Easy Chocolate Covered Popcorn with Cocoa Powder
This easy chocolate covered popcorn with cocoa powder is crunchy, chocolatey, and super addictive—without melting chocolate. Made in minutes with simple ingredients, this sweet and salty snack feels store-bought but is 100% homemade.
Ingredients
- 8 cups air-popped popcorn plain, not flavored
- 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder Valrhona, Hershey’s Dark, or Ghirardelli
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or melted butter use virgin coconut oil for extra richness
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar or use maple syrup if preferred
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract optional but recommended
Optional: pinch of cinnamon, espresso powder, or cayenne
Instructions
Step 1: Pop the Popcorn
- Pop 1/3 cup kernels using 2–3 tbsp oil, or use an air-popper to get 8 cups popcorn.
- Avoid flavored/buttered varieties.
- Remove any unpopped kernels.
Step 2: Mix Cocoa Powder Blend
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- 3 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- Optional: cinnamon or espresso powder
- Stir until well mixed.
Step 3: Add Oil and Vanilla
- In a separate bowl, mix:
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Drizzle this over the popcorn while tossing.
Step 4: Sprinkle Cocoa Blend
- Sprinkle the cocoa-sugar mix over oiled popcorn in batches.
- Toss after each addition to coat well.
Step 5: Let It Set (Optional)
- Spread popcorn on baking sheet.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 15 mins for crunchier finish, or let rest uncovered for 10–15 mins if skipping baking.
Notes
To make cocoa stick better, always drizzle warm oil or syrup and toss popcorn while still warm. And for a clean method—mix inside a clean paper bag and shake like crazy for even coating!