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Homemade Popcorn Balls

A sweet treat made by combining toasted popcorn with melted marshmallows and butter, then shaping the mixture into balls. The final result is a sticky, chewy snack with crispy popcorn clusters and a colorful, imperfect appearance. The texture balances gooeyness atop crunchy popcorn, creating a nostalgic comfort food.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 10 cups popped popcorn preferably plain and lightly salted
  • 1 cup marshmallows mini or regular size, chopped if large
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet or parchment-lined surface

Method
 

  1. Measure out 10 cups of popcorn and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, watching for a gentle bubbling and a fragrant aroma.
  3. Add the marshmallows and granulated sugar to the melted butter. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour the hot marshmallow mixture over the popcorn in the mixing bowl.
  5. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula until the popcorn is evenly coated and sticky.
  6. While still warm, shape the mixture into 8 to 10 balls using your hands, pressing firmly to compact pastes. Place the balls onto a parchment-lined sheet to cool and set.

Notes

For easier shaping, slightly dampen hands or oil them lightly before forming the balls. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.