Irresistibly Easy Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe: A Fun Treat in 5 Steps!

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Summary:

Marshmallow Popcorn Balls :This Irresistibly Easy Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe is the ultimate quick snack for parties, Halloween, movie nights, or whenever you need a sweet, sticky treat that’s easy to make. These gooey popcorn balls combine the crunch of popcorn with the sweetness of marshmallow, making them a hit for all ages. In just a few steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing dessert that can be customized with colors, flavors, or add-ins. This recipe is also a fantastic, hands-on activity for kids to help with in the kitchen!

Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 10 popcorn balls

Calories per serving: ~120 kcal

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Ingredients: for Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe

• 10 cups plain popcorn (popped, about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
• 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
• 4 cups mini marshmallows (about one 10-ounce bag)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
• Pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
• Food coloring (optional, for festive variations)

Instructions: for Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn

1. Begin by popping your popcorn. Air-popped or stovetop popcorn is best for this recipe as it doesn’t contain added flavors. Once popped, measure out 10 cups and place them in a large mixing bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels to prevent biting into them later.

Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows and Butter

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. For added flavor, you can stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. If you’re using food coloring, add it here to achieve your desired color.

Step 3: Combine the Marshmallow Mixture with Popcorn

1. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn in the large mixing bowl. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold the popcorn until it’s evenly coated. Be careful not to press down too hard, as this can crush the popcorn.

Step 4: Form the Popcorn Balls

1. Let the mixture cool for a minute or two so it’s easier to handle. Lightly grease your hands with butter or oil, and form the coated popcorn into balls about the size of your palm.
2. Gently press the popcorn together without crushing it. Place each formed popcorn ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

1. Allow the popcorn balls to set for about 10 minutes. Once they’re firm, they’re ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Equipment Needed: for Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper

Recipe Variations: for Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe

1. Festive Colored Popcorn Balls:
   Add a few drops of food coloring to the marshmallow mixture before pouring it over the popcorn. Try orange for Halloween, green for Christmas, or red and blue for Fourth of July.
2. Candy and Chocolate Add-Ins:
   Mix in mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes with the popcorn before coating it with the marshmallow. They’ll add extra flavor and visual appeal.
3. Nutty Marshmallow Popcorn Balls:
   Add chopped nuts, like peanuts or almonds, for a nutty twist and extra crunch.
4. Spicy Cinnamon Popcorn Balls:
   Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the marshmallow mixture for a cozy, spiced flavor perfect for fall.
5. Peanut Butter Popcorn Balls:
   Melt 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with the marshmallows for a deliciously nutty treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

for Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe

1. Can I make these popcorn balls without marshmallows?

Yes! You can substitute the marshmallows with honey or corn syrup for a similar sticky consistency, though the flavor will differ slightly.

2. How can I keep my hands from getting too sticky?

Grease your hands with a bit of butter, oil, or non-stick spray before forming the balls. This will make handling the sticky popcorn much easier.

3. Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe?

Microwave popcorn works, but be sure to choose a plain or lightly salted variety without added butter or flavoring, as it can alter the taste of the marshmallow coating.

4. How should I store these popcorn balls?

Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 days.

5. Can I make popcorn balls in advance?

Yes, you can make them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Notes:

• Popcorn Tip: Air-popped popcorn is ideal for this recipe as it doesn’t have added oils or flavors. This helps the marshmallow flavor shine through.
• Butter Substitute: Margarine can be used in place of butter if needed.
• Adding Flavor: A few drops of almond or peppermint extract can be added for an extra flavor twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Popcorn Ball):

• Calories: ~120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugars: 12g
• Fat: 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 40mg

Conclusion:

for Easy Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe :for Easy Marshmallow Popcorn Balls RecipeThese Irresistibly Marshmallow Popcorn Balls are the perfect blend of sweet, sticky, and crunchy, making them a go-to treat for any occasion. From Halloween parties to movie nights, these treats are easy to customize and fun to make with friends or family. Try adding colors, sprinkles, or other add-ins to make each batch unique. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this is one recipe you’ll come back to time and again!