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Popcorn Balls Recipe

4.6 from 144 reviews

Delicious and fun-to-make popcorn balls coated with a sweet marshmallow glaze and mixed with festive holiday candies. These classic treats are perfect for holiday parties, movie nights, or anytime you want a sweet and crunchy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Popcorn Mixture

  • 89 cups popcorn (popped, unflavored)
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 1 10-ounce bag of marshmallows
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • Holiday candies (optional)
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth.
  2. Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
  3. Combine with Popcorn: Add the popped, unflavored popcorn to the marshmallow mixture. Fold gently to coat all the popcorn evenly without crushing the kernels.
  4. Cool Slightly and Prepare to Handle: Allow the mixture to cool just enough so it can be handled safely without burning your hands. Lightly spray your hands with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Form Popcorn Balls: Scoop about 1 cup of the coated popcorn mixture and shape it into a firm ball with your hands. Repeat with remaining mixture.
  6. Set to Cool: Place the formed popcorn balls on a sheet of waxed paper or a silicone baking mat. Let them cool completely to set.

Notes

  • Use fresh popped popcorn without any butter or salt to get the best flavor balance.
  • For an extra festive look, mix in holiday candies or sprinkles before forming the balls.
  • Store popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
  • If the mixture cools too much and becomes hard to shape, warm it gently to soften the marshmallow glaze again.
  • Nonstick cooking spray on hands helps prevent sticking but alternatively, you can lightly wet your hands.

Keywords: popcorn balls, marshmallow popcorn, holiday snacks, sweet popcorn treat, easy popcorn recipe, festive popcorn balls