Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Festive Popcorn Balls with M&Ms and Sprinkles Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 87 reviews

Delightfully sweet and colorful popcorn balls made with melted marshmallows, butter, festive sprinkles, and red and green M&M candies. Perfect for holiday celebrations or as a fun treat, these popcorn balls are easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 15 servings

Ingredients

Popcorn

  • ½ cup unpopped popcorn kernels

Marshmallow Coating

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 10-ounce bag miniature marshmallows

Add-ins

  • 1 cup red and green M&M candies
  • ⅓ cup festive sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Pop the Popcorn: Pop your popcorn kernels using your preferred method, whether on the stovetop, in an air popper, or microwave. Once popped, remove any unpopped kernels and set the fluffy popcorn aside.
  2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Once fully melted, add the miniature marshmallows and stir frequently until they melt completely into a smooth, gooey mixture.
  3. Combine Corn and Marshmallow Mixture: Remove the pot from heat and pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popped popcorn. Gently stir until all the popcorn is thoroughly coated with the marshmallow glaze.
  4. Add Candy and Sprinkles: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the red and green M&M candies and festive sprinkles carefully with a rubber spatula, ensuring even distribution without breaking the popcorn balls.
  5. Form Popcorn Balls: Spray your hands with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Scoop about one cup of the popcorn mixture and gently press it together with your hands to form balls. Reapply cooking spray as needed to handle the sticky mixture comfortably.
  6. Set and Serve: Place the formed popcorn balls on a parchment-lined tray and allow them to cool at room temperature until fully set and firm, about 20-30 minutes. Once set, they are ready to enjoy or package for gifting.

Notes

  • Ensure all unpopped kernels are removed to avoid biting into hard pieces.
  • Use gloves or spray your hands liberally with cooking spray to prevent sticky hands while forming balls.
  • Store popcorn balls in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
  • Mix-ins such as different candies or nuts can be substituted based on preference.
  • Make sure the marshmallow mixture is not too hot when mixing in candies to prevent melting them.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American