Halloween Popcorn Balls Recipe
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
Scale
- 10 cups of popped popcorn (remove any unpopped kernels)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 bag (10 oz) of mini marshmallows
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Orange or purple gel food coloring
- 1/2 cup candy corn
- 1/4 cup Halloween-themed sprinkles
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn Base: Place your 10 cups of popped popcorn into a very large mixing bowl. It is crucial to sift through the popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels, as these can be a literal pain to bite into once the balls are formed.
- Step 2: Melt the Marshmallow Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is completely liquid, add the mini marshmallows. Stir constantly with a silicone spatula until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth.
- Step 3: Add Flavor and Color: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and a few drops of your chosen food coloring. Stir until the color is uniform and vibrant. This is what gives the popcorn balls their festive Halloween glow.
- Step 4: Combine the Ingredients: Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the popcorn in the large bowl. Use a greased spoon or spatula to gently toss the popcorn until it is evenly coated. While the mixture is still slightly warm, fold in the candy corn and sprinkles so they stick to the popcorn.
- Step 5: Shape the Popcorn Balls: Lightly grease your hands with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Scoop about 3/4 cup of the mixture and gently press it between your hands to form a ball roughly the size of a baseball. Place the finished balls on a sheet of parchment paper to cool and set completely.