Buttery Chai Popcorn (in the Microwave)

Chai-Spiced microwave popcorn with extra butter is a simple yet flavorful, 10-minute snack idea that's perfect for easy hosting and munching while streaming! First posted December 2017. Last updated December 2021.

Popcorn is one of my go-to quick snacks for entertaining. So, when planning my first-ever Christmas party, incorporating it into the menu was a must. This buttery chai popcorn is sweet, spicy (not in a hot kind of way), and a little salty. It's also easy AF to make. Depending on the size of your gathering, just pop up a few bags of your favorite popcorn and toss all the ingredients together. Don't strive for perfection with this recipe, as it will be almost impossible to evenly coat every single kernel, anyway! Thankfully, that isn't required for deliciousness. You'll get a bit of buttery flavor, sweetness, saltiness, and warmth in each delectable mouthful. Let's get into how to add flavor to microwave popcorn.

If you like quick and simple appetizers, try these, too!

• Easy Blender Salsa
• Baked Brie & Praline Dip
• Margarita-Infused Watermelon

My chai-spiced popcorn is one of my favorite quick snack ideas for hosting. It's also how to take Netflix and chill to the next level. An easy yet elegant treat that tickles all your taste buds. I love incorporating chai into all kinds of recipes to add some complexity. This microwave chai popcorn is but one of many hits! Check out my apple butter chai latte for cozy mornings and my chocolate chai baked oatmeal for busy ones.

What You'll Need to Make Chai-Spiced Popcorn

• Butter
• Chai Spice Blend
  • Allspice
  • Cardamon
  • Cinnamon
  • Clove
  • Ginger
  • Nutmeg
• Microwave Popcorn
• Sugar

This is the same spice combination I use to make my pumpkin chai snickerdoodle cookies and DIY latte dry mix. And you can make this a vegan chai popcorn recipe by using plant-based butter and vegan microwave popcorn.

Quick Video Tutorial

https://www.instagram.com/p/CXtUcOrl927/

How to Serve Popcorn with Chai Spices

I love enjoying this treat on a regular Saturday night with something melanated from my streaming queue but it's also a fave for parties. Think award show watch party menu ideas or NYE muchies. This homemade spicy popcorn holds it down. Try incorporating it into a grazing board setup or snack station. I like a variety of flavors and textures when making appetizers so this dish covers the crunchy factor and hits on several taste points.

Tips for this Recipe

• Can I make chai popcorn ahead of time? You want to stay ready so you don't have to get ready and I totally get it. But I will say that this instant chai flavored popcorn is best enjoyed hot and fresh. What you can do ahead of time is mix up the chai spices and even combine with the sugar so that all you have to do when the time comes is sprinkle and shake.
• Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes! Just use a vegan butter and vegan popcorn. Everything else is already plant based.
• How to store my DIY seasoned popcorn? In the event that you do have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container or zipper sealed bag. They will keep for up to two days this way. Note that the texture will not be as crisp.

I hope you get to enjoy this scrumptious low calorie popcorn snack at your next function or even And sharing is caring so be sure to pin this easy flavored popcorn recipe over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Recipe for Chai Popcorn

📖 Recipe