Easter is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen, and these colorful Easter Popcorn Balls are a delightful treat that captures the festive spirit of the season. Combining the satisfying crunch of popcorn with the sweet chewiness of marshmallow, these vibrant treats are as fun to make as they are to eat.
What makes these Easter Popcorn Balls special is their pastel colors and festive mix-ins that celebrate spring. Whether you’re hosting an Easter gathering, preparing treats for an egg hunt, or simply looking for a fun activity to do with the kids during the holiday weekend, these popcorn balls are sure to bring smiles all around.
Why You’ll Love This
- Kid-friendly recipe that doubles as a fun family activity
- Customizable with your favorite Easter candies and colors
- No baking required – just mix, form, and enjoy
- Can be made 1-2 days ahead for stress-free holiday prep
- Perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors
Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 6 Peeps marshmallows (any color/flavor), cut into small pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 bag (10 ounces) mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Easter-themed sprinkles
- Edible glitter
- Small Easter candies
Instructions
- Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl. Carefully remove any unpopped kernels to prevent unwanted surprises when eating.
- Cut the Peeps marshmallows into smaller pieces. This will help them melt more evenly and incorporate their colorful sweetness throughout the mixture.
- In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and Peeps pieces, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. You’ll notice the mixture taking on the color of the Peeps.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a deeper flavor dimension to the sweet mixture.
- Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn. Using a spatula or lightly greased hands, gently toss and coat the popcorn evenly. Be careful not to crush the popcorn as you mix.
- Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Scoop out portions of the coated popcorn and press them firmly into balls, about 3–4 inches in diameter.
- If desired, roll the still-sticky popcorn balls in sprinkles, edible glitter, or gently press small candies onto their surface for extra Easter flair.
- Place the shaped popcorn balls on a sheet of parchment paper or a greased baking sheet. Allow them to cool and set for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a flavor twist, add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract or coconut extract instead of vanilla
- Make larger “nests” by forming a depression in the center and filling with small egg-shaped candies
- For less sticky handling, lightly coat your hands with cooking spray before forming the balls
- Use white chocolate drizzle over the finished balls for an extra festive touch
- Try adding crushed graham crackers or cookie pieces for additional texture
- Keep the marshmallow mixture warm if it starts to harden before you’ve formed all the balls
Serving Suggestions
Arrange these colorful Easter Popcorn Balls on a decorative platter as a centerpiece for your Easter dessert table. They look especially festive when placed in pastel-colored cupcake liners or wrapped individually in clear cellophane tied with ribbon for gifting.
For a complete Easter treat spread, serve alongside chocolate bunnies, carrot-shaped cookies, and fresh fruit skewers. A glass of cold milk or spring-inspired lemonade makes the perfect accompaniment.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
- For best results, make these on a day with low humidity
- If popcorn balls become too hard, microwave for 10 seconds to soften
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly before forming balls to avoid burns
FAQs
Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe?
Yes, you can use plain microwave popcorn, but avoid heavily buttered or flavored varieties as they may clash with the sweet coating.
How do I prevent my popcorn balls from falling apart?
Make sure your marshmallow mixture is well incorporated with the popcorn, and allow the mixture to cool slightly before forming to help it stick together better.
Can I make these ahead for an Easter party?
Absolutely! They can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Are these too sticky for young children to help make?
The mixture is sticky when first combined, but cooling it for 2-3 minutes makes it more manageable. Kids can help add sprinkles and candies, and older children can help form the balls with supervised assistance.
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