Ultimate Candy Crunch Popcorn Balls
These Ultimate Candy Crunch Popcorn Balls are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that's perfect for parties, movie nights, or sweet celebrations. With gooey marshmallows, crunchy popcorn, and a burst of colorful candy corn (or mini M&M's for a fun twist), these chewy, crispy, and sweet bites are a reminder of childhood joy. Gather some friends and family to help shape these delectable treats as time is of the essence! Once shaped, you can wrap them in bright colored plastic wrap for gifting or simply to add a pop of color to your party spread. Enjoy these sweet snacks fresh, or store them away for a few days, but be warned—they'll disappear quickly!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Marshmallows
50 (large)
Margarine or Butter
1/3 cup (softened)
Popcorn
20 cups (freshly popped)
Chocolate Teddy Grahams
2 cups (crushed)
Candy Corn
2 1/4 cups (minced (optional: use mini M&M's instead))
Instructions
1
Begin by popping your popcorn; you will need about 20 cups of fresh, puffed popcorn. You can use either salted or unsalted, depending on your taste preference.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the popped popcorn with the chocolate Teddy Grahams. Set aside.
3
In a large saucepan, combine the marshmallows with the margarine or butter over medium-low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture melts completely and becomes smooth. Once melted, remove from heat.
4
Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and Teddy Grahams. Gently toss using a spatula or wooden spoon to make sure every piece is well-coated.
5
Carefully mix in the candy corn until evenly distributed throughout the popcorn mixture.
6
With lightly greased hands, quickly shape the mixture into 20 evenly sized balls, about 3 inches in diameter. Press firmly to ensure they hold their shape.
7
Place the formed popcorn balls onto a sheet of greased wax paper and let them cool completely.
8
Once cooled, wrap each popcorn ball in colored plastic wrap to keep them fresh and festive.
9
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, although they're likely to be gobbled up before then!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ultimate Candy Crunch Popcorn Balls?
They are a sweet and crunchy treat made with popcorn, melted marshmallows, chocolate Teddy Grahams, and candy corn.
How many popcorn balls does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 20 evenly sized popcorn balls.
What type of popcorn is best for this recipe?
You should use fresh, puffed popcorn. You can use either salted or unsalted depending on your flavor preference.
How much popcorn do I need?
The recipe calls for 20 cups of popped popcorn.
What kind of marshmallows should I use?
You will need 50 large marshmallows.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use 1/3 cup of either margarine or softened butter.
How do I melt the marshmallow mixture?
Combine the marshmallows and butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until smooth.
What role do the chocolate Teddy Grahams play?
They add a chocolatey crunch and a whimsical element to the texture of the balls.
Can I substitute the candy corn?
Yes, you can use mini M&M's as a fun twist instead of candy corn.
How much candy corn is required?
The recipe uses 2 1/4 cups of candy corn.
Do I need to mince the candy corn?
The recipe suggests mincing the candy corn, though this is optional depending on the desired texture.
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?
Lightly grease your hands before shaping the popcorn balls to prevent sticking.
What size should each popcorn ball be?
Aim for about 3 inches in diameter for each ball.
How do I ensure the balls hold their shape?
Press the mixture firmly with your hands while shaping them into balls.
Where should I place the balls to cool?
Place the formed balls onto a sheet of greased wax paper.
How should I store these treats?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
How long will the popcorn balls stay fresh?
They can be stored for up to 3 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
Are these suitable for a party?
Yes, they are perfect for movie nights, parties, or sweet celebrations.
Can I gift these popcorn balls?
Absolutely! Wrapping them in colored plastic wrap makes them festive and perfect for gifting.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweet ingredients and fun shapes make them a favorite for children.
When should I add the candy corn?
Mix in the candy corn after the popcorn and Teddy Grahams have been coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Can I use a microwave to melt the marshmallows?
While the recipe suggests a saucepan for better control, you can use a microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.
Why is time 'of the essence' in this recipe?
The marshmallow mixture sets quickly as it cools, so you must shape the balls while the mixture is still pliable.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 5 main ingredients in this recipe.
Can I use crushed Teddy Grahams?
Yes, the recipe specifically recommends using 2 cups of crushed chocolate Teddy Grahams.
How do I keep the popcorn balls festive?
Wrapping each individual ball in brightly colored plastic wrap adds a pop of color to any display.
Is there a specific heat setting for the marshmallow melting?
Medium-low heat is recommended to prevent the marshmallows from burning.
Do I need to grease the wax paper?
Yes, greasing the wax paper ensures the balls don't stick while they cool.
Can I use other types of cereal?
While this recipe uses Teddy Grahams, you could experiment with other small crunchy cereals or crackers.
What should I do if the mixture gets too hard to shape?
You can briefly and gently warm the mixture to soften the marshmallow, but it is best to work quickly while it is still warm.