Homemade popcorn balls are one of those snacks that instantly feel nostalgic. All you need are a few simple ingredients: popcorn, corn syrup, margarine, marshmallows, powdered sugar, and a splash of water.
Everything melts together on the stove, then gets shaped into the familiar round treats.
This recipe makes about twenty popcorn balls so there will be plenty to share.
They’re chewy, sweet, and crunchy all at once, with that gooey marshmallow coating wrapped around crisp popcorn.
Wrapped individually, they’re easy to hand out at parties, keep in a jar for snacking, or pack up for special occasions.
While they’re especially popular around fall holidays, popcorn balls work any time you want a fun homemade treat. They don’t take long, use pantry staples, and store well if you want to make them ahead.
Whether you’re hosting, bringing something to share, or just craving a snack, popcorn balls are a quick way to add a little homemade fun to your kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to Make
These popcorn balls take about twenty minutes from start to finish.
Classic Snack
They’re a nostalgic treat that brings back memories for many.
Great for Sharing
This recipe makes twenty popcorn balls, so there’s plenty to hand out.
Simple Ingredients
Uses pantry staples like popcorn, marshmallows, and corn syrup.
Tips and Tricks
Shaping the Balls
Work quickly while the mixture is still warm so the popcorn sticks together easily.
Grease Hands
Use shortening or butter to keep the mixture from sticking to your hands.
Wrap Individually
Wrap in plastic wrap to keep them fresh and easy to serve later.
Ingredient Substitutions
Margarine
Butter can be used instead of margarine for a richer taste.
Marshmallows
Mini marshmallows melt more evenly if you prefer them.
Serving Suggestions
Serve at Halloween parties, holiday gatherings, or movie nights. They also make a fun treat for school events or bake sales.
How to Store and Reheat
Wrap each ball in plastic wrap and keep at room temperature for up to one week. No reheating is necessary.
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Easy Homemade Popcorn Balls
Equipment
Ingredients
- ¾ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup margarine
- 2 teaspoons cold water
- 2⅝ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup marshmallows
- 5 quarts plain popped popcorn
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add corn syrup, margarine, cold water, powdered sugar, and marshmallows.
- Stir until the mixture boils.
- Pour the hot mixture over the popcorn.
- Stir until all popcorn is evenly coated.
- Grease hands with shortening.
- Shape the coated popcorn into balls while still warm.
- Wrap each ball in plastic wrap.
- Store at room temperature.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Shaping the Balls
Work quickly while the mixture is still warm so the popcorn sticks together easily.Grease Hands
Use shortening or butter to keep the mixture from sticking to your hands.Wrap Individually
Wrap in plastic wrap to keep them fresh and easy to serve later.Ingredient Substitutions
Margarine
Butter can be used instead of margarine for a richer taste.Marshmallows
Mini marshmallows melt more evenly if you prefer them.How to Store and Reheat
Wrap each ball in plastic wrap and keep at room temperature for up to one week. No reheating is necessary.Nutrition
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