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Popcorn Calculator 🍿
Calculate how much popcorn kernels you need for your movie night or party
Popcorn Planning
How many people are you serving?
2 cups per person
Popcorn Requirements 🍿
8.0
Total Cups Popped
2.0
Tablespoons Kernels
0.13
Cups Kernels
4.0
People Served
Kernel Conversions
- • 1.0 oz kernels
- • 28 grams kernels
- • 1 tbsp kernels ≈ 4 cups popped
- • Expansion ratio: ~40x original size
Popping Tips
- • Store kernels in sealed container
- • Use oil for even heating
- • Heat gradually for best results
- • Account for ~10% unpopped kernels
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (2 cups)
Calories:62 kcal
Fat:0.8g
Sodium:1.2mg
Fiber:2.4g
Total Batch (8.0 cups)
Calories:248 kcal
Fat:3.2g
Sodium:4.8mg
Fiber:9.6g
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Portion Size Guide
Standard
2 cups per person
Typical home serving
Movie Theater
Small: 8-11 cups
Medium: 12-15 cups
Large: 16-20 cups
Cinema-style portions
Quick Conversions
1 tbsp kernels4 cups popped
1 cup kernels16 tbsp
1 tbsp kernels≈ 0.5 oz
Expansion ratio40x size
Perfect Popping Tips
🌽
Store kernels in sealed containers
🔥
Heat oil to 400-460°F (204-238°C)
⏰
Heat gradually for even popping
💧
Kernels need 14% moisture content
🍿
Expect ~10% unpopped kernels
🧂
Add salt to oil for even distribution
The Science of Popcorn: Complete Guide
Why Does Popcorn Pop?
Popcorn kernels contain about 14% moisture inside their hard hull (pericarp). When heated to around 400°F, this moisture turns to steam, creating pressure up to 135 PSI that eventually explodes the hull.
Kernel Structure
- • Hull (Pericarp): Outer transparent layer that holds moisture
- • Endosperm: Contains starch and 14% water
- • Germ: Innermost layer of the kernel
Nutritional Benefits
Air-popped Popcorn (2 cups):
- • 62 calories
- • 12.5g carbohydrates (2.4g fiber)
- • 2g protein
- • 0.7g fat
- • Rich in antioxidants and B-vitamins
Storage & Quality Tips
- • Store in cool, dry place in sealed container
- • Avoid refrigerator (too dry) or hot areas
- • Fresh kernels should have 14% moisture content
- • Cracked hulls won't pop properly
- • Test pop a few kernels before making large batch
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