Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe
Indulging in a delightful treat that brings both joy and creativity to the kitchen, these Marshmallow Popcorn Balls are not only a fun recipe for children to make but are also incredibly delicious to eat. Perfectly suited for festive occasions like Halloween and Christmas, this treat can be customized by varying the flavor and color of the Jell-O, making it a versatile dessert that appeals to kids of all ages. In less than thirty minutes, you can whip up a batch that is ideal for lunchbox snacks, camping trips, or as a quick dessert. Gather your little chefs and enjoy this playful cooking experience!
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Name | Marshmallow Popcorn Balls |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | Makes approximately 12-15 balls (varies based on size) |
| Keywords | Lunch/Snacks, Low Protein, Kid Friendly, Camping, < 30 Mins, Easy |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270.2 |
| Total Fat | 12.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 30.5 mg |
| Sodium | 136.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 39.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g |
| Sugars | 20.6 g |
| Protein | 3.2 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Miniature marshmallows | 3 cups |
| Raspberry Jell-O gelatin (or any flavor) | 1 ½ ounces |
| Popcorn (popped) | 10-12 cups |
Instructions
-
Melt the Butter
Begin by melting the butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat, ensuring that it is completely liquefied but not browned, as this will give the popcorn balls the perfect buttery flavor. -
-
Add Marshmallows
Once the butter has melted, add in the miniature marshmallows. Stir the mixture continuously until all of the marshmallows have melted into a smooth, creamy consistency, creating a luscious marshmallow mixture that will coat the popcorn. -
Incorporate Jell-O
After the marshmallows have fully melted, blend in the dry Jell-O gelatin, stirring thoroughly to ensure that the flavor and color are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step is where the magic happens, transforming the ordinary into something truly festive. -
Mix with Popcorn
In a large bowl, pour the melted marshmallow and Jell-O mixture over the popped popcorn. Use a long-handled wooden spoon to mix well, ensuring that each piece of popcorn is generously coated with the colorful, gooey mixture. The longer handle will help you mix without burning your hands. -
Shape into Balls
With buttered hands, take portions of the popcorn mixture and shape it into balls. The size of the balls can vary according to preference; however, a medium size is recommended for easy handling and eating. Ensure your hands are adequately buttered to prevent the mixture from sticking excessively. -
Let Dry
Once shaped, place the popcorn balls on a sheet of waxed paper to cool and set. This process allows them to firm up a bit, making them easier to handle. -
Wrap for Storage
For easy storage and to keep them fresh, wrap each popcorn ball individually in plastic wrap. This step is perfect for keeping them fresh for your next adventure, whether that’s a camping trip, picnic, or festive gathering. -
Fun for Kids
Allow the kids to get involved in the fun! They can help with measuring the ingredients, mixing the popcorn, and shaping the balls once the mixture is cool enough to handle. Just make sure to have Handy Wipes on hand for those sticky fingers! -
Serve and Enjoy
These Marshmallow Popcorn Balls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. The number of popcorn balls you create will depend on how large you make each one; for larger gatherings, consider making an extra batch instead of doubling the original recipe.
Tips for Success
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of Jell-O for various occasions. For instance, use green for Halloween, red for Christmas, or blue for summer gatherings.
- Add-ins: Consider mixing in some add-ins like mini chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to add texture and flavor to your popcorn balls.
- Perfectly Popped Popcorn: Ensure your popcorn is fresh and fully popped. Air-popped popcorn is an excellent choice for this recipe as it has a neutral flavor that allows the sweetness of the marshmallow and Jell-O to shine through.
These delightful Marshmallow Popcorn Balls not only create a fantastic culinary activity with your children but also deliver a fun, festive treat that everyone will enjoy, making them a perfect addition to any celebration or snack time. Enjoy the smiles that come with creating and sharing this colorful dessert!
