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Marshmallow Popcorn Balls

These marshmallow popcorn balls are sweet, crispy, and chewy — everyone's favorite combination! They're easy to make, and the marshmallows make them similar to the crispy rice cereal bars that are so popular.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 3005.4 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Saucepan (4-quart) For popping corn
  • 1 Medium Saucepan For melting marshmallows
  • 1 Large Mixing Spoon or heat-resistant spatula

Ingredients
  

Main

  • cooking spray
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • ½ cup popcorn kernels
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 5 cups miniature marshmallows

Instructions
 

  • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray; set aside.
  • Heat oil in a 4-quart saucepan over high heat. Add popcorn kernels to hot oil. Cover the pan and cook until popping ceases, shaking the pot occasionally. Remove from heat and pour popcorn into the prepared dish.
  • Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Cook and stir marshmallows in hot butter until melted. Pour marshmallow mixture over popcorn, then use a spoon to mix thoroughly until evenly coated.
  • Allow mixture to cool enough to handle. Spray your hands with cooking spray. Shape popcorn with your hands into 8 equal balls.

Notes

Achieving perfectly popped corn is key; use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and ensure even heat distribution. For the marshmallow mixture, low heat is crucial to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth, cohesive syrup. Work quickly once the marshmallow mixture is poured over the popcorn, mixing thoroughly before it sets. Allow the mixture to cool just enough to handle; shaping while still warm but not hot prevents sticking and allows for easier formation. For extra flavor and texture, consider incorporating a pinch of sea salt into the marshmallow mixture or adding mix-ins like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed pretzels before shaping. Ensure hands are well-greased for shaping to prevent sticking and achieve smooth, uniform balls.