Easy Popcorn Balls Recipe
Introduction
Popcorn balls are a nostalgic treat that’s both easy to make and fun to eat. This recipe combines sweet marshmallows and buttery popcorn for a delicious snack perfect for any occasion. Add a little cocoa and sprinkles for a festive twist!
Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 tablespoon salted butter, plus more to butter baking sheet
- 10 ounce bag mini marshmallows
- 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Christmas sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners and set aside.
- Step 2: Butter a large baking sheet or use cooking spray, then spread the popped popcorn evenly over it.
- Step 3: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter, then add the mini marshmallows.
- Step 4: Stir constantly for about 5 minutes until the marshmallows are completely melted.
- Step 5: Stir in the hot cocoa powder if using, mixing well to combine.
- Step 6: Pour the marshmallow mixture evenly over the popcorn, coating it thoroughly with a spatula. Sprinkle with Christmas sprinkles if desired.
- Step 7: Allow the mixture to cool until it can be handled safely.
- Step 8: Use a large ice cream scoop (about 3 tablespoons) to portion the popcorn, then roll each scoop into a ball with your hands. Place each ball in a cupcake liner or wrap individually in plastic wrap.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the melted marshmallow mixture before combining with the popcorn.
- Try using white or colored sprinkles for different occasions.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of marshmallows slightly.
- To create peanut butter popcorn balls, mix 1/4 cup peanut butter with the melted marshmallows before combining with popcorn.
Storage
Store popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. For longer storage, wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 weeks. To enjoy after freezing, thaw at room temperature before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just chop them into smaller pieces to help them melt more evenly and quickly.
How do I prevent the popcorn balls from sticking to my hands?
Lightly butter your hands or use cooking spray before shaping the popcorn balls. This will help prevent sticking and make rolling easier.
Print
Easy Popcorn Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 popcorn balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy Popcorn Balls are a fun and festive treat, perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a sweet, crunchy snack. This recipe combines buttery popcorn with gooey melted marshmallows and optional additions like hot cocoa powder and colorful sprinkles for a delightful twist. The popcorn balls are simple to make, shaped easily, and stored conveniently in cupcake liners or wrapped in plastic.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 tablespoon salted butter, plus more to butter baking sheet
- 10 ounce bag mini marshmallows
Optional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix powder
- 2 tablespoons Christmas sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners and set aside. Butter a large baking sheet or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the popcorn: Spread the 8 cups of popped popcorn evenly on the prepared baking sheet to create a uniform base.
- Melt marshmallows: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of salted butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly for about 5 minutes until fully melted and smooth.
- Add flavoring: Once the marshmallows are melted, stir in the 2 tablespoons of hot cocoa mix powder if using, and mix well to combine.
- Coat the popcorn: Evenly pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn on the baking sheet. Use a spatula to gently but thoroughly coat the popcorn. Add Christmas sprinkles on top if desired.
- Cool for handling: Allow the coated popcorn to cool enough so it can be handled with your hands without sticking or burning.
- Shape the popcorn balls: Using a large ice cream scoop (about 3 tablespoons), scoop the popcorn and roll it firmly in your hands to form balls.
- Serve or store: Place each popcorn ball into a cupcake liner or wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap for storage or gifting.
Notes
- Butter or cooking spray on the baking sheet helps prevent the popcorn from sticking.
- Hot cocoa mix powder is optional but adds a delicious chocolate flavor.
- Use a large ice cream scoop for uniform popcorn balls and ease of shaping.
- Allow popcorn balls to cool completely before wrapping to avoid stickiness and moisture buildup.
- Store popcorn balls airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: popcorn balls, easy snack, marshmallow popcorn, holiday treat, Christmas popcorn balls
