Campfire Popcorn - 3 Ways

I love popcorn. I love the sound it makes when it pops and lightness of it in your hand. I love watching Ethan eat popcorn with two fingers on each hand picking up one piece after another and gobbling it up. Even Livi loves popcorn (we break off the 'fluffy' parts for her).

In preparation for our Great American Backyard Campout this weekend, here are some quick and easy campfire popcorn recipes sure to please everyone's tastes. I'm a big fan of caramel corn, and cheesy corn, but these recipes are just a little different and perfect for making and sharing. (Note, you could also make these on the grill, which is what I did for this dry run). The 'mix-ins' are great for kids to help with, but the campfire cooking should be done by adults. 

Basic Popcorn
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
¼ cup popcorn kernels
Salt

Directions:
Combine the vegetable oil and popcorn kernels in a disposable pie pan. Seal the pan using aluminum foil, making a dome shape on top so there is plenty of room for the popcorn to pop. Using a set of tongs, gently shake the pan until the popping stops. Let cool for a few moments, then open carefully and season with salt. 

S'Mores Popcorn

Ingredients:
Basic Popcorn
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
¼ cup confectioner's sugar
6 graham crackers halves (3 large crackers)
1 cup mini marshmallows

Directions:
Prepare the 'mix-ins' before the campout: in plastic ziplock bag, crush the graham crackers using a small frying pan or rolling pin. This is super fun for kids to help with. Then add the cocoa powder, confectioners’ sugar and mini marshmallows to the bag. Tightly seal the bag until read to use. 

When you're ready for your snack, prepare the Basic Popcorn recipe using the method above. Then once the popcorn cools, toss it with the 'mix-ins' from your ziplock bag and enjoy!

Hot & Smoky Popcorn
Ingredients:
Basic Popcorn
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon paprika 

Directions:
In a small ziplock bag or tupperware container, combine the spices and seal tightly until ready to use. 

When you're ready, prepare the Basic Popcorn recipe above. After the popcorn cools, sprinkle on the seasoning mixture, and toss to coat.

Trail Mix Popcorn
Ingredients:
Basic Popcorn
⅓ cup sliced almonds
¼ cup dried cranberries
⅓ cup dried chopped apricots
¼ cup chocolate chips

Directions:
Combine the almonds, dried fruit and chocolate chips in a ziplock bag before the campout - store in a cool place tightly sealed until ready to use.

When you're getting munchy, prepare the Basic Popcorn recipe using the method above. Once the popcorn cools, toss it with your trail mix ingredients and enjoy!