Campfire Popcorn: A Fun and Easy Treat for Every Camper
Janine Pettit, creator of Girl Camper, shows how to make the perfect popcorn at the campground, complete with step-by-step instructions.
There’s nothing quite like the simple joy of fresh popcorn by the campfire. Whether you’re camping with family, friends, or solo, this quick and easy snack is sure to be a hit. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own delicious campfire popcorn, plus some fun flavor ideas to mix things up!
What You’ll Need:
- 2-inch deep aluminum foil pan
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Vegetable oil
- Popcorn kernels
- Long-handled tongs
- Another pan (for easy handling)
- Your favorite seasonings and toppings
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Coat the bottom of the aluminum foil pan with a generous layer of vegetable oil.
- Add the Kernels: Pour in an even, single layer of popcorn kernels. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even popping.
- Seal the Foil: Cover the pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil, cinching the edges securely to trap the steam.
- Place on Hot Coals: Move the logs in your campfire aside to create a bed of hot coals. Place the foil-covered pan directly on the coals—avoiding open flames—to prevent burning.
- Shake as It Pops: Using long-handled tongs, gently shake the pan back and forth, similar to making stovetop popcorn. You'll start to hear the kernels pop quickly!
- Remove and Open Carefully: Once the popping slows down, remove the pan from the coals and set it inside another pan to cool slightly. Carefully peel back the foil to release the steam—watch out, it’s hot!
- Season and Enjoy: Sprinkle your favorite seasoning over the popcorn, add a drizzle of melted butter if desired, and enjoy by the fire!
Flavor Ideas to Try:
Why stop at just salt? Here are some fun and flavorful toppings to take your campfire popcorn to the next level:
- Chili Lime Zing: Sprinkle chili lime salt and drizzle with melted butter for a tangy kick.
- Cinnamon Sugar Delight: Toss with a mix of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
- Garlic Parmesan: Shake on garlic powder and grated Parmesan cheese for a savory twist.
- BBQ Bliss: Sprinkle BBQ seasoning for a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
- Ranch Lover’s Dream: Use dry ranch seasoning for a classic, creamy taste.
- S’mores Popcorn: Toss with mini chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, and mini marshmallows for a fun dessert-style snack.
Making popcorn over the campfire is not only fun but also a great way to experiment with different flavors. Try out your own combinations and perfect your technique throughout the season. Happy camping!
