Orville Redenbacher, the visionary behind the brand, understood the importance of excellence in a singular focus.
Popcorn is often seen as the quintessential snack, especially after a long week, and many people keep a bag of kernels handy for cozy movie nights. However, homemade popcorn can sometimes lack the flavorful punch we desire. That’s why I was excited to discover that Orville Redenbacher’s, a well-loved microwave popcorn brand, has introduced a line of popcorn seasonings. I decided to sample five flavors, ranging from classic butter to indulgent sweetness, and here is my straightforward review of the Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn seasonings.
The origin of Orville Redenbacher’s
Chances are, if you’ve ever made microwave popcorn, you’ve enjoyed the creations of Orville Redenbacher. Known as the “Popcorn King,” Redenbacher was an American agriculturist devoted to perfecting larger, fluffier popcorn kernels. In the 1970s, his brand became a staple in American households, and Redenbacher himself was a familiar face in commercials, complete with his trademark bow tie and glasses. The brand’s product lineup includes options like classic butter, low-fat, whole grain, and plain kernels.
What are Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn seasonings?
The seasoning line features eight flavors to cater to both savory and sweet preferences. The available flavors are:
– Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn
– Movie Theater Butter
– Nacho Cheese
– White Cheddar
– Vlasic® Dill Pickle
– Ranch
– Buffalo Wild Wings® Buffalo Sauce
– Cinnabon® Bakery Inspired Cinnamon Roll
Nutritional information
Popcorn is a naturally low-calorie snack, especially when popped at home. However, toppings can sometimes transform it into a more indulgent treat. Fortunately, Orville Redenbacher’s seasonings are designed to be guilt-free, with each flavor containing zero calories per serving (a quarter teaspoon) and no fat. Additionally, these seasonings are gluten-free and free from artificial dyes, though they do have a modest sodium level (45–55 mg per serving).
My review of the Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn seasonings
Here’s a breakdown of my review based on the five seasonings I tried, ranked from favorite to least favorite. I recommend using a light touch when applying the seasoning, as the powder can come out quickly, leaving your popcorn looking a bit dusty.
1. White Cheddar
This flavor easily stood out at the top. It has a sharpness reminiscent of the Smart Food popcorn I enjoyed during my childhood. The white cheddar flavor was bold yet not overpowering or artificial, making me want to prepare another batch.
2. Nacho Cheese
For fans of bold flavors, Nacho Cheese is a great option. Its tangy profile with a slightly spicy kick reminded me of the cheese blends used in tacos. While it doesn’t replicate real nachos, it certainly adds an element of fun to your snacking.
3. Movie Theater Butter
This seasoning effectively recreates the essence of traditional butter-drenched popcorn. However, I noticed an aftertaste that was more cheesy than buttery, and the flavor was relatively mild, requiring additional seasoning. Still, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a taste of the theater.
4. Cinnabon Bakery-Inspired Cinnamon Roll
This unique flavor was an interesting concept but didn’t quite meet my expectations. The cinnamon note was present, and it didn’t have an overpowering scent, but it lacked the sweetness typically associated with Cinnabon flavors. While it’s a fun idea, it didn’t fulfill the dessert popcorn expectation.
5. Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn
While this flavor is decent, it didn’t leave a lasting impression. Perhaps my personal dislike for kettle corn influenced my view, but the dominant artificial smell was off-putting. It delivers both sweetness and saltiness but lacks any standout qualities. It can satisfy a sweet craving but lacks a distinct appeal.
Overall, Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn seasonings provide a fun opportunity to explore different flavors for your popcorn. The White Cheddar emerged as my clear favorite, and while the others varied in appeal, each seasoning offered something fresh without adding extra calories.