This is a fun little project.
I have seen multi-colored popcorn in the grocery store before, but I wanted specific colors. I searched the internets, but couldn't find a great tutorial, so of course, I figured I'd make one myself :) That's kind of what I do.So, if you've ever wondered how to dye popcorn, this one's for you. And just in case you were wondering, this only dyes the kernels, the popcorn will still be white.
For step one, you will need:
- popcorn
- glass jars with tight-fitting lids (I used pint canning jars, which held about 1 cup of popcorn each)
- food coloring in desired colors
- water
Fill the jars with popcorn. Make sure to leave about an inch of headspace at the top of the jar -or more, if you are using larger jars! The popcorn will swell, which can make it pack tightly in the jar and it will be difficult to get out if you haven't left some room.
Add water. I just ran enough water in the jar to cover the popcorn and fill the jar, I didn't measure it.
Add food coloring. I used about twenty drops for my pint-sized jars, but if you are using larger jars adjust the amount accordingly. You're going to want to add enough to make your water pretty dark.
Now just let it sit for about 24 hours. I shook mine occasionally, and turned it upside down for a few hours at a time, just to make sure the food coloring got everywhere once the popcorn started sucking up the water.
On to step two!
For step two, you will need:
- paper towels
- baking sheets
- oven
This is pretty straightforward. Just drain the colored wate
r (I saved mine for making another batch down the road) and spread the kernels on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Then dry the kernels. I used the oven, set at its lowest temperature (170) for two hours, checking every twenty minutes or so. But you could also air-dry it, if you have the time and patience!
Now you have Christmas colored popcorn! Package it all pretty, and enjoy!
