Easy Popcorn Ball Recipe
User Reviews
5
Easy Popcorn Ball Recipe
Description
This recipe melts butter in a saucepan, then incorporates marshmallows, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Vanilla can be added for extra aroma and sweetness, though it is optional. The melted marshmallow mixture is folded into popped popcorn, coating it evenly. Once the mixture cools slightly and becomes pliable, it is shaped into balls using lightly sprayed hands to reduce sticking. The popcorn balls are then set on a surface like waxed paper to cool completely and firm up.
The popcorn balls provide a nostalgic and portable treat with a balance of crunchy popcorn and soft, sticky marshmallow binding. They can be formed into various sizes to suit serving needs or personal preferences. This recipe allows customization by pressing candies into the outside before cooling for added texture and flavor.
Butter used is typically salted; if unsalted is used, a small pinch of salt can be added to balance flavor. Both mini and regular marshmallows work for melting. The approximate volume of popcorn corresponds to about one microwave popcorn bag’s worth. These treats work well for parties or as a homemade sweet snack.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 10 ounce marshmallow bag
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
- 8-9 cups Popcorn unflavored, popped
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt butter.
- Add marshmallows, and stir constantly until marshmallows have melted.
- Remove from heat, and stir in vanilla, if using.
- Add popcorn, and fold into marshmallow mixture.
- When mixture is cool enough to handle, lightly spray your hands with nonstick cooking spray.
- Scoop about 1 cup of the popcorn mixture and smoosh it into a ball.
- Place on a sheet of waxed paper, parchment paper, or silicone baking mat to cool.
Notes
- Use salted butter or add a pinch of salt if using unsalted butter for better flavor.
- Either mini or regular marshmallows can be used to melt for the binding mixture.
- Vanilla extract is optional but adds some extra flavor; other extracts could be used as alternatives.
- About 8–9 cups of unflavored popped popcorn is ideal, roughly one standard microwave bag.
- Pressing candy pieces into the surface before cooling creates extra texture and decorative appeal.
- Store popcorn balls in an airtight container once fully cooled to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 9popcorn balls
Amount Per Serving
Calories 184 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1popcorn ball | |
| Calories | 184kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 33g | 11% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 14mg | 5% |
| Sodium | 71mg | 3% |
| Potassium | 36mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 18g | 36% |
| Vitamin A | 177IU | 4% |
| Calcium | 3mg | 0% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.