DIY Microwave Popcorn In A Bowl

Learn how to make An easy, healthy and inexpensive alternative to microwave popcorn. This is how to make DIY microwave popcorn with just a bowl and unpopped kernels.

If you need an easier, healthier and cheaper alternative to microwave popcorn bags, you’re in luck today. We’ll show you how to make DIY microwave popcorn with just a bowl. It’s really just as simple as popping kernels in a bowl, adding salt and butter, and then getting creative with your toppings! Read on for the easy step-by-step instructions.

Microwave Popcorn Bowl – Healthy 5-minute Snack

Hi folks! I’m Amanda from Life at Cloverhill, and I’m so excited to be joining the Kenarry Creative Team. I love to share recipes, crafts and DIY projects that make my 1903 farmhouse feel like home. As much I enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, there are times when you just need a quick snack. It can be so tempting to turn to something quick and processed, but what if I told you there is an easy way to make a healthy snack in less than five minutes?

Popcorn Made Without Oil

DIY Microwave Popcorn not only satisfies those crunchy, salty cravings but with no oil needed there are fewer calories as well! It’s a whole grain, fiber-filled snack that is great for watching TV in the evening or as an afternoon snack for kids as well.

When we’re having friends over to watch a movie I like to use my usual Perfectly Popped Stovetop Popcorn but on evenings when it’s just my husband and me, this DIY Microwave Popcorn gives us just the right portions without the need for an air-popper. I’ve seen other versions that use a brown paper bag, but I rarely have those in our house, whereas I always have a bowl and there is less waste.

DIY Microwave Popcorn in a Bowl

What you’ll need:

• Popcorn Kernels
• Microwave Safe Bowl
• Microwave Safe Plate
• Optional: Butter and Salt

What are the best popcorn kernels to use in the microwave?

I have been loving this farmhouse blend of popcorn kernels I picked up on a trip to the St Jacob Farmers Market this summer.

How do you store unpopped kernels? 

Keep your popcorn kernels stored in an airtight container to keep them as fresh as possible. Stale kernels are less likely to pop and can turn chewy instead of crisp and crunchy.

Microwave Popcorn Bowl Tutorial

Here’s how to pop popcorn in your microwave. All you need is a bowl!

1. Pour Popcorn Kernels Into the Bowl

Pour ¼ cup popcorn kernels into a large microwave-safe bowl.

2. Cover the Bowl With a Plate

Cover the bowl completely with a large microwave-safe plate. If the plate is too loose, the steam will get out and the kernels will not pop.

3. Microwave The Popcorn

Microwave on high until the kernels slow down popping, up to 4 minutes and 45 seconds. Stay and listen to the popcorn, you want to stop it once there are 4 seconds between kernels popping.

Time will vary based on your climate, how powerful your microwave is and how fresh your popcorn kernels are.

WARNING: Be very careful when removing the plate and bowl. They’ll be very hot and you need to use oven mitts to remove it from the microwave. Lift the plate off immediately to prevent the steam from making the popcorn soggy.

4. Add Your Favorite toppings

I love to go the classic route, melting butter in the microwave and drizzling over the popcorn with a sprinkle of salt, and a quick toss!

Microwave Popcorn FAQs

This satisfying snack is fast, healthy and delicious – it always hits the spot when I’ve got a craving for something crunchy or salty.

I’m not the only one who loves eating this popcorn! With simple ingredients, I’m not worried about giving our dogs a few bites as well.

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More Easy Recipes

Stop by and say hi on my blog and check out some more recipes like these!:

Moist and Delicious Banana Bread

Easy Individual Ricotta Tiramisu Jars

White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

You may also enjoy these easy snacks on Ideas for the Home by Kenarry® –

• Baked Cinnamon Chips Recipe
• Spicy Sriracha Chex Mix: Hot Twist to Traditional Recipe
• Greek Yogurt and Peanut Butter Fruit Dip Recipe

Originally published October 2016. Updated October 2018.