Cinnamon Bun Popcorn
There’s something magical about the combination of cinnamon and sugar, especially when it’s drizzled with a creamy icing. This Cinnamon Bun Popcorn recipe brings together that warm, cozy flavor we all love in a cinnamon roll but with the irresistible crunch of popcorn. I first made this on a whim, looking for a quick treat to share during our family movie night. Little did I know it would become an instant hit!
As soon as I set the bowl on the table, it was love at first bite. The kids kept asking for more, and even my husband, who’s not big on sweets, couldn’t resist. The best part? This recipe is so simple, which is a huge win for busy days. I love how it fills the kitchen with the scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, making everyone excited to snack.
Since that first batch, Cinnamon Bun Popcorn has become a staple in our house for all kinds of occasions. Whether it’s a cozy weekend treat, a quick fix for sweet cravings, or something special for guests, this recipe has us covered. The popcorn is crispy, the cinnamon-sugar coating is sweet but not too much, and the icing adds the perfect finishing touch. I’m thrilled to share this with you because I just know it’ll be a hit in your home too!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I use microwave popcorn?
Yes, microwave popcorn works just fine. Just be sure to get the plain or lightly salted kind so it doesn’t interfere with the cinnamon bun flavor.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative, and use a plant-based milk for the icing.
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crunchy for up to two days.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate crunch and flavor.
Is there a way to make it less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the sugar in the coating slightly, or drizzle a bit less icing.
What You Need to Make Cinnamon Bun Popcorn
Ingredients:
8 cups popped popcorn (plain or lightly salted)
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tbsp milk (for the icing)
Equipment:
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl (for mixing the icing)
Spoon or whisk
Baking sheet (optional, for spreading out the popcorn to cool)
How to Make Cinnamon Bun Popcorn
Prepare the popcorn – If you’re starting with unpopped kernels, pop about 8 cups worth. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
Make the cinnamon-sugar coating – In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until combined.
Coat the popcorn – Pour the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the popcorn and gently toss to ensure even coating.
Prepare the icing – In another small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of milk. Whisk until smooth and drizzle-able.
Drizzle and serve – Drizzle the icing over the coated popcorn, give it a gentle toss to coat, and enjoy immediately.
Tips for Making the Best Cinnamon Bun Popcorn
Pop fresh popcorn – Freshly popped popcorn gives the best crunch, so if you have an air-popper or stovetop popcorn, that’s ideal.
Use a light hand with the icing – A little drizzle goes a long way, so don’t go overboard unless you love extra sweetness.
Experiment with flavors – For a fun twist, try adding a dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.
Avoid sogginess – If you feel the popcorn is getting too soft after the icing, spread it out on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes to let it dry a bit.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Made this for a family movie night, and everyone went wild for it! Quick, easy, and so yummy!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Delicious, but a bit too sweet for me. Next time, I’ll reduce the icing drizzle. Still loved the flavor!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings! The kids now request it every time we have popcorn.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Such a fun twist on popcorn! Great for busy days when I need a treat that’s simple and fast.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Really good! I added some chopped pecans, and it was a nice addition.”
Printable Recipe
Cinnamon Bun Popcorn
Cinnamon Bun Popcorn combines the sweet, comforting flavors of a cinnamon bun with the satisfying crunch of popcorn. This quick and easy snack is perfect for family movie nights or as a sweet treat anytime. Coated in a cinnamon-sugar mix and drizzled with icing, this popcorn is bound to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn (plain or lightly salted)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk (for the icing)
- Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl (for mixing the icing)
- Spoon or whisk
- Baking sheet (optional, for spreading out the popcorn to cool)
Instructions
- Prepare the popcorn – If you’re starting with unpopped kernels, pop about 8 cups worth. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the cinnamon-sugar coating – In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until combined.
- Coat the popcorn – Pour the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the popcorn and gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Prepare the icing – In another small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of milk. Whisk until smooth and drizzle-able.
- Drizzle and serve – Drizzle the icing over the coated popcorn, give it a gentle toss to coat, and enjoy immediately.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If this Cinnamon Bun Popcorn made you smile, don’t keep it to yourself! Share the recipe on social media or save it for your next movie night. There’s something so wonderful about spreading the joy of good food, and who doesn’t love a sweet snack that’s easy to make? Tag your friends, whip up a batch, and let’s make every movie night a little sweeter!
