Xanthan Gum Free Dairy Free Smoky Ranch Queso Popcorn
Smoky, tangy, and loaded with bold ranch-inspired flavor, this popcorn is the kind of snack that disappears before the movie even starts. Nutritional yeast does the heavy lifting here, delivering that savory, cheesy depth without any dairy — and without any of the thickeners or stabilizers that sneak into so many store-bought seasoning blends. Smoked paprika and cumin bring a warm, almost campfire-like smokiness, while dried dill and chives keep things firmly in ranch territory. A touch of cayenne rounds everything out with just enough heat to keep you reaching back into the bowl. The coconut oil acts as both the popping fat and the seasoning base, helping that spice paste cling to every single kernel for maximum flavor in every bite. It comes together in one pot and one bowl, which means less cleanup and more snacking. Whether you're serving a crowd or just treating yourself, this is the kind of homemade popcorn that makes the bagged stuff feel completely unnecessary.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the popcorn
- ⅓ cup popcorn kernels
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
For the seasoning
- 3 tbsp coconut oil
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried dill
- ½ tsp dried chives
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¾ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Heat 2 tbsp coconut oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 3 popcorn kernels, cover, and wait until all 3 kernels pop — this signals the oil is hot enough. Add the remaining kernels in a single layer, cover, and cook, shaking the pot every 15–20 seconds, until the popping slows to about 2 seconds between pops. Remove from heat immediately and transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
- 2
In a small saucepan, melt 3 tbsp coconut oil over low heat until just liquid. Remove from heat and stir in the nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried chives, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, fine sea salt, and ground black pepper until a uniform paste forms.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!