Popcorn Balls are fun, delicious and sticky treat that everyone will love! They’re perfect for any party, holiday or get together!!
This recipe has been a favorite since my kids were in grade school. My husband's Aunt gave me the recipe and I made the popcorn balls every Halloween. This year my adult daughter asked for the Popcorn Balls and when I told her they were on the list for the blog, she got excited so I made them. It warms my heart that my girls have loved them their whole life!
They are so easy to make and are very tasty! You will have great fun making these with your kids! If your family is a lover of popcorn, you need to try this delicious Caramel Corn, it's another family favorite!
What You Need
Unsalted popped popcorn
Butter
Marshmallows
Vanilla
Salt
M&M's (optional)
If you need another fun recipe to make with the kids at Halloween (or anytime), check out Chocolate Spiders!
How To Make Popcorn Balls
Start by popping the popcorn. I use a Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker, but you can use an Air Popper, microwave popcorn or make it on your stovetop. I have never used store bought popped popcorn, but it would work just fine! Move the popcorn to a large bowl with plenty of room for mixing the popcorn/marshmallow mixture.
Once you have the popcorn made, place the butter and marshmallows in a medium saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until butter and marshmallows are melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.
Note: I choose to melt the butter and marshmallows in the microwave. In a large microwave safe bowl, add the marshmallows and butter and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, then stir. If it needs a little more cooking time, heat in 30 second intervals stirring between each cooking time until the marshmallows and butter are melted and the mixture is smooth.
Next, stir in the vanilla and salt and mix well. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture and M&M's (optional) over the popcorn and stir, evenly coating the popcorn.
To form the balls, allow the mixture to cool a few minutes so you may handle, then butter or spray your hands with non-stick cooking spray and and shape into 3-4 inch balls (or whatever size you prefer) before the marshmallow cools.
Individually wrap the Popcorn Balls with plastic wrap.
Mixing Up The Fun
You may add a few drops of food coloring to the marshmallow mixture to make them festive for Halloween, Christmas, Birthday or any other occasion. Additionally you can mix in:
Fun sprinkles
Mini or Regular Sized M&M's (especially holiday M&M's)
Chocolate chips
How To Store The Popcorn Balls
Once you have the the Popcorn Balls wrapped individually, you may store at room temperature for up to a week.
I love that my adult kids still love the Popcorn Balls and their Great Aunt's recipe lives on in our family! The Popcorn Balls are great for holidays, parties, family gatherings, or just because they sound good! I hope you give it a try because they are Forkin' Good!
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