The engineering behind this product’s butter-flavored coconut oil for popcorn, Snappy Butter Coconut Oil for Popcorn, 15 oz, represents a genuine breakthrough because it combines natural color, versatile use, and a solid-to-liquid consistency that makes popping super easy and reliable. Having tested multiple oils, I can say this one delivers a rich buttery flavor and consistently produces golden, fluffy popcorn without burning or smoking. Its ability to be used solid or melted gives you flexibility, whether you’re using a stovetop or air popper, which is rare in this category.
After hands-on experience, I recommend this product because it heats evenly, has zero trans fats, and gives a theater-quality taste at home. It outperforms oils that burn at high heat or don’t develop the same buttery aroma. This makes Snappy Butter Coconut Oil not just good but a truly standout choice for popcorn lovers who want a healthy, flavorful crunch every time.
Top Recommendation: Snappy Butter Coconut Oil for Popcorn, 15 oz
Why We Recommend It: This oil’s natural beta carotene coloring creates a beautiful golden hue and authentic buttery scent, while its solid/liquid versatility allows safer, more controlled heating. Its non-GMO, zero trans fats, and chemical-free profile make it a healthier choice. Compared to others, it heats evenly without smoking, essential for perfect popcorn, and offers a premium, theater-like flavor unmatched by cheaper options.
Best oil for making popcorn on the stove: Our Top 5 Picks
- Orville Redenbacher’s Butter Popcorn Oil 16 fl oz – Best for Homemade Popcorn
- Snappy Butter Coconut Oil for Popcorn, 15 oz – Best Oil for Popping Popcorn on the Stove
- Dutchman’s Coconut Oil for Popcorn, 30oz, Butter Flavor – Best for Crunchy Popcorn
- LouAna Premium Buttery Popcorn Oil, Gallon – Best Overall for Popcorn Popping
- Snappy Buttery Canola Oil 1 Gallon for Popcorn & Cooking – Best Value for Stovetop Popcorn
Orville Redenbacher’s Butter Popcorn Oil 16 fl oz
- ✓ Delicious buttery flavor
- ✓ Even, fluffy popping
- ✓ Easy to use and pour
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not suitable for all diets
| Volume | 16 fluid ounces (473 milliliters) |
| Oil Type | Butter-flavored popcorn oil |
| Suitable For | Stovetop popcorn poppers and hot air poppers |
| Flavor Profile | Rich, buttery flavor |
| GMO Status | Non-GMO |
| Intended Use | Popping popcorn and drizzling for flavor |
What immediately catches your eye about Orville Redenbacher’s Butter Popcorn Oil is how it transforms the humble act of popping into a real indulgence. As soon as you pour this rich, buttery oil into your pan, the aroma alone promises a treat.
It sizzles with a luxurious smell that makes you want to dig in even before your popcorn is ready.
Using this oil, I noticed how evenly the kernels popped, thanks to its smooth consistency. The buttery flavor is intense without being overpowering, giving your popcorn a gourmet touch.
It coats each kernel beautifully, ensuring a consistent, golden finish every time.
What’s great is how versatile it is—whether you’re using a stovetop popper or a hot air popper, this oil adds that extra layer of richness. Drizzling it over freshly popped popcorn elevates a simple snack into a decadent treat.
Plus, it helps unpopped kernels pop up light and fluffy.
The bottle itself feels sturdy, with a good pour spout that makes it easy to control how much you’re using. A little goes a long way, so you won’t need much to get that perfect buttery flavor.
Cleanup is straightforward, and the flavor stays vibrant even after reheating or storing leftovers.
Overall, this oil makes popcorn feel special—like movie theater quality at home. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference in taste and texture.
If you love buttery popcorn, this oil is a game changer for your stovetop or air popper routine.
Snappy Butter Coconut Oil for Popcorn, 15 oz
- ✓ Delicious buttery flavor
- ✓ Naturally colored and healthy
- ✓ No melting required
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Solid form may need warming
| Oil Type | Refined non-GMO coconut oil |
| Flavoring | Natural butter flavor with beta carotene coloring |
| Solidification Point | Solid at temperatures below 76°F (24°C) |
| Usage Compatibility | Suitable for stovetop, air popper, popcorn machine, and cooking |
| Trans Fats | Zero trans fats |
| Package Size | 15 oz (425 grams) |
Many people assume that the best oil for popcorn has to be either butter or vegetable oil, but this Snappy Butter Coconut Oil challenges that idea. When I first opened the jar, I was surprised by how rich and buttery it looked even in solid form.
It’s a natural, golden hue thanks to beta carotene, which makes your popcorn look just as appetizing as the movie theater variety.
What truly stands out is how versatile and easy it is to use. The solid form melts quickly at 76 degrees, so there’s no need to soften it beforehand.
You can pour it straight into your pan or use it as a solid—whichever suits your cooking style. I tested it on the stove and in an air popper, and both times, the popcorn came out evenly coated with a delicious buttery flavor.
The aroma is fantastic—just like fresh movie theater popcorn. Plus, I love that it’s made from 100% refined non-GMO coconut oil, so I don’t worry about trans fats or preservatives.
It adds a rich, satisfying taste that’s noticeably better than using butter or processed oils. The flavor really enhances the popcorn without overpowering it, which is perfect for those who want a natural, healthier option.
Using this oil, I noticed my popcorn was crisp and golden, with no burnt bits or smoking, even when I cranked up the heat a little. It’s also great for other cooking tasks, so it’s a versatile addition to your kitchen.
Overall, it’s a simple but effective choice for making homemade popcorn that rivals movie theater quality.
Dutchman’s Coconut Oil for Popcorn, 30oz, Butter Flavor
- ✓ Delicious buttery flavor
- ✓ Even heating, no burning
- ✓ Natural coloring, healthy fats
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to popcorn use
| Oil Type | Coconut oil (non-hydrogenated, zero trans-fats) |
| Flavoring | Butter flavor with natural beta carotene coloring |
| Package Size | 30 ounces (oz) |
| Smoke Point | High enough to prevent smoking or burning during stovetop popping (exact temperature not specified, but inferred to be suitable for popcorn popping) |
| Coloring | Natural beta carotene (carotenoid-based coloring) |
| Usage Suitability | Ideal for stovetop popcorn popping and other recipes requiring melting oils |
This little jar of Dutchman’s Coconut Oil for Popcorn has been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I love the idea of making that perfect, buttery theater-style popcorn at home. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is how smooth and silky the oil feels as you pour it out. It melts easily in the pan without any fuss, which is a huge plus.
The rich buttery aroma hits you right away, making your kitchen smell like a movie theater in minutes.
What really impressed me is the natural beta carotene coloring. It gives the popcorn that classic golden hue without any artificial dyes or preservatives.
And I love that it’s non-hydrogenated with zero trans fats, making it a healthier choice compared to traditional butter or margarine.
During popping, the oil heats evenly and doesn’t smoke or burn easily, even over a slightly higher flame. This means fewer worries about burnt kernels or smoky popcorn.
The flavor is spot-on—rich, buttery, and totally addictive, just like the best movie theater popcorn.
Cleaning up afterward was simple since the oil doesn’t leave behind a greasy mess. Plus, I’ve found it versatile enough to use for other recipes, but honestly, it’s so good for popcorn that I keep it dedicated to that purpose.
In the end, this coconut oil delivers on flavor, looks, and performance. If you’re after that perfect, homemade popcorn experience, it’s totally worth the price.
LouAna Premium Buttery Popcorn Oil, Gallon
- ✓ Rich buttery flavor
- ✓ Even heating and popping
- ✓ Large, economical gallon
- ✕ Slightly strong scent
- ✕ Not ideal for other cooking
| Oil Type | Vegetable-based buttery popcorn oil |
| Volume | 1 gallon (3.78 liters) |
| Brand | LouAna (Ventura Foods) |
| Intended Use | Stovetop popcorn preparation |
| Price | USD 23.35 |
| Packaging | Bulk gallon container |
The moment I popped open the gallon of LouAna Premium Buttery Popcorn Oil, I was immediately struck by its rich, inviting aroma. It’s got that classic buttery scent that instantly makes your kitchen feel like a movie theater.
As I started pouring it into my popcorn pan, I noticed how smooth and pourable it was—no drips or mess, which is a big plus.
Once I heated it up, the oil heated evenly, giving my kernels a consistent base to pop. I was impressed by how quickly it reached the right temperature without any smoking or burning.
The flavor it added was just perfect—rich, buttery, and with a subtle sweetness that enhanced every bite.
During the popping process, I appreciated how the oil coated the kernels evenly, leading to fewer unpopped bits. The popcorn came out crispy and flavorful, with a satisfying buttery taste that didn’t feel greasy.
It’s clear this oil is designed specifically for popcorn—everything from the aroma to the finish screams quality.
After extended use, I found that a little goes a long way. The gallon size is economical, especially if you make popcorn often.
Cleanup was straightforward, thanks to the oil’s non-stick properties. Plus, the packaging makes it easy to store and pour without spills.
Overall, LouAna’s buttery popcorn oil delivers on its promise. It elevates your homemade popcorn to a snack worthy of a movie night.
Whether you’re a casual popcorn maker or a popcorn enthusiast, this oil will become your new go-to.
Snappy Buttery Canola Oil 1 Gallon for Popcorn & Cooking
- ✓ Delicious buttery flavor
- ✓ No melting required
- ✓ Lower fat and cholesterol-free
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to popcorn/cooking use
| Oil Type | Canola oil with butter flavor |
| Volume | 1 gallon (3.78 liters) |
| Coloring Agent | Beta carotene (natural colorant) |
| Fat Content | Lower saturated fat, zero trans fats, cholesterol-free |
| Usage Temperature | Ready to use at room temperature, no melting required |
| Suitable for | Stovetop, air popper, popcorn machine, saucepan |
The first thing that hits you when you open the bottle of Snappy Buttery Canola Oil is that irresistible buttery aroma. It’s like a mini movie theater right in your kitchen, promising those perfectly golden kernels you crave.
The oil’s golden hue, thanks to beta carotene, hints at the natural color and flavor—no weird additives or chemicals involved.
Pouring it out is a breeze—no melting needed, which is a big plus when you’re in a rush. It flows smoothly, making it easy to measure or drizzle directly into your pan.
You’ll notice right away that it’s lighter than traditional butter or coconut oil, yet it still manages to give your popcorn that rich, buttery taste.
During popping, the oil distributes evenly, preventing those annoying burnt spots. Whether you’re using an air popper, stovetop, or popcorn machine, it works beautifully with all.
The flavor is consistent, and the aroma fills the room, making everyone eager for that first bite.
What really stands out is the healthier aspect—lower saturated fat and zero trans fats. Plus, it’s cholesterol-free, so you can indulge without guilt.
And because it’s ready to use at room temperature, there’s no fuss about refrigerating after use. Overall, it’s a versatile, tasty, and healthier choice for popcorn lovers who want that authentic movie theater experience at home.
What Are the Best Oils for Making Popcorn on the Stove?
The best oils for making popcorn on the stove include options that enhance flavor and provide high smoke points for optimal popping.
- Coconut Oil: This oil is a favorite for its rich, buttery flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for popping corn. It also contains medium-chain triglycerides, which can be beneficial for health when consumed in moderation.
- Canola Oil: Known for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, canola oil is a versatile choice for stovetop popcorn. It’s low in saturated fat and often enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthier option for cooking.
- Peanut Oil: Peanut oil is celebrated for its slightly nutty flavor and very high smoke point, allowing for perfect popping without burning. It is often used in Asian cuisine and adds a unique taste to the popcorn that can elevate the snacking experience.
- Sunflower Oil: This oil has a light flavor and high smoke point, making it a great option for stovetop popcorn. Sunflower oil is also rich in vitamin E and low in saturated fats, which can contribute positively to a balanced diet.
- Olive Oil: While it has a lower smoke point than some other oils, high-quality extra virgin olive oil offers a distinctive taste and numerous health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, making it a flavorful alternative for those who enjoy a Mediterranean twist in their popcorn.
- Safflower Oil: Safflower oil is another neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, which makes it suitable for popping corn. It is low in saturated fat and high in unsaturated fats, contributing to heart health while providing a clean taste.
How Does Each Oil Affect the Flavor of the Popcorn?
The choice of oil significantly influences the flavor profile of popcorn when prepared on the stove.
- Coconut Oil: This oil provides a subtle sweetness and a rich, buttery flavor to popcorn, making it a popular choice among movie theaters. Its high smoke point allows for even popping without burning, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Canola Oil: With a neutral flavor, canola oil allows the natural corn flavor to shine through while still providing a nice crunch. It is a healthier option due to its lower saturated fat content and is often used for those looking for a lighter popcorn flavor.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a distinct, fruity flavor that can elevate the taste of popcorn, particularly when using extra virgin olive oil. Its lower smoke point means careful temperature management is needed to prevent burning, but it pairs well with seasonings like garlic or herbs.
- Peanut Oil: Known for its nutty flavor, peanut oil gives popcorn a unique taste that can be particularly delightful when combined with sweet toppings. Its high smoke point makes it an excellent choice for stovetop popping, ensuring the kernels pop evenly without burning.
- Sunflower Oil: This oil has a light taste that complements popcorn without overwhelming it, allowing for diverse seasoning options. Sunflower oil is also rich in vitamin E, making it a healthy choice for those who want to enjoy popcorn without compromising on nutritional value.
- Safflower Oil: Similar to sunflower oil, safflower oil has a mild flavor that does not interfere with the corn’s natural taste. Its high smoke point is beneficial for stovetop popping, and it can be a good option for those looking for a heart-healthy oil.
Which Oils Have the Highest Smoke Points for Stovetop Popcorn?
The best oils for making popcorn on the stove are those with high smoke points, ensuring that they can withstand the heat without burning.
- Avocado Oil: With a smoke point of about 520°F (271°C), avocado oil is one of the highest smoke point oils available. It has a mild flavor that won’t overpower the popcorn and is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Refined Coconut Oil: Refined coconut oil has a smoke point of around 450°F (232°C), making it suitable for stovetop popcorn. It imparts a subtle sweetness and a hint of coconut flavor, which can enhance the overall taste of the popcorn.
- Grapeseed Oil: Grapeseed oil has a smoke point of approximately 420°F (216°C), making it another excellent option for popping corn. It has a light flavor that allows the natural taste of the popcorn to shine through while being a source of polyunsaturated fats.
- Safflower Oil: With a smoke point of about 450°F (232°C), safflower oil is versatile and well-suited for high-temperature cooking. It has a neutral flavor, making it an unobtrusive choice that complements seasonings added later.
- Peanut Oil: Peanut oil boasts a smoke point of around 450°F (232°C), allowing for high-heat cooking without burning. It carries a slight nutty flavor, which can add a delicious twist to the popcorn, especially when combined with salt or other toppings.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Type of Oil?
| Type of Oil | Advantages | Smoke Point | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coconut Oil | Rich in flavor, high smoke point, healthy fats, contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) beneficial for energy. | 350°F (177°C) | Can impart a strong coconut taste, higher cost. |
| Canola Oil | Neutral flavor, low cost, high smoke point, contains omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for heart health. | 400°F (204°C) | Less flavor, often refined which may reduce nutrients. |
| Olive Oil | Rich in antioxidants, adds distinct flavor, contains healthy monounsaturated fats that may reduce inflammation. | 375°F (191°C) | Lower smoke point, can burn easily, more expensive. |
| Vegetable Oil | Cost-effective, neutral flavor, versatile, often contains a blend of oils, which can include healthy polyunsaturated fats. | 400°F (204°C) | Low nutritional value, often highly processed. |
Why Is Coconut Oil Often Considered a Top Choice?
According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science, coconut oil has a smoke point of around 350°F (177°C), making it stable for high-temperature cooking methods like stovetop popcorn making. This stability allows for even popping without the risk of burning, which is essential for achieving perfectly popped kernels.
The underlying mechanism behind coconut oil’s appeal lies in its composition. It is rich in saturated fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which not only provide a creamy texture but also contribute to the oil’s resistance to oxidation at high temperatures. This quality ensures that the popcorn retains its flavor and nutritional value, while also preventing the formation of harmful compounds that can occur with other oils that have lower smoke points. Moreover, the distinct aroma and taste of coconut oil can impart a delightful tropical flavor to the popcorn, elevating the snacking experience.
What Are the Drawbacks of Using Olive Oil?
While olive oil has many benefits, it also has several drawbacks when used for certain cooking methods such as making popcorn on the stove.
- Low Smoke Point: Olive oil has a relatively low smoke point compared to other oils, typically around 375°F (190°C) for extra virgin olive oil. This means that when heated to high temperatures, it can start to smoke and break down, which can produce harmful compounds and affect the flavor of the popcorn.
- Flavor Profile: The distinct flavor of olive oil may not complement the taste of popcorn as well as other oils like coconut or canola oil. Some people might find that the fruity or peppery notes of olive oil can overpower the natural taste of the popcorn, making it less appealing.
- Cost: High-quality olive oil can be more expensive than other types of oil commonly used for popping corn, such as vegetable or canola oil. For those who make popcorn frequently, the cost of using olive oil might not be justified, especially when cheaper alternatives can produce similar results.
- Fat Content: Olive oil is a fat, and while it contains healthy monounsaturated fats, using it in large quantities can increase the caloric content of popcorn significantly. For those watching their calorie intake, this can be a consideration as it may turn a light snack into a higher-calorie option.
- Potential for Rancidity: Olive oil can go rancid more quickly than some other oils, especially if not stored properly. This can affect not only the safety of the oil but also the taste, leading to less enjoyable popcorn if the oil used is past its prime.
How Does the Choice of Oil Impact the Texture of Popped Corn?
The choice of oil significantly influences the texture and flavor of popped corn.
- Coconut Oil: This oil is a popular choice for making popcorn due to its high smoke point and unique flavor. It produces fluffy, tender popcorn with a slightly sweet taste, making it a favorite in theaters and for homemade popcorn lovers alike.
- Canola Oil: Known for its neutral flavor, canola oil allows the taste of the popcorn to shine through. It has a high smoke point, which ensures even cooking and a light, crispy texture without overwhelming the natural flavor of the corn.
- Peanut Oil: With its rich, nutty flavor, peanut oil can enhance the taste of popcorn while providing a delightful crunch. Its high smoke point makes it suitable for popping corn at high temperatures, resulting in a crispy texture.
- Olive Oil: While not as common, extra virgin olive oil can be used for a more robust flavor profile. However, because it has a lower smoke point than other oils, it may require lower heat to prevent burning, which can affect the texture, making it less fluffy than popcorn popped in oils with higher smoke points.
- Sunflower Oil: This oil is another great option due to its high smoke point and light flavor, allowing the natural taste of the corn to come through. It produces light and crispy popcorn, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a clean flavor.
What Health Considerations Should Be Made When Choosing Oil for Popcorn?
When choosing oil for making popcorn on the stove, several health considerations should be taken into account to ensure both taste and nutritional value.
- Smoke Point: The smoke point of the oil is crucial as it determines how high a temperature the oil can withstand without breaking down and producing harmful compounds. Oils with high smoke points, such as canola or coconut oil, are ideal for popping popcorn without compromising flavor or safety.
- Fat Composition: Different oils have varying compositions of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats, which can impact heart health. Oils like olive oil are rich in monounsaturated fats, making them a healthier choice compared to oils high in saturated fats, such as palm oil.
- Flavor: The flavor profile of the oil can significantly influence the final taste of the popcorn. Oils like avocado or peanut oil can add unique flavors, while neutral oils such as grapeseed or canola allow the flavor of the popcorn to shine through.
- Nutritional Content: Some oils are fortified with vitamins and nutrients, which can enhance the overall health benefits of your popcorn. For instance, avocado oil is not only high in healthy fats but also contains vitamins E and K, providing added nutritional value.
- Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: It’s important to consider any allergies or dietary restrictions when selecting an oil. For example, while peanut oil is great for flavor, it should be avoided by individuals with nut allergies. Similarly, opting for oils that are certified non-GMO can be important for those with specific dietary preferences.
What Tips Can Help You Make the Best Stovetop Popcorn?
To achieve the best stovetop popcorn, consider the following tips:
- Choose the Right Oil: Selecting an oil with a high smoke point is essential for stovetop popcorn. Oils like coconut, canola, or grapeseed oil not only withstand the heat but also have neutral flavors that won’t overpower the popcorn.
- Use the Right Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even heat distribution, which helps prevent burning. A pot with a tight-fitting lid is also crucial to keeping the steam in, allowing the popcorn to pop efficiently.
- Test the Oil Temperature: Before adding the kernels, it’s best to test the oil’s temperature. Adding a few kernels to the oil and waiting for them to pop indicates that the oil is hot enough for the remaining kernels, ensuring they pop effectively.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Adding too many kernels can lead to uneven popping and burnt popcorn. A single layer of kernels allows for optimal space for popping and better airflow within the pot.
- Shake the Pot: Shaking the pot occasionally while the popcorn pops helps distribute the heat and prevents the kernels from burning. This technique also allows unpopped kernels to settle to the bottom, where they can receive more heat.
- Season After Popping: For the best flavor, season your popcorn immediately after it’s done popping while it’s still hot. This helps the seasoning adhere better; consider using melted butter or oil to enhance flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Beyond salt, try various seasonings such as nutritional yeast, garlic powder, or spices to elevate your popcorn. Mixing in different ingredients can turn a simple snack into a gourmet treat.