Ingredients
Scale
- 10 cups popped popcorn (plain or lightly salted, kernels removed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 5 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Orange and green liquid or gel food coloring
- 1/2 cup candy corn
- 1/4 cup Halloween-themed sprinkles
- Non-stick cooking spray (for your hands)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Popcorn
Place your popped popcorn into a very large mixing bowl. Ensure you sift through the corn to remove any unpopped kernels, as biting into one can be an unpleasant surprise. If you want to include candy corn or large sprinkles, toss them in with the popcorn now so they are evenly distributed before the sticky mixture is added. - Step 2: Melt the Marshmallow Mixture
In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter slowly. Once the butter is completely melted, add the mini marshmallows. Stir constantly with a silicone spatula until the marshmallows are smooth and completely melted. Remove the pan from the heat immediately to prevent the sugar from burning or becoming too hard. - Step 3: Add Color and Flavor
Stir the vanilla extract and salt into the melted marshmallow mixture. If you want a single color, add your food coloring now and stir until the color is uniform. If you want multiple colors, divide the marshmallow mixture into separate bowls before adding the coloring. Work quickly, as the mixture will begin to set as it cools. - Step 4: Combine and Coat
Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the popcorn in the large bowl. Use a greased spatula to gently fold the popcorn until every piece is thoroughly coated in the sticky marshmallow glue. Add your sprinkles at this stage so they stick to the outside of the popcorn pieces. - Step 5: Shape the Balls
Spray your hands generously with non-stick cooking spray or rub them with a little butter. Scoop up about 1 cup of the popcorn mixture and gently press it between your hands to form a ball about the size of a baseball. Do not pack them too tightly, or they will be difficult to bite into. Place the finished balls on a sheet of parchment paper to cool and set completely.
- Cook Time: 25 minutes