Festive Popcorn Marshmallow Treats
Indulge in a delightful twist on a classic dessert with these Festive Popcorn Marshmallow Treats! Combining the light and airy crunch of popcorn with the gooey sweetness of marshmallows, these treats are perfect for any celebration or snack time. Dressed up with colorful wraps to match any occasion, each bite brings nostalgic joy alongside a burst of flavor. Perfect for birthday parties, holidays, or just a fun afternoon treat, these popcorn balls are not only easy to make but also bring a smile to everyone’s face. Customize them with your choice of food coloring to match your theme or preference!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Popcorn
3 quarts (Popped)
Butter or Margarine
1/4 cup (Melted)
Marshmallows
1 (20 ounce) bag (Unpacked)
Food Coloring
Optional (As desired)
Instructions
1
Start by popping 3 quarts of popcorn and place it in a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
2
In a separate large microwave-safe bowl, add 1/4 cup of butter. Heat it in the microwave on high for about 30-45 seconds or until melted.
3
Once the butter is melted, add a 20-ounce bag of marshmallows to the bowl. Microwave on high for about 1 to 1-1/2 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the marshmallows expand and get puffy.
4
Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be hot) and stir the marshmallows until they are completely melted and smooth. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring and mix well to achieve your desired color.
5
Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popped popcorn. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold and mix until all the popcorn is evenly coated with the marshmallow.
6
To form the popcorn balls, butter your hands to prevent sticking. Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into balls, about the size of a golf ball.
7
Wrap each ball in colorful plastic wrap, tying them off to secure. Store them at room temperature until you are ready to serve or gift!
8
Enjoy these delicious treats at your next gathering or special occasion!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Festive Popcorn Marshmallow Treats?
They are a delightful snack combining the light crunch of popcorn with the gooey sweetness of marshmallows, often customized with food coloring for special occasions.
How much popcorn do I need for this recipe?
You will need 3 quarts of popped popcorn.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use either 1/4 cup of butter or margarine to melt with the marshmallows.
What size bag of marshmallows is required?
The recipe calls for one 20-ounce bag of marshmallows.
How do I melt the butter?
Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 30 to 45 seconds until melted.
How long should I microwave the marshmallows?
Microwave the marshmallows on high for about 1 to 1-1/2 minutes until they are puffy and expanded.
How do I add color to the popcorn balls?
Add a few drops of food coloring to the melted marshmallow and butter mixture before pouring it over the popcorn.
What is the best way to mix the marshmallow and popcorn?
Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the melted marshmallow mixture into the popped popcorn until evenly coated.
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?
Butter your hands thoroughly before shaping the popcorn mixture into balls.
What size should the popcorn balls be?
The recipe suggests shaping them into balls roughly the size of a golf ball.
How should these treats be stored?
Wrap each ball in colorful plastic wrap and store them at room temperature.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is a no-bake recipe that uses a microwave to melt the ingredients.
Are these treats suitable for parties?
Absolutely, they are perfect for birthday parties, holidays, or any festive gathering.
Can I customize the colors for different holidays?
Yes, you can use any food coloring to match the theme of your specific event or holiday.
Should the popcorn be popped before starting the recipe?
Yes, the popcorn should be popped and ready in a large mixing bowl before you melt the marshmallows.
Is the marshmallow mixture hot after microwaving?
Yes, the bowl and the mixture will be very hot, so handle them carefully when removing from the microwave.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 4 main ingredients: popcorn, butter, marshmallows, and optional food coloring.
Can I use pre-popped bagged popcorn?
Yes, as long as you measure out 3 quarts of popped corn, pre-popped popcorn works fine.
Are these treats kid-friendly?
Yes, they are very popular with children and easy for them to enjoy as a snack.
How do I secure the plastic wrap?
Wrap the plastic around the ball and tie it off at the top to secure it.
What texture do these treats have?
They have a light, airy crunch from the popcorn paired with a gooey, soft texture from the marshmallows.
Can I leave the food coloring out?
Yes, food coloring is optional and the treats will still taste delicious without it.
What type of bowl should I use for melting?
Always use a large microwave-safe bowl to prevent the marshmallows from overflowing as they expand.
Do these make good gifts?
Yes, when wrapped in colorful plastic, they make excellent party favors or edible gifts.
Can I use a stove if I don't have a microwave?
Yes, you can melt the butter and marshmallows in a large pot over low heat on the stove, stirring constantly.
How long does it take for the marshmallows to melt?
In the microwave, it takes between 60 and 90 seconds to become puffy enough to stir smooth.
How many popcorn balls does this make?
Depending on the exact size you roll them, it typically makes a large batch of golf-ball-sized treats.
Do I need to refrigerate them?
No, they are best stored and served at room temperature.
Is it difficult to clean the bowl?
Soaking the bowl in warm, soapy water immediately after use will make it easier to clean the sticky marshmallow residue.
Are these gluten-free?
Most popcorn, butter, and marshmallows are gluten-free, but you should check the labels on your specific brands to be certain.