5 Best Popcorn Kernels for Your Kitchen

Did you know that popcorn had long existed about 6,000 years ago? According to archaeological sites in Mexico and Peru, anthropologists have discovered that Aztecs were not only consuming popcorn but also use them as accessories during festivities. This astonishing discovery only proves that popcorn is not only a snack but a part of ancient history and culture.

Popcorn has gone through a long way, and we are lucky enough to be enjoying every variation it has to offer. It can be prepared in different ways and can be added with different flavors. Whether salt, caramel, or cheese, it goes along with anything you want to add as a flavor.

Make your movie nights or sleepovers even more exciting with only the best popcorn! Why settle for less if you can have the best by making your own bucket of popcorn at home? With this, we rounded up the best five popcorn kernels for your kitchen with the help of our team of experts to help you find the most tasteful kernel for you.

Best Popcorn Kernels Comparison & Rating

Want to Learn More?

As a consumer, aside from knowing the best brands and deals in the market, you must be a conscious consumer to get the best deals out of any product. Luckily, this review provides excellent popcorn brands that can help you decide what to buy according to the consumer experience. That said, make sure to click the yellow buttons to check out the best options on Amazon! Here are the five best popcorn kernels we have gathered just for you. Let’s dive in!

Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels

Orville Redenbacher's Gourmet Popcorn Kernels, Original Yellow, 5 lb, 12 oz
Specifications

Brand

Orville Redenbacher's

Dimensions

6.25 x 4.5 x 8.8 inches

Flavor

Gourmet Yellow

Weight

6 pounds

Rating: 99% Overall
99%
value for money
98%
packaging
99%
flavor
99%
quality
Pros
  • It consists of gluten-free, Non-GMO, and 100% natural kernels.
  • It comes in a jar that gives you a free container and easy to pour.
  • Made from 100% whole grain popping corn.
  • It can be prepared in a paper bag in a microwave.
  • It comes in a sealed and secure container.
Cons
  • It could not be stored for a long time if it was already opened as this could affect the quality of kernels.
  • A bit pricey compared to other brands on the list.
Verdict

Orville saves you from transferring kernels to storage since it comes with a bottle container. It is not only 100% natural but it also offers you delicious popcorn with a crispy outside and a tender texture inside each kernel. If you want the best out of your buck, this could be the optimal choice, especially if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly popcorn with a satisfying flavor.


Amish Country Popcorn

Amish Country Popcorn | 1 lb Bag | Baby White Popcorn Kernels | Old Fashioned with Recipe Guide (Baby White - 1 lb Bag)
Specifications

Brand

Amish Country

Dimensions

9.2 x 2.6 x 1.5 inches

Flavor

Baby White

Weight

1 pound

Rating: 94% Overall
90%
value for money
94%
packaging
96%
flavor
96%
quality
Pros
  • It comes with a fantastic recipe guide eBook.
  • It is non-GMO and gluten-free.
  • It is tree nut and peanut-free.
  • It is healthy as it is low-calorie.
  • It has small tender kernels with the right amount of crunch.
Cons
  • It is a bit pricey.
  • The popcorn easily becomes stale, so they need to be consumed right away.
Verdict

This brand ensures its consumers' organic options that are allergic-friendly and easy to prepare. Along with its recipe guide book, you no longer have to scour the internet to look for recipes. Altogether, this popcorn is perfect for movie night or any particular night as its consistency and quality are superior. Not to mention that you would no longer worry about the husks getting stuck on your teeth or having to find unpopped kernels at the bottom of your bowl.


Great Northern Popcorn Kernels

Great Northern Popcorn Company 8 Oz Kettle Premium Popcorn Portion Packs with Gourmet Popcorn Kernels, Coconut Oil, and Butter Flavored Salt, Case of 24
Specifications

Brand

Great Northern

Dimensions

14.3 x 13 x 4.9 inches

Flavor

Butter

Weight

8 ounces

Rating: 91% Overall
90%
value for money
94%
packaging
90%
flavor
90%
quality
Pros
  • They are healthy as they do not contain cholesterols, trans-fat, common allergens, and are made of Non-GMO ingredients.
  • They come in portion packs. This makes it more convenient and portable.
  • They’re primarily used in movie theaters, which only means that they are superior in flavor and budget-friendly.
  • The package also contains a multitude of buttery oil to add to your kernels as a nice touch.
  • The easy way of open, pour and pop does not affect the taste of the popcorn kernels.
Cons
  • Being left in the popper for a period of time causes it to feel dry, hefty, and chewy.
  • Is not evaluated by the FDA regarding its dietary supplement statements.
  • The packaging does not offer the condiments in separate packs causing some inconsistency in the taste of some kernels.
Verdict

Great Northern Popcorn Kernels gives you the best kernels to pop during a movie night or just a gathering. These kernels are made healthy and are always fresh as it has no trans fat and cholesterol. The packaging may be simple, yet the product is guaranteed to win your tastebuds! A delicious and healthy option available in arms reach.


Snappy White Popcorn Kernels

Snappy White Popcorn, 4 Pounds
Specifications

Brand

Snappy

Dimensions

14 x 7 x 7 inches

Flavor

White

Weight

4.2 pounds

Rating: 90% Overall
88%
value for money
90%
packaging
92%
flavor
90%
quality
Pros
  • It has been around since the 40s and has established integrity.
  • This popcorn is low fat, is Non-GMO, and flavorful!
  • It provides a decent amount of healthy dietary fibers.
  • The product consists of premium corn kernels.
  • The flavor is bright and tender.
Cons
  • It is not available for international shipping.
  • The kernel is not big enough once cooked.
  • The pack contains hulls which somehow affects the value of the entire product.
  • Five
Verdict

Snappy has been in the business for a long time gaining loyal customers. It does not only provide a consistent quality of our flavorful white popcorn kernels but also comes with a reusable 4-pound jar. This gives you the convenience you need as you can access it anytime without the problem of storing it after use. Most of all, despite the fact that its kernels are not as big as other brands’, it offers a distinct aroma and flavor which would make you beg for more.


Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels

5 Best Popcorn Kernels for Your Kitchen
Specifications

Brand

Franklin's

Dimensions

13.2 x 8.2 x 5.6 inches

Flavor

Butter

Weight

2 ounces

Rating: 90% Overall
88%
value for money
90%
packaging
92%
flavor
90%
quality
Pros
  • It consists of organic and non-GMO kernels.
  • It is best prepared on a popcorn popper or the stove.
  • It is rich in protein and fiber.
  • It does not contain junky ingredients.
  • It has a great butter flavor.
Cons
  • It contains artificial butter.
  • It does not have enough seasoning which could be an issue for those who want stronger flavors.
Verdict

Franklin’s popcorn has a savory flavor that can be achieved at home. It is convenient and comes in a pre-measured portion pack, it is vegan, gluten-free, and trans fat-free. This is perfect for outdoor as it offers convenience in its packaging. You must also note that this organic popcorn is sourced from family-owned farms in Iowa and Missouri, ensuring you of a quality kernel in each bite.

Popcorn Kernel Buyer's Guide

packaging

It is essential for consumers to consider quality packaging as it can affect the product’s flavor and consistency. The packaging should be sturdy, reusable, and environment-friendly.

price

Check the price before buying. You must be careful as some retailers tend to overcharge the market. Also, the price must compensate for the quality and quantity of the product.

reviews

It is encouraged that you must check for reviews online. A reputable brand must have good online reviews, ratings, and referrals. If you see that negative reviews outweigh the good ones then that should serve your basis if the product is worth buying or not.

preparation

Popcorn is generally easy to cook, but some just need a little more effort. In today’s busy world, everything is leaning towards instant solutions and shortcuts, and this is not bad for popcorn. Popcorn that is easier to prepare means you have more time to do other things.

ingredients

Healthier ingredients should be infused with your popcorn; this is especially vital for people who are health-conscious and who are leaning towards better lifestyle changes.

FAQs

Can it be cooked without a popper?

Yes. Popcorns can be prepared in various ways. If you don’t have the hot air popper, then you can make them using a microwave or just a stove.

What to consider when buying popcorn?

When buying popcorn kernels, there are several guidelines on what to consider. The first thing is that you need to ask yourself if it will suit your preference and if it is easy to prepare. If you are the type of person who considers the fat you would intake upon eating food, you would probably check the nutrient facts label.

What are the types of corn kernels?

There are two common and most known categories of popcorn kernels. These are the mushroom kernels and the butterfly kernels. Although we can distinguish it by looking at its size and color, people can determine it by looking at the popcorn’s shape. Butterfly kernels have an unpredictable and irregular shape, which can emerge like having wings. These are commonly served in movie theaters and markets. Mushroom kernels, on the other hand, have uniquely one form, being large and round, which is more appropriate for coating.

How do you prepare popcorn?

Popping kernels can be done in several ways. If you are using a microwave, you can make popcorn by putting the kernels in a paper bag. After that, add a bit of oil and put it inside your microwave for 90 seconds at maximum power. 

For people who are using a stove, you must use a pan or a cooking pot. The first thing you must do is to put oil and put your stove at medium heat. Soon after, include the kernels and cover the pan or pot with a bowl; this is to make sure that no kernels would pop out or spill out of your pot. If you no longer hear any popping sounds, your popcorn is ready to be served with any coating of your choice. 

Lastly, if you opt to use a hot air popper, oil is not necessary. You can just put the kernels in the popper, place a bowl or a container below its nozzle and wait for it to pop. During this process, you can always add up butter and salt or any coating you prefer.