Time To Celebrate Popcorn: A Star-Spangled Favorite

By Editor | July 1, 2026 |

It’s America’s 250th birthday and everyone’s invited to the party! As you plan your celebratory menus, be sure to include a true American original— popcorn. Popcorn burst into our lives hundreds of years ago, a real firecracker that still delights with its seed-to-snack transformation. Popcorn is a simple whole grain easily gussied up for holiday celebrations.

Try our featured Muddy Buddy recipe which calls for melted chocolate, peanut butter and butter poured over popcorn, then kissed with a generous dusting of confectioners’ sugar. This explosion of flavor is a sure party pleaser. Other favorites include: Red Hot Poppers, Popcorn S’mores, and Peanut Butter Popcorn Cups (below).

Bursting In Air

What makes popcorn pop? Popcorn differs from other types of corn in that its hull has just the right thickness to make magic happen. Each kernel of popcorn contains a small drop of water. When heated the hull allows pressure to build and eventually burst open.

See what makes popcorn pop here.
Learn more about the history of popcorn here.
Find out how popcorn gets from seed to snack here.
Read interesting and corny facts about popcorn here.

Popcorn & Ranch Dressing Score

Ranch dressing–aka “American Sauce”–is officially having a massive moment on the global stage. Soccer fans from around the world are reportedly going crazy for this American pantry staple. If you’re hosting a watch-party, give your bowl an upgrade by tossing fresh kernels with a fiery blend of buffalo seasoning, tangy ranch powder and a hint of celery. Keep the crowd cheering through every minute of extra time!

Blazing Buffalo Ranch Seasoning Mix

Ingredients

1 tablespoon ranch dressing or dip mix (from a 1 ounce package)
1 tablespoon seafood spice mix (or celery salt)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon powdered sugar (or sugar)
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon vegetable oil
6 quarts popped popcorn
Cooking spray, optional

Directions

1. In a small bowl, blend ranch dressing mix, spice mix, garlic powder, powdered sugar and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle with vegetable oil and blend until well incorporated.

2. Place popcorn in a serving bowl and spray lightly with cooking spray. Sprinkle seasoning mix over popcorn to taste and toss. Store leftover seasoning mix in an airtight container for future use.

Achin’ For Bacon

From breakfast staple to indulgent dinner ingredient, we can’t help our love of bacon. Its smoky aroma, crispy texture, and rich, salty flavor combines with popcorn to make an irresistible experience that keeps you coming back for more. Try Bacon Cheeseburger Popcorn, Bacon and Cheese Popcorn, Maple Bacon Popcorn Mix, and Bacon Jalapeno Popcorn.

Having A Heat Wave? Time To Chill

When temperatures soar you need to chill out in the most delicious way possible. Indulge in the perfect pairing of crispy popcorn and creamy ice cream, a whimsical combination that invites you to savor the sweet and savory moments of life. Try Popcorn Chipwiches and Coconut Popcorn Crunch Pie.