Alright, my flavor fanatics! Quinn here, ready to drop some serious deliciousness on your day. Get ready for the ultimate sweet and salty sensation: Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls! These aren’t your grandma’s popcorn balls (unless your grandma is a culinary badass, in which case, high five!). We’re talking seriously addictive, melt-in-your-mouth, OMG-where-have-these-been-all-my-life kind of good.

This recipe embodies everything Cuba Queen is about: bold flavors, simple techniques, and maximum impact. I’m talking pure joy in every bite. I’ve been tweaking and perfecting this recipe for ages, and let me tell you, it’s finally reached flavor nirvana. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a sweet popcorn paradise! I’m beyond hyped to share this Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls recipe with you!

INGREDIENTS You Need for This:

This Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! We’re talking a handful of pantry staples that explode into pure flavor magic.

12 cups popped popcorn (about ½ cup unpopped kernels): Use your favorite method – air-popped, stovetop, or even microwave (though air-popped gives the best texture, trust me).
1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter: Yes, salted is key! It balances the sweetness perfectly and gives these Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls that addictive salty-sweet thing we all crave.
1 (10-ounce) package of mini marshmallows: Name brand or store brand, it doesn’t matter. But fresh marshmallows melt better!
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract is always the way to go. Don’t skimp on this; it adds a depth of flavor that’s totally worth it.
Optional: Sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or sea salt for finishing. Think of these additions for Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls as your own personal touch of culinary genius.

Here’s the Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls game-changer that will blow your mind: using salted butter. It might seem simple, but that touch of salt transforms the whole experience. You’ll find the best, freshest popcorn kernels at your local farmer’s market or co-op. Splurge on the good stuff – your tastebuds will thank you for this Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls ingredient! You can even use brown butter for the ultimate flavor upgrade!

Store any leftover popcorn kernels in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh for your next batch of Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls. This simple step ensures your popcorn pops up light and fluffy every time!

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Alright, flavor adventurers, let’s get this party started! This Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls recipe is so easy, you’ll be popping them out like a pro in no time.

Pop your popcorn: If using air-popper or stovetop, pop until you have 12 cups of popped corn. Remove any unpopped kernels. Don’t stress – your Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls are going to be incredible.
Melt the butter: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Pro tip for Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls perfection: Keep the heat low and slow!
Add the marshmallows: Once the butter is melted, add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Here’s where most people mess up their Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls – but not you! Stir constantly to prevent sticking and burning.
Stir in vanilla extract: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Don’t skip this step – it adds a layer of flavor that takes these Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls to the next level!
Combine popcorn and marshmallow mixture: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn in a VERY large bowl. Gently fold until the popcorn is evenly coated. This is where your Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls transforms into pure magic!
Shape the popcorn balls: While the mixture is still warm (but cool enough to handle!), lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray. Grab about ½ cup of the mixture and gently form it into a ball. Place the popcorn balls on a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper to cool.
Add your finishing touches (optional): Before the popcorn balls cool completely, sprinkle with sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt. This is where you can really let your creativity shine! In my kitchen, this Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls takes exactly 5-7 minutes per ball, depending on how fast you work.
Cool and set: Let the Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls cool completely before serving. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour. While your Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls are working their magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold!

Your Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls should look shiny, slightly sticky, and irresistible! If the mixture is too sticky, add a little more popcorn. If it’s too dry, add a little more melted butter.

PRESENTATION:

Presentation is key! It’s time to show off this Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls for maximum impact. These aren’t just snacks; they’re edible works of art!

Serve these Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls on a platter or tiered stand for a party. Individual wrappers make them perfect for a quick treat or a party favor. Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate sweet treat. For a grown-up twist, pair them with a bold red wine or a dark stout. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls at potlucks.

This Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls absolutely slays at birthday parties! For a festive presentation, use colorful sprinkles or themed decorations. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for Easy Marshmallow Popcorn Balls, a fun snack that’s perfect for any occasion.

Leftover popcorn balls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can even crumble them over ice cream or yogurt for a sweet and crunchy topping. This Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls reminds me of another flavor explosion, my One-Pan Chicken Feta Pomegranate!

FAQs:

Got questions? Quinn’s got answers! Here are some common challenges and my super-secret tips for Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls success.

Can I make these Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls spicier?
- Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the melted marshmallow mixture for a kick. Don’t be afraid to experiment! I once added a chipotle powder and everyone raved!
What if I don’t have vanilla extract for my Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls?
- No problem! You can substitute with almond extract or a different flavor extract. Or you can omit it altogether – they’ll still be delicious!
How do I know when my Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls is perfectly done?
- The mixture should be smooth and easy to work with. It should also be cool enough to handle without burning your hands.
Can I use different types of popcorn for these Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls?
- Definitely! Kettle corn or caramel corn would add an extra layer of flavor. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly.
How do I prevent my Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls from being too sticky?
- Make sure you don’t overcook the marshmallow mixture. Also, lightly greasing your hands helps prevent the popcorn from sticking.
Can I make these Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls ahead of time?
- Yes! They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
What if my marshmallow mixture is too hard?
- Add a tablespoon of milk or water to the saucepan and stir over low heat until smooth again.

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and having fun. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make these Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls your own! If this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try my Best Chili Recipe!

CONCLUSION:

These Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls represent everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold, fun, and totally addictive flavors that bring people together. My testing experiences have taught me that sometimes the simplest ingredients can create the most unforgettable treats. This recipe is a flavor explosion in every bite!

Here are my Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Power Tips:

Salted Butter is Key: Don’t skip the salted butter! It’s what balances the sweetness and creates that addictive flavor.
Gentle Folding is Essential: Don’t overmix the popcorn and marshmallow mixture! Gentle folding prevents the popcorn from getting crushed.
Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings! Sprinkles, chocolate chips, nuts – the possibilities are endless.

Here are a few Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls variations I’ve created and loved:

Chocolate Chunk Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls: Add chocolate chips and a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Peanut Butter Cup Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls: Stir in peanut butter and chopped peanut butter cups.
Salty Caramel Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls: Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt. Check out Marshmallow Popcorn Balls for more inspiration and variations!

The Salty Caramel version gets the biggest reactions at my place! Now, go make these Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls your signature dish. I have total confidence in your cooking skills. For more bold flavor adventures, check out my Caramel Apple Sangria Recipe! For a 3-Ingredient Soft Chewy Marshmallow Popcorn Balls Recipe, look here!

Go create some Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls memories! Don’t forget to share your creations with me!

Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls

Print Recipe

These Sweet Marshmallow Popcorn Balls are a fun, easy, and delicious treat perfect for parties or movie nights. Combining fluffy popcorn with gooey marshmallows creates an irresistible snack that everyone will love!

Author: Quinn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 8 popcorn balls
Category: Snack
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

6 quarts popped popcorn
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
10 ounces marshmallows
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: sprinkles or candies

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Pop the popcorn and place it in a large bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the marshmallows and salt, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
Remove the marshmallow mixture from the heat and pour it over the popcorn. Gently toss to coat the popcorn evenly.
Allow the popcorn to cool slightly, then use your hands (lightly coated with butter or cooking spray) to form the popcorn into balls.
If desired, roll the popcorn balls in sprinkles or candies while they are still slightly sticky.
Place the popcorn balls on wax paper to cool completely.

Notes

For easier handling, lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray before forming the popcorn balls. You can also add food coloring to the marshmallow mixture for festive occasions.