These Christmas Popcorn Balls are a fun and festive snack that’s perfect for the holiday season. They’re easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients, and they’re always a hit with kids and adults alike. I love how they combine the classic flavors of popcorn and marshmallows with the festive crunch of red and green M&Ms and sprinkles.

Why You’ll Love These Christmas Popcorn Balls

Festive and Fun: These popcorn balls are bursting with holiday cheer, thanks to the red and green M&Ms and festive sprinkles.
Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, with just a few simple ingredients and no baking required.
Perfect for Sharing: These popcorn balls are great for parties, gifts, or just a casual get-together with friends and family.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love helping to make these fun and festive treats.

Ingredients for Christmas Popcorn Balls

Here’s what I use to make these delicious popcorn balls:

Popcorn Kernels: I use regular popcorn kernels, but you can also use microwave popcorn if you prefer.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the marshmallow mixture.
Miniature Marshmallows: These melt easily and create a gooey binder for the popcorn.
Red and Green M&Ms: Add a festive touch and a bit of chocolatey crunch.
Festive Sprinkles: These add a pop of color and fun.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

Different Candies: Use different types of candies, like chocolate chips, peanut butter cups, or pretzels.
Dried Fruit: Add some chopped dried fruit, like cranberries or apricots, to the mixture.
Nuts: Mix in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate over the popcorn balls for an extra decadent treat.

How to Make Christmas Popcorn Balls

Step 1: Pop the Popcorn

I start by popping the popcorn kernels using my preferred method. I usually use an air popper, but you can also use a stovetop method or microwave popcorn. I remove any unpopped kernels and set the popped popcorn aside.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large pot, I melt the butter over medium-low heat. Then, I add the marshmallows and stir until they’re melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Popcorn and Marshmallow Mixture

I remove the pot from the heat and pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popped popcorn. I gently stir everything together until the popcorn is well coated.

Step 4: Add the Candies and Sprinkles

Once the mixture has cooled slightly, I use a rubber spatula to fold in the M&Ms and sprinkles.

Step 5: Shape the Popcorn Balls

I spray my hands with nonstick cooking spray and then scoop about a cup of the popcorn mixture into my hands. I gently press the mixture together to form a ball. I repeat this process until all of the popcorn mixture is used up.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

I let the popcorn balls sit at room temperature until they’re completely cooled and set. Then, I enjoy them!

Tips and Tricks

Cooling Time: Allowing the marshmallow mixture to cool slightly before adding the candies and sprinkles will help prevent them from melting.
Even Coating: Make sure all of the popcorn is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Storage: Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

How to Serve

These Christmas Popcorn Balls are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas for serving them:

Holiday Parties: Serve them on a festive platter at your next holiday party.
Gifts: Package them up in cute bags or tins and give them as gifts to friends and family.
Movie Night: Enjoy them as a fun and festive snack during a holiday movie marathon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can make these popcorn balls a few days ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Freezing: You can freeze these popcorn balls for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of candy?
Yes, you can use any type of candy you like, such as chocolate chips, peanut butter cups, or pretzels.

2. Can I add nuts to the popcorn balls?
Yes, you can add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the mixture.

3. How can I prevent the M&Ms from melting?
You can add the M&Ms after shaping the popcorn balls, or you can use a different type of candy that doesn’t melt as easily.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Christmas Popcorn Balls. I hope you enjoy them!