Crunchy, sweet, and oh-so-festive, these Candy Cane Popcorn Balls are a delightful treat to make for holiday gatherings, movie nights, or a cozy evening at home. With the perfect blend of popcorn, marshmallows, and candy cane pieces, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends of all ages. Plus, the red and white swirl of the candy canes gives these popcorn balls a fun and whimsical touch that is perfect for the holiday season. Let’s get popping and rolling with this scrumptious recipe!
**Candy Cane Popcorn Balls**
**Ingredients:**
– 12 cups of popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
– 3 tablespoons of butter
– 4 cups of mini marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 cup of crushed candy cane pieces (about 10 candy canes)
– Cooking spray
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn kernels using an air popper or stovetop according to package instructions. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels.
2. **Melt the Butter:** In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
3. **Add Marshmallows:** Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows to the pot. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. **Add Vanilla Extract:** Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
5. **Combine Popcorn and Marshmallow Mixture:** In a large mixing bowl, pour the marshmallow mixture over the popped popcorn. Gently fold the popcorn and marshmallow mixture together until the popcorn is evenly coated.
6. **Add Candy Cane Pieces:** Sprinkle the crushed candy cane pieces over the popcorn mixture. Again, gently fold the mixture to distribute the candy cane pieces throughout.
7. **Form Popcorn Balls:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray. Using your hands, shape the popcorn mixture into balls, about the size of a golf ball, pressing firmly to ensure they hold together.
8. **Cool and Set:** Place the popcorn balls on the prepared baking sheet and allow them to cool at room temperature until they are set, about 30 minutes.
9. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the popcorn balls have set, they are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at your next holiday gathering or wrap them up in cellophane for a charming homemade gift.
These Candy Cane Popcorn Balls are not only delicious but also a fun and festive treat that everyone will love. Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even sprinkles for extra pizzazz. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of holiday magic to your dessert spread or simply craving a cozy treat, these popcorn balls are sure to bring joy to any occasion. Happy snacking!
