Festive M&M's Popcorn Delights
These delightful Festive M&M's Popcorn Delights are a festive twist on traditional popcorn balls, perfect for holiday gatherings or as charming homemade gifts. This recipe, inspired by the comforting flavors found in Paula Deen's Holiday Baking Magazine, combines buttery popcorn with gooey marshmallows and vibrant red and green M&M's to create a treat that's as fun to make as it is to eat. With both microwave and stovetop methods, you can whip up these delicious bites in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for last-minute holiday celebrations! Wrapped in individual bags, they also make thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
N/A
Servings
180
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
miniature marshmallows
1 (8 ounce) package (None)
butter
4 tablespoons (Melted)
microwave kettle popcorn
1 (3 1/3 ounce) package (Popped)
M&M's (red and green)
1 1/2 cups (None)
Instructions
1
Start by popping the kettle corn in the microwave as directed on the package. Once done, remove any unpopped kernels and place the popcorn in a large bowl.
2
For the Microwave Method: In a separate large bowl, combine the miniature marshmallows and butter. Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth (this should take about 2 minutes).
3
Carefully pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and gently stir until all the popcorn is evenly coated.
4
Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes to make it easier to handle.
5
Stir in the festive red and green M&M's and let it rest for another 5 minutes.
6
Wet your hands with cold water and scoop a portion of the mixture to form into balls. Repeat until you have shaped 10 popcorn balls.
7
Store the individual popcorn balls in plastic bags at room temperature until you're ready to enjoy or gift them.
8
For the Stovetop Method: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the miniature marshmallows and stir continuously until they melt and become smooth.
9
Pour the popped popcorn into a large mixing bowl and drizzle the melted marshmallow mixture over it. Stir well to ensure every kernel is coated.
10
Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes.
11
Mix in the M&M's and let stand for an additional 5 minutes.
12
With wet hands, form the mixture into 10 balls. Store the popcorn balls in plastic bags at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
7g
Fat
25g
Carbs
1.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Festive M&M's Popcorn Delights?
They are a festive holiday twist on traditional popcorn balls made with buttery kettle popcorn, gooey marshmallows, and red and green M&M's.
What inspired this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by the comforting holiday flavors featured in Paula Deen's Holiday Baking Magazine.
How many popcorn balls does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 10 individual popcorn balls.
How long does it take to prepare these treats?
The entire process takes under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for last-minute holiday preparations.
What ingredients do I need for Festive M&M's Popcorn Delights?
You will need an 8-ounce package of miniature marshmallows, 4 tablespoons of butter, a 3 1/3 ounce package of microwave kettle popcorn, and 1 1/2 cups of red and green M&M's.
Can I make these using a microwave?
Yes, the recipe includes a microwave method where you melt the marshmallows and butter in 30-second intervals.
Is there a stovetop method for this recipe?
Yes, you can melt the butter and marshmallows in a large pot over medium heat on the stovetop until smooth.
Why should I wet my hands before shaping the balls?
Wetting your hands with cold water prevents the sticky marshmallow and popcorn mixture from sticking to your skin while you shape the balls.
When should I add the M&M's to the popcorn mixture?
You should stir in the red and green M&M's after the popcorn has been coated in the marshmallow mixture and allowed to cool for 5 minutes.
How should I store the finished popcorn balls?
Store the individual popcorn balls in plastic bags at room temperature to keep them fresh.
Can these popcorn balls be given as gifts?
Absolutely! They make thoughtful and charming homemade gifts when wrapped in individual bags.
What type of popcorn is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for microwave kettle popcorn for its unique sweet and salty flavor profile.
What should I do with unpopped kernels?
It is important to remove all unpopped kernels after popping the popcorn to ensure the popcorn balls are safe and pleasant to eat.
How many calories are in one popcorn ball?
Each popcorn ball contains approximately 180 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 7 grams of fat per popcorn ball.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
Each popcorn ball contains 25 grams of carbohydrates.
Is there any protein in these treats?
Yes, each serving provides 1.5 grams of protein.
How long should the mixture cool before I start shaping it?
The mixture should cool for a total of about 10 minutes (5 minutes before adding M&M's and 5 minutes after) to make it easy to handle.
What size marshmallow should I use?
Miniature marshmallows are required for this recipe as they melt more quickly and evenly.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of butter.
Do I need to melt the butter before adding it to the marshmallows in the microwave?
No, you can combine the butter and marshmallows together in a bowl and microwave them at the same time.
What are the primary colors used for the M&M's?
Red and green M&M's are used to give the treats a festive holiday appearance.
Can I use different colored M&M's for other holidays?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for other occasions by swapping the red and green M&M's for different colors.
What is the sodium content of this recipe?
The specific sodium content is not provided in the nutritional facts, but it will depend on the brand of kettle popcorn and butter used.
How much M&M's are required?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of red and green M&M's.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include holiday treats, popcorn balls, m&m's, christmas snacks, easy recipes, gifts from the kitchen, festive desserts, and microwave snacks.
Is this recipe considered difficult?
No, it is tagged as an easy recipe and is designed for quick and simple preparation.
How do I ensure the marshmallow mixture is smooth?
Stir the mixture after each microwave interval or stir continuously if using the stovetop method until no lumps remain.
Can I use a different type of marshmallow?
The recipe specifies miniature marshmallows because they melt faster, but standard marshmallows can be used if cut into smaller pieces.
What temperature should I melt the butter on for the stovetop method?
You should use medium heat to melt the butter and marshmallows on the stovetop.