Popcorn balls with marshmallows are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a festive celebration, a cozy movie night, or a fun baking session with the kids. These delightful, chewy snacks combine the lightness of popcorn with the sweetness of marshmallows, creating a fun, hands-on treat that everyone will love. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe makes it easy to whip up a batch of these nostalgic treats that are sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Popcorn balls with marshmallows are a classic treat that brings back fond memories for many. Their delightful combination of textures and flavors makes them a hit among both kids and adults. They are incredibly easy to make and can be customized with various add-ins, making them versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a fun party snack or a simple dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is a must-have. Plus, they make for great gifts or party favors when wrapped up in festive packaging!

What We’re Using

To create these delicious popcorn balls with marshmallows, you’ll need the following ingredients:

20 cups popped popcorn: The base of our treat, providing that light and fluffy texture.
3/4 cup light corn syrup: This helps bind everything together and adds sweetness.
1/4 cup butter: Adds richness and flavor, along with 2 tablespoons softened butter for shaping.
2 tsp cold water: A small addition that helps with the syrup mixture.
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar: For that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
1 cup mini marshmallows or 14 large marshmallows: These are the star ingredient that gives our popcorn balls their chewy texture.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you get started, ensure you have the following kitchen gear on hand:

Large mixing bowl: For mixing the popcorn and marshmallow mixture.
Medium saucepan: For melting the butter and corn syrup together.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the mixture.
Wax paper or parchment paper: To help shape your popcorn balls without sticking.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Cooking Popcorn Balls with Marshmallows: The Process

Making popcorn balls with marshmallows is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps for success!

Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn

Start by popping your popcorn. You can use an air popper, stovetop method, or microwave. Once popped, transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl, ensuring it is free from any unpopped kernels.

Step 2: Make the Syrup Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the light corn syrup, butter, and cold water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes without stirring. This will help thicken the syrup.

Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar

Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the syrup mixture over the popped popcorn in the large bowl. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently fold the syrup into the popcorn until every kernel is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add the Marshmallows

Once the popcorn is well-coated, add in the mini marshmallows (or chopped large marshmallows) and fold them into the popcorn mixture. Be gentle, as you want to keep the marshmallows intact for that lovely chewy texture.

Step 6: Shape the Popcorn Balls

Now it’s time to shape the popcorn balls! Lightly grease your hands with the softened butter to prevent sticking. Grab a handful of the popcorn mixture and form it into a ball about the size of a golf ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is shaped into balls.

Step 7: Let Them Cool

Place the shaped popcorn balls on a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper to cool completely. This will help them firm up and hold their shape.

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some adaptations you can make:

Dairy-free: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil.
Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of corn syrup and ensure your marshmallows are vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check your popcorn and any add-ins for gluten.

Author’s Commentary

These popcorn balls with marshmallows are a delightful treat that brings out the kid in everyone. I love making them for parties or as a fun family activity, especially around holidays. The best part is how versatile they are; you can throw in different mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even sprinkles to make them your own. They’re not only delicious but also a great way to spend time with loved ones in the kitchen. Plus, they make your home smell amazing while you’re making them!

Prep Ahead & Store

If you want to make these popcorn balls ahead of time, you can easily prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for several days, but I recommend enjoying them within a week for optimal taste and texture. If they start to get too hard, a quick blast in the microwave for a few seconds can help soften them up!

Quick Q&A

Can I use flavored popcorn for this recipe?

Absolutely! Flavored popcorn, such as caramel or cheese, can add a fun twist to your popcorn balls. Just be mindful of the flavors you choose and how they might blend with the marshmallows.

How do I make these popcorn balls stick together better?

If your popcorn balls aren’t sticking together well, you can try adding a bit more syrup or melted butter to the mixture. Make sure you are mixing everything thoroughly, and that the popcorn is still warm when you shape the balls.

Can I add other ingredients to the popcorn balls?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit to customize your popcorn balls to your taste. Just keep in mind that too many add-ins can make them harder to shape.

What’s the best way to store leftover popcorn balls?

Store any leftover popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. For longer storage, you might consider freezing them, but note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

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Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have everything you need to make these delightful popcorn balls with marshmallows, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started! These treats are not only easy and fun to make, but they also create lasting memories. So, roll up your sleeves, invite the family into the kitchen, and enjoy a sweet treat that’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!

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