Kettle Corn

Kettle corn is a sweet and salty popcorn snack that originated in the United States, likely at fairs and circuses in the early 20th century. It's made by popping corn kernels in a large kettle with oil, then tossing the hot popcorn with a mixture of sugar and salt, which creates a light, caramelized coating.

🍳 View the full Kettle Corn recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Kettle corn is primarily a carbohydrate-based snack, with a moderate amount of fat from the oil used for popping. A typical 1-cup serving contains roughly 120-150 calories, providing quick energy but minimal protein or essential vitamins.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	130 kcal
Protein	1 g
Carbs	22 g
Fat	4 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	10 g
Sodium	100 mg
Potassium	30 mg
Iron	0.5 mg
Magnesium	15 mg
Phosphorus	30 mg
Zinc	0.3 mg
Niacin (B3)	0.5 mg
Vitamin B6	0.05 mg
Folate	3 mcg

Per 1 cup (30 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

What makes kettle corn unique is the delicate balance of sweet and salty flavors achieved by adding sugar to the hot oil, which caramelizes just enough to coat the kernels without burning. It's a nostalgic treat deeply tied to American carnival and fair culture, often enjoyed fresh from the popper.