Watching a movie without popcorn is similar to eating bread without butter and could be even worse. In a nutshell, it’s an unbreakable mix that creates memories while simultaneously satisfying our hunger. However, to make it at home, you will need the best popcorn kernels as premade popcorn has high salt or sodium levels, posing health issues. But what is it about popcorn that makes it such a hit? Is it the enticing crunch, the traditional flavors, or the detonating boom that turns our kitchen into a miniature Fourth of July celebration? Making a decision is challenging. But one thing is certain: with a binge-me-now and tempting aroma filling the room; they are instant mood boosters. So, if you are looking for the best popcorn kernels, we’ve compiled a list of excellent options for you and the types of popcorn kernels.
Types Of Popcorn Kernels
Now, who’s ready to binge on some delicious popcorns? Check out our list of 17 best popcorn kernels for you below!
17 Best Popcorn Kernels
1. Best Gluten-Free: Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels – Original Yellow
Nothing beats the classic yellow popcorn, right? Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, the original yellow popcorn kernels are preferred plain, so you can add some flavors and enjoy some delicious toppings of your choice. Giving you the freedom to DIY your popcorn, cook them in an air popper or electric popper, and they’ll come out popping as your wholesome snack food. Don’t miss these classic pops! Here is an informative video that tells you more about the product. Pros
8-pound finest and premium popcorn kernels Ensure fluffier, lighter, and delicious popcorn 100% natural and whole grain Non-GMO verified and gluten-free Ideal to cook with sunflower and coconut oil
Cons
Expensive The kernels may be chewy.
2. Best Crispy:Snappy White Popcorn
High on fiber, low on calories — Snappy White Popcorn can be devoured the old-fashioned way, or with added flavors or toppings. Deliciously light, white, and crispy since 1940, these binge-worthy popcorn kernels were grown, processed, and packed in Iowa. With 4 pounds in a container, they are one of the best popcorn kernels to prepare in air poppers, stovetops, and electric poppers. So, if you are looking for nutritious popcorn kernels for your evening binge or picnics, you must give Snappy White Popcorn a try. Pros
100% healthy and whole-grain kernels Ensures less hull and a tender puff High on quality and flavor Ideal to prepare with cooking or vegetable oil The container is reusable for refills.
Cons
It might pop smaller than expected.
3. Best Vegan: Dutchman’s White Popcorn
That moment when the kernel shell gets stuck in your teeth — downright annoying, right? Hence why you must try Dutchman’s White Popcorn. It guarantees to be less corny and more delicious with minimal hull experience. And given how kernel shells can be a choking hazard for little ones, this premium and healthy popcorn kernels promise no such irritating moments, only sweet and tender pops for the entire family. And as for the aroma — it is absolutely irresistible! Pros
4-pound popcorn kernels refill plastic bag Ensures light, crispy, and medium-sized puff Naturally-grown, vegan, keto and kosher-certified Free from gluten, preservatives, and GMO Suitable to use in a microwave, electric popper, air popper or stovetop
Cons
Expensive It’s not completely hulless.
4. Best Low-Calorie: Bob’s Red Mill Resealable Whole White Popcorn
Such crunch, much wow! You’ll never want to go back to your regular or microwave popcorn packs after giving these healthy white popcorn kernels a try. Why? Ultra-soft and delightfully crispy outside, they’ll make every bite a crunch fest for you. Plus, they guarantee a full burst of hulless corn blossoms for your movie night, picnics, and get-togethers. Want to make them extra healthy and flavorful? Top it with canola oil or olive oil or sprinkle on some seasonings like nutritional yeast, paprika, etc. for a finger-licking binge. Pros
Low on calories and high on fiber Whole-grain and nutritious popcorn kernels Guarantees fluffy, light, and delicious puff Suitable to pop in an air popper, microwave, pan, etc. The package is resealable and easy-to-use.
Cons
Expensive
5. Best Pre-Seasoned:Great Northern Popcorn
Making popcorn can’t get more effortless than this! These pre-packed flavored popcorn kernels are super easy and quick to cook. All you have to do is open, pour, and watch it pop within seconds! With no mess of measuring cups or adding salt or butter, get ready to have multiplex-quality popcorn at home, anytime. Fluffiest to the core and promising a mouth-watering experience with every use, the oil is low-melt, and the aroma is compellingly delicious and delightful too. Pop and serve today! Pros
Gourmet, extra-fine, and premium-quality popcorn kernels Free from gluten and diacetyl Pre-seasoned with butter and salt Pre-measured pack ensures quantity for all Ideal for cooking in a pan, air popper, or electric popper
Cons
It may be a bit salty for some.
6. Best For Microwave:Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn
Have you messed up your popcorn-making experience due to the measurements? Let Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn be your new go-to. They are pre-measured and taste just like the ones at the movies! Yep, satiate your popcorn cravings as many times as you like with these no-fuss and quick-to-cook packets. Also, they are 100% organic with no artificial or harmful ingredients included, thus making it a healthy snack for you and your family! Now, who’s ready to pour, pop, and savor some binge-worthy popcorn? Pros
Pre-measured ingredients sourced from Iowa and Missouri Includes seasoning salt and butter-flavored coconut oil 100% vegan and kosher-certified Free from GMO, gluten, and trans fat Ideal for cooking in a microwave and saucepan
Cons
It may be slightly salty and chewy.
7. Best Nutritious:Arrowhead Mills Organic Popcorn
Are you looking for the best organic popcorn kernels? Then you must try Arrowhead Mills Organic Popcorn. Other than being organic, they are rich in fiber and other nutritious ingredients, thus ensuring a healthy binge be it during the movie night, picnics, or birthday parties. Popping up white and beautiful, just like snowflakes, they are soft and crispy too. So, if you are health-conscious but can’t handle your popcorn cravings, these organic popcorn kernels are a great option for you. Pros
Premium quality whole-grain white popcorn USDA-certified organic and nutritious Non-GMO and gluten-free (certified) Suitable for cooking with all types of oils.
Cons
Expensive It may be slightly chewy rather than crispy.
8. Best For Caramelizing:Hoosier Hill Farm Mushroom Gourmet
Craving for some delicious caramel popcorn? Then get ready to fill your popcorn buckets! Because these mushroom popcorn kernels are ideal for caramelizing and other sweet flavors. Promises the fluffiest, crunchiest, and the healthiest experience in every bite, you’ll regret not knowing about these earlier! Are you wondering how they are healthy? Every popped popcorn is rich in cyanidin and anthocyanin, which are high in antioxidants, thus making them worth the binge. Also, let us warn you — they have a deliciously sweet taste, so you might get addicted instantly! Give them a try. Pros
High in fiber white mushroom popcorn kernels Ensures excellent texture, taste, and quality Ideal for cooking in a microwave or stovetop Non-GMO and guarantees a mouth-watering experience.
Cons
It may be slightly chewy. You may find some unpopped kernels.
9. Best Easy-To-Digest:Black Jewell Original Black Popcorn
Not just any regular popcorn, this one claims to taste richer, crispier, and yummier than all! Blooming into white, fluffy, and small-sized popcorn, they are a great option for decorations or toppings as well. And since the kernels are small, they have no hulls, which means no more shells getting stuck in your teeth (yay!). Making movie nights memorable and snack time fun for kids, these kernels are rich in antioxidants and are easy to digest. Still, want to give these a miss? Pros
100% whole-grain and tender popcorn kernels Grown in fertile midwestern soil with pure water Non-GMO-verified, cholesterol-free, and gluten-free Ideal for cooking in a saucepan or pots
Cons
It takes longer to pop. It’s not recommended to cook these in the microwave.
10. Best Easy-To-Make:Paragon Country Harvest Yellow Popcorn
These kernels bloom into large puffs with wings! Known as butterfly popcorn for their irregular wing-like shape, they vary in size and are ideal for festivals, carnivals, and parties. However, that does not mean you cannot binge them at home! These yellow popcorn kernels by Paragon are easy-to-make, light, and irresistibly delicious enough for you to get hooked on instantly. So, if you are looking for tastier popcorn kernels, these butterfly popcorn kernels will be a great choice! Also, they are ideal for gifting a popcorn lover too. Pros
Tender yet crunchy popcorn kernel Premium-quality and cost-effective Ensures fluffy, tasty, and non-chewy popcorn Pops best in a saucepan, pot, electric popper, or air popper.
Cons
The kernels may be slightly bland.
11. Nostalgia Hot Air & Kettle Kit With Popcorn Kernels
Planning a movie night with bae, or are friends coming over? You’ll need something more than just plain popcorn. Here’s a kit by Nostalgia that includes popcorn kernels, along with butter-flavored oil, and 3 lip-smacking seasonings (white cheddar, ranch, and nacho cheese) to pamper the taste buds. Surprise your guests with theatre-style popcorn at home and watch them indulge, savor, and devour the crunchy feast with endless “mmm”s and “wow”s. Turning plain popcorn into pure indulgence in the comfort of your home, get set popping with Nostalgia ASAP! Pros
Soft and crispy popcorn kernels Butter oil is gluten-free and diacetyl-free No MSG included in the products Suitable for cooking in a hot air popper or kettle
Cons
The added seasonings may have a mild taste.
12. Anthony’s Organic Yellow Popcorn Kernels
Munch on a bowl full of popcorn, the organic way! Yep, your snack time can’t get healthier than this as Anthony’s Organic Yellow Popcorn Kernels packs a healthy boost for your system. Rich in fibers and polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties, it is easy to digest and taste delicious too. Dash on some herbs, and if you feel like pampering your appetite, you can add some extra butter as well — the brand guarantees a healthy indulgence only. A great option if you are on a diet or into healthy-eating, now, popcorn can be on your daily snack list too. Pros
Crispy, fluffy, and large popcorn kernels Can be served plain or with seasonings Non-GMO and gluten-free Safe to cook in a microwave, stovetop, or air popper
Cons
It may be chewy.
13. Amish Country Popcorn
Pop the corn, just like old times! Packed with different colors and types of popcorn kernels, your snack time will never be plain and boring again. The set includes mushroom, white, extra-large caramel, red, and more types of popcorn kernels that’ll thrill up every popcorn lover out there. Plus, these are absolutely non-toxic, low on calories, and come with a recipe book for you to explore endless popcorn dishes forever! Also, if you are looking for a gift for your foodie friend, then Amish Country Popcorn Set would be a great option too. Don’t skip it! Pros
100% natural and healthy popcorn kernels Vegan, kosher-verified, dairy-free, and gluten-free Free from preservatives, tree nut, peanuts, allergens, additives, and more Ideal for cooking in a microwave, saucepan, pots, etc.
Cons
More chewy than crispy The flavors are extremely mild.
14. Jolly Time Yellow Popcorn Kernels
Do you like your popcorn, classic, and non-flavored? Then Jolly time Yellow Popcorn Kernels will be your ultimate forever. Preserving the original taste of popcorn in its premium and 100% whole-grain kernels, the brand has been adding a crunch to everyone’s evening snack since 1914. Promising a jolly time every time you open the resealable packets, these yellow popcorn kernels are high in fiber, protein, and easy-to-digest too. And did we mention how fluffy, crispy, and irresistible they are? You can enjoy them with seasonings and toppings as well. Pop back to the classics with the best! Pros
Non-GMO and gluten-free Nutritious yellow popcorn kernels Tender on the inside and crispy on the outside Suitable for cooking in a microwave, hot air popper, stovetops, etc.
Cons
Small-sized kernels Flimsy packaging
15. Wabash Valley Farms Popcorn Kernels
If you thought pouring chocolate, cheese, or caramel on any popcorn would give you a theatre-like experience at home, then you are highly mistaken! To make your indulgence worth it, you need extra-large mushroom popcorn kernels. Wabash Valley Farms Popcorn Kernels not only burst out round, unique, and over-sized but are bulky enough to handle a rich coating of flavors too. Just what you need to add to your Sunday or cheat day! Bite into these delicious pops and satiate your appetite and soul with a satisfying crunch today. Pros
Pops completely in 3 minutes Healthy, fluffy and nutritious mushroom kernels No added chemicals, gluten-free, and non-GMO Safe for cooking in a microwave or stovetop
Cons
The popcorn may have chewy hulls.
16. Princeton Popcorn Mushroom Popcorn Kernels
If small or butterfly popcorns are not making you pop in joy, then mushroom kernels could be the one for you! Like these kernels by Princeton Popcorn, for instance, are large and bulkier, unlike other popcorns out there. Popping into an over-sized mushroom-like shape, they guarantee the perfect combo of soft and crispiness. Savor them plain with butter and salt or straight up add caramel if you like, these popcorn kernels were carefully picked to deliver the ideal corny taste and crunch to you. Need we say more? Pros
Delicious, healthy, and high-quality popcorn kernels Free from preservatives and high fructose corn syrup Ideal for cooking in hot oil, air popper or stovetop They soak up the flavors or coating rather than breaking.
Cons
The kernels will take longer to pop.
17. Quinn Popcorn Kernels
Lastly, these popcorn kernels by Quinn promise to pop fluffy, crispy, and big! Whether you are planning a movie night, game night, or birthday party for a popcorn lover, these will not only pop delicious popcorn but will make a great gift too. With the brand giving you complete transparency to see where the popcorn kernels were grown and packed, you can be assured about its premium quality as well. Also, to give you a little secret— the brand offers several homemade recipes for you to explore. Now, why would you want to miss that? Pros
High-quality and unflavored Healthy yellow butterfly popcorn kernel Free from toxic chemicals and artificial ingredients Ideal for cooking in an air popper, saucepan or pot
Cons
Expensive
There you go, those are the 17 best popcorn kernels for every popcorn lover out there! Do you still need assistance with buying the best popcorn kernels? Read on.
How To Choose The Right Popcorn Kernels?
Here are some tips for you:
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sakshi John has put down her blog and content writing skills to produce a list of the best popcorn kernels to consume at home and satisfy your snack cravings. She has provided information on the many varieties of popcorn kernels and a buying guide to help you make the best choice when purchasing one, and also answers some frequent questions. To compile this list of popcorn kernels, she researched several platforms for each product and went through the customer experiences.
