popcorn for health-conscious consumers
If you're a health-conscious consumer with a craving for cheese popcorn, there are a few options that might be worth considering. While cheese popcorn is generally not considered a health food, some products may be more aligned with your dietary preferences than others. Here are some suggestions for cheese popcorn that might appeal to those seeking healthier options:
Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn:
Smartfood's White Cheddar Popcorn is widely available and often sold in single-serving baggies, making it a convenient option for those on the go. While some may consider it a standard or conventional choice, it can be a good baseline for comparing other cheese popcorn varieties.
Popcornopolis White Cheddar Popcorn:
Popcornopolis' offering is marketed as "nearly naked," suggesting a lighter coating of cheese. This product received mixed reviews, with some praising its mild cheesy taste and good saltiness, while others found it underwhelming compared to fluffier varieties. It's a middle-of-the-road option that might satisfy those looking for a balance between flavor and health.
Damn Good Popcorn's Gourmet Cheddar Cheesy Popcorn:
Available on Amazon, this popcorn has received rave reviews from some customers, who claim it's the "best cheese popcorn" they've ever had. However, it's been described as a bit expensive, and some reviews mention issues with freshness and staleness. It might be worth trying a smaller batch first to see if it meets your expectations for taste and quality.
Homemade Cheese Popcorn:
If you're concerned about the ingredients and health profile of pre-made cheese popcorn, you might want to consider making your own. You can experiment with different types of cheddar cheese powder, nutritional yeast, herbs, and spices to find a combination that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs. This option gives you complete control over the ingredients and can be a fun way to customize your cheese popcorn experience.
Renee's Cheesy Corn:
Available on Amazon, Renee's Cheesy Corn has been praised by some as the "cheesiest popcorn" they've ever had, sampling many cheese popcorns from various vendors. While it may not be the most affordable option, it's worth considering if you're seeking a potent cheese experience.
When making a decision, it's always a good idea to read the ingredient lists and nutrition labels to ensure the product aligns with your health and dietary goals. Enjoy your cheese popcorn journey!
Salami's Perfect Cheese Partners: A Tasty Guide
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
There are many options for cheese popcorn available, but it is subjective as to which is the best. Some popular options include:
- Garrett Popcorn Shops' CheeseCorn
- City Pop's Cheddar Corn
- Indiana Popcorn (available on Amazon)
- Renee's Cheesy Corn (available on Amazon)
- Damn Good Popcorn's Gourmet Cheddar Cheesy Popcorn (available on Amazon)
If you want to make cheese popcorn at home, you can use cheddar cheese powder and add herbs and spices to taste. Some suggestions include nutritional yeast, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and popcorn salt.
Some popular store-bought cheese popcorn brands include Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn, Trader Joe's, Popcornopolis, Target's Good & Gather, Costco's Kirkland, and G.H. Cretors.
When choosing the best cheese popcorn, you may want to consider the flavour, freshness, texture, and value for money. Some people prefer a strong, salty-creamy cheddar cheese flavour, while others may opt for a lighter coating of cheese. Freshness and texture are also important, as some people dislike stale or crumbly popcorn.
Yes, if you are looking for something different, you can explore options like G.H. Cretors' cheddar and caramel popcorn combo bag, or create your own at home by adding caramel sauce or other toppings to your cheese popcorn.
