If you’re like me, you know that nothing hits the spot quite like a bowl of perfectly crunchy popcorn. But what if I told you that you could have a sweet and satisfying kettle corn that’s not only totally plant-based but also oil-free, refined-sugar-free, and made with nothing but whole-food ingredients? Sounds like a dream, right? Well, pinch yourself because this Vegan Maple Kettle Corn is all that—and more!
Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite show, need a snack for a movie night, or are looking for a little something sweet to curb those mid-afternoon cravings, this recipe is here to satisfy that crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty spot in the most wholesome way possible.
Popcorn is a Healthy WFPB Snack
Oil-free air-popped popcorn is one of the healthiest whole food plant-based snacks you can enjoy.
It’s made from just one simple ingredient—popcorn kernels—which are naturally high in fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients like B vitamins and magnesium. Air popping doesn’t require any oil, so you’re cutting out unnecessary fats while preserving the natural goodness of the corn. This means you get all the crunchy satisfaction without the added calories or processed oils that come with traditional popcorn methods.
As a whole food snack, air-popped popcorn is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and refined-sugar-free, making it an ideal choice for those following a clean-eating lifestyle or managing dietary restrictions. The high fiber content supports digestion, while the complex carbohydrates provide long-lasting energy without causing blood sugar spikes.
Plus, air-popped popcorn is a great blank canvas—it can easily be customized with your favorite seasonings, from savory spices to sweet maple drizzle, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome snack that’s as simple or as indulgent as you like.
Ready to pop? Let’s dive in!
Vegan Maple Kettle Corn Ingredients
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels, organic recommended
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or date syurp
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Whole Food Plant-Based, Oil-Free Kettle Corn
- Set a large pot with a lid over medium-high heat. Add 2 or 3 popcorn kernels and cover.
- When they pop, add the the remaining kernels and re-cover the pot. Keep the pot moving, carefully shaking it back on forth over the burner. Don’t leave it sitting on direct heat.
- As soon as you hear popping kernels, add the maple syrup and continue to shake the pot
- When the popping slows let the steam vent by moving the cover on the pan slightly. When the popping slows to 2 to 3 seconds between pops, turn off the heat.
- Season with salt to taste, shake well to combine, and transfer to a bowl. Enjoy right away!
Other whole food plant-based recipes you might like:
- Vegan Dark Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Bark
- Vegan Cranberry Banana Bread
- Vegan Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Date Caramel Sauce
- Vegan Double Chocolate Chip Cookies (WFPB, OIl Free, Refined Sugar Free)
- 5 Minute Vegan Chocolate Hummus (5 Ingredient & Oil Free)
Vegan Maple Kettle Corn
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels organic recommended
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or date syurp
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Set a large pot with a lid over medium-high heat. Add 2 or 3 popcorn kernels and cover.
- When they pop, add the the remaining kernels and re-cover the pot. Keep the pot moving, carefully shaking it back on forth over the burner. Don't leave it sitting on direct heat.
- As soon as you hear popping kernels, add the maple syrup and continue to shake the pot
- When the popping slows let the steam vent by moving the cover on the pan slightly. When the popping slows to 2 to 3 seconds between pops, turn off the heat.
- Season with salt to taste, shake well to combine, and transfer to a bowl. Enjoy right away!
Notes
Nutrition
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