Marshmallow Popcorn
Ever tried Marshmallow Popcorn? It’s an incredible mix of buttery, sweet, marshmallowy sticky goodness that ABSOLUTELY hits the spot! It’s like Rice Krispies treats but with a popcorn twist. You only need three simple ingredients to make marshmallow popcorn, and in no time (seriously, less than 10 minutes), you’ll have a simple yet yummy combo that’s great for movie night or any day you’re craving something sweet, salty, and crunchy.
For those of you who can’t resist a sweet and salty combo, this marshmallow popcorn recipe is gonna be your next obsession. I mean, how can anyone not fall for buttery popcorn all tangled up in sweet, ooey gooey marshmallows? It’s the kind of snack that disappears bite after bite until, oops, where did it all go? My kids and I will fight over who gets the last piece…
Marshmallow Popcorn Overview
Cuisine Inspiration: American
Number of Ingredients: 4
Total Cook Time: 10 minutes
Primary Cooking Method: Air popping, stovetop
Dietary Info: Gluten-Free
Key Flavor: Sweet and salty
Skill Level: Beginner!
Ingredients to make Marshmallow Popcorn
- Popcorn: Freshly popped is the way to go for that perfect crunch. I’m a big fan of using an air popper for its convenience and the way it pops corn without any oil, but if you don’t have one, you can use microwave popcorn. Or just pop your kernels the old-fashioned way on the stovetop!
- Mini Marshmallows: They bring all that gooey sweetness to your popcorn. Any brand will do the trick, so just grab a bag from your local store.
- Unsalted Butter: This adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly. Plus, using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of your snack.
- Salt: To enhance the flavors and add that irresistible sweet-salty contrast.
How to make Marshmallow Popcorn
- Add the butter, marshmallows, and salt to a medium saucepan.
- Melt over low heat, stirring until completely melted and combined.
- Pop the popcorn using an air popper and place it in a large bowl, removing any kernels that didn’t pop.
- Immediately pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn.
- Stir quickly with a long wooden spoon to coat the popcorn before the mixture sets.
Popular substitutions & additions
- Caramel or Chocolate Drizzle: After you’ve mixed the marshmallow and popcorn, drizzle warm caramel or melted chocolate over the top, and let it set for a few minutes (if you can wait that long!) for an extra layer of decadence.
- Mix-Ins: After coating the popcorn with the marshmallow mixture, throw in some M&Ms, broken pretzel pieces, crushed Oreos, or chocolate chips. As I said before, you can go wild with this marshmallow popcorn recipe!
- Spice It Up: For a seasonal twist, toss the marshmallow-coated popcorn with your favorite spices. Think cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for a warm, cozy vibe.
- Colorful Popcorn Fun: Planning a themed party or just want to make snack time more fun? Add a few drops of food coloring to the melted marshmallow mixture before pouring it over the popcorn! Green for St. Patrick’s Day, pink for Valentine’s Day, or your favorite team’s colors for game day.
Tips for making the best Easy marshmallow popcorn
- Go Chunky Style: Personally, I’m all in for that ultra-gooey, stretchy marshmallow goodness that evenly coats every piece of popcorn. But hey, if you want some cloudy surprises in your popcorn, you can leave a few marshmallow chunks intentionally unmelted.
- Remove the Unpopped Kernels: After popping, give the bowl a gentle shake to let those sneaky, unpopped kernels fall to the bottom. Then, transfer the good stuff to another bowl, leaving those kernels behind. Your teeth will thank you!
- If Using the Microwave, Go For Unsalted: If you’re reaching for microwave popcorn for convenience (totally get it!), try to stick with the unsalted varieties. This gives you more control over the saltiness of your snack, especially since you’ll be adding more salt to the mix.
- Stir It Fast: Remember, the marshmallow mixture starts setting pretty quickly once it’s off the heat. So, have your popcorn ready and your stirring arm warmed up. The faster you can mix, the better the coverage you’ll get.
How to store Marshmallow Popcorn
To keep your sticky popcorn at its best, stash it in an airtight container. Tuck it away in a cool, dry place, like your pantry or kitchen cabinet, to keep it crispy and delicious.
How long will Marshmallow Popcorn last?
If stored properly, your marshmallow popcorn will stay fresh and tasty for a few days. The sooner you eat them, the fresher and the better!
What to serve with Marshmallow Popcorn
- Popcorn Balls: Get your hands a little sticky and roll the popcorn into awesome popcorn balls! They’re perfect for grabbing and going.
- Popcorn Bars: Sometimes, you just need more marshmallow goodness in your life. Press the popcorn into a pan, let it set, and voila – you’ve got marshmallow popcorn bars that are a snap to share… If you’re feeling generous.
- Ice Cream: Ever sprinkled this marshmallow popcorn on ice cream? If not, you’re missing out. It turns any scoop into a crunchy, gooey treat!
- Dipped in Chocolate: Dipping these marshmallow popcorn bits in chocolate is something you do when you have die-hard chocolate lovers in your home. Definitely a crowd-pleaser!
- Salt and Vinegar Popcorn: The contrast of flavors makes for a fun movie night popcorn tray.
Frequently asked questions
Can I Use Pre-Popped Popcorn?
Yes, but make sure to choose a plain or lightly salted variety to keep the flavors balanced. Pre-popped popcorn can vary in freshness though, so for the best taste and texture, check the expiration date!
What’s the Best Way to Melt the Marshmallows Without Burning Them?
The key to perfectly melted marshmallows is low and slow heat. Melt them together with the butter over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent any hot spots that could cause the marshmallows to burn.
How Do I Keep the Popcorn From Getting Soggy?
To keep your marshmallow popcorn crispy, make sure you store it in an airtight container after it’s cooled down completely. Moisture is the enemy of crispy popcorn, so avoid storing it in humid environments.
If you ask me, this Marshmallow Popcorn totally knocks Mallow Magic popcorn out of the park – I’ve been caught with an empty bowl more times than I can count. But hey, no worries if you find yourself polishing off the whole thing before anyone else gets a taste. Whipping up another batch is easy, and your secret’s safe with me.
More easy 3 ingredient recipes:
- Baked Cheese Crisps
- Chocolate Angel Food Cake
- 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies
- 3 Ingredient Chocolate Fudge
- 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
- Air Fryer Potato Chips
I want to hear from you! If you try this easy Marshmallow Popcorn recipe or any other of my easy recipes on Dinner in 5, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below! I read all the comments and respond!
Marshmallow Popcorn
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 10 cups freshly popped popcorn
Instructions
- Pop the popcorn using an air popper and place it in a large bowl, removing any kernels that didn’t pop.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and salt, stirring until completely melted and combined, about 10 minutes.
- Immediately pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn. Stir quickly with a long wooden spoon to coat the popcorn before the mixture sets.
Notes
- Go Chunky Style: Personally, I’m all in for that ultra-gooey, stretchy marshmallow goodness that evenly coats every piece of popcorn. But hey, if you want some cloudy surprises in your popcorn, you can leave a few marshmallow chunks intentionally unmelted.
- Remove the Unpopped Kernels: After popping, give the bowl a gentle shake to let those sneaky, unpopped kernels fall to the bottom. Then, transfer the good stuff to another bowl, leaving those kernels behind. Your teeth will thank you!
- If Using the Microwave, Go For Unsalted: If you’re reaching for microwave popcorn for convenience (totally get it!), try to stick with the unsalted varieties. This gives you more control over the saltiness of your snack, especially since you’ll be adding more salt to the mix.
- Stir It Fast: Remember, the marshmallow mixture starts setting pretty quickly once it’s off the heat. So, have your popcorn ready and your stirring arm warmed up. The faster you can mix, the better the coverage you’ll get.
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.
