Easy Popcorn Ball Recipe

User Reviews

5

63 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Cook Time

    5 mins

  • Total Time

    15 mins

  • Servings

    9 popcorn balls

  • Calories

    184 kcal

  • Course

    Dessert

  • Cuisine

    American

Easy Popcorn Ball Recipe

Easy Popcorn Balls combine popped unflavored popcorn with a melted marshmallow and butter mixture, optionally flavored with vanilla extract. The sticky marshmallow binds the popcorn into shape when cooled, allowing the mixture to be molded into compact balls. Lightly spraying hands with nonstick spray prevents sticking during shaping. The resulting treat is chewy and sweet with a classic marshmallow flavor and the crispness of popcorn.

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.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 10 ounce marshmallow bag
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • 8-9 cups Popcorn unflavored, popped

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, melt butter.
  2. Add marshmallows, and stir constantly until marshmallows have melted.
  3. Remove from heat, and stir in vanilla, if using.
  4. Add popcorn, and fold into marshmallow mixture.
  5. When mixture is cool enough to handle, lightly spray your hands with nonstick cooking spray.
  6. Scoop about 1 cup of the popcorn mixture and smoosh it into a ball.
  7. 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 Details
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%)

Nutrition 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.

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Overall Rating

5

63 reviews
Excellent

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