This Popular Movie Night Snack Is More Trouble Than It’s Worth in an Air Fryer

Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, offering a quick and easy way to whip up crispy fries, juicy chicken wings, and even desserts. From reheating leftovers to preparing a full meal, these handy kitchen gadgets have become a staple in households worldwide. The convenience they offer is unmatched, saving both time and effort in the kitchen. With little to no oil needed, they are also considered a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. But while they bring convenience, they also come with limitations and risks.

An air fryer expert has issued a stark warning against using the appliance to cook a specific food item—one that’s loved by many as the perfect movie-night snack. Despite the countless air fryer recipes floating around the internet, this particular food should never be attempted in an air fryer. It may be tempting to try new recipes and maximize the use of this beloved kitchen tool, but some foods just aren’t suitable for air frying. Understanding the risks can save you from damaging your appliance, wasting food, or even creating a potential fire hazard.

Not only will it fail to cook properly, but it could also pose a serious fire hazard. So, if you’re thinking of tossing some popcorn kernels into your air fryer, you might want to reconsider. Before you put your kitchen gadget to the test, let’s dive into why this seemingly harmless snack can turn into a big problem when cooked in an air fryer.

Why You Should Avoid Making Popcorn in an Air Fryer

Popcorn is a beloved snack, often associated with cozy nights in front of the TV or trips to the movie theater. It’s light, airy, and full of flavor, making it a favorite for both children and adults alike. Plus, with so many seasoning options available, it’s easy to customize to suit any taste preference. But according to Which? consumer journalist Grace Forell, attempting to pop popcorn in an air fryer is a recipe for disaster.

image 342 png — Don’t even think about it… (**Ika Rahma/Getty Images**)

Speaking on BBC Morning Live, Forell warned against using an air fryer for this purpose, stating:

“No, don’t try this one at home. Popcorn won’t cook well in an air fryer as most models won’t reach the required temperature to pop the kernels.”

That’s not the only concern. Forell also highlighted the potential fire risk:

“Popcorn kernels can also become lodged within the air fryer’s heating element, which may cause the appliance to short, creating a fire hazard.”

Air fryers operate using rapid hot air circulation, and while this works wonderfully for many foods, it doesn’t generate the kind of direct, intense heat required to pop corn kernels efficiently. In contrast, stovetops and microwaves provide the right kind of heat distribution to ensure even popping. Additionally, because air fryers don’t use liquid oil in the same way stovetop methods do, the kernels can become scorched before they even pop. This not only results in burnt, inedible popcorn but also produces an unpleasant smell that can linger in your kitchen.

In other words, while your air fryer might be great for crispy chicken tenders and crunchy onion rings, it’s definitely not built for making popcorn. Instead of risking your appliance or creating a mess, it’s best to stick to traditional methods that are designed for making popcorn efficiently and safely.

People Have Tried (and Failed) to Pop Popcorn in an Air Fryer

Despite the warnings, many air fryer enthusiasts have attempted to pop popcorn in their machines—only to face frustration and failure. The internet is full of experimental home chefs trying to push the boundaries of what an air fryer can do, but some experiments are best left undone. Popcorn, unfortunately, falls into that category.

One curious Reddit user took to the platform to ask if there was a workaround:

“I see everyone saying not to do it because of the risk of fire. Why can’t you put aluminum over the entirety of the hot plate like you should do with anything anyway to keep it clean? Or even more so, do that and wrap it around the top for the popcorn kernels to pop into?”

The responses poured in quickly, with many warning against the idea. One user responded:

“When a kernel flies into the fan and bangs around, and you swear for an hour while trying to get it out, you will wish you hadn’t. Please don’t.”

Another user pointed out an unpleasant side effect:

“Or when the air fryer scorches the popped kernels, the smell will also make you wish you hadn’t.”

And one person who had personally tested the method shared their experience:

“So I’m telling you, not from theory, but actual experience, that the air fryer does not work. If you’re trying to just pop a bag in without doing anything else fancy, 400 degrees [Fahrenheit] will get me right there on the edge, but not over the popping threshold.”

The general consensus? Air fryers and popcorn simply don’t mix. While the internet is full of creative recipes, not every cooking hack is worth trying. Sometimes, the traditional methods are the best ones, saving you from unnecessary mess and frustration. So next time you’re tempted to experiment, think twice before putting your air fryer to the test.

Popcorn in an air fryer?
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Social Media Reactions: What People Are Saying

This warning has sparked reactions across social media, with many users expressing their disbelief and curiosity.

🔗 Twitter Reactions 🔗 Facebook Cooking Groups 🔗 TikTok #AirFryerFails

💬 “Just found out you shouldn’t make popcorn in an air fryer… I learned the hard way. 🔥🔥” – @KitchenDisaster

💬 “Well, that explains the weird burnt smell I had last time I tried this! Never again!” – @JennyCooks

💬 “Wait… people actually thought this was a good idea?” – @MikeTheChef

The Safer and Smarter Way to Make Popcorn

Instead of risking damage to your air fryer—or worse, starting a fire—stick to these tried-and-true methods for making popcorn:

image 343 png — It’s best to stick to the microwave or hob when making popcorn (**Robypangy/Getty Images**)

Microwave Popcorn: The easiest and quickest method. Just place a pre-packaged bag in the microwave and follow the instructions.
Stovetop Popcorn: Add some oil to a pot, toss in the kernels, and cover with a lid. Shake occasionally until popping slows down.
Air Poppers: If you love air-popped popcorn, invest in a dedicated air popper, which is designed to heat kernels evenly and safely.

Final Thoughts: Not Every Recipe Belongs in an Air Fryer

Air fryers are fantastic for many things, but that doesn’t mean they can cook everything. While it’s tempting to experiment, safety should always come first. When it comes to popcorn, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Instead of testing it in your air fryer, opt for a safer method—your appliance (and your nerves) will thank you!

Additionally, avoiding improper use of your air fryer can extend its lifespan and ensure it continues to function optimally. Misusing the appliance for unsuitable foods can lead to frequent maintenance issues, which might shorten its efficiency over time. Also, sticking to recommended air fryer recipes means enjoying meals with the perfect texture, avoiding disappointment with undercooked or burnt food.

If you ever find yourself questioning whether a certain food belongs in your air fryer, take a moment to research or check the manual. Manufacturers provide guidelines for a reason, ensuring both safety and optimal cooking results. Sometimes, it’s best to rely on tried-and-true cooking methods rather than taking unnecessary risks.

What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever tried to cook in an air fryer? Share your experiences in the comments! 🍿🔥🔥

Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Image