Are you looking for a fun and easy snack to bring to your next party or gathering? Look no further than popcorn balls! These bite-sized treats are perfect for munching on while socializing, and they’re incredibly versatile – you can flavor them with just about anything. From classic caramel to spicy sriracha, there’s a popcorn ball recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll share 18 delicious popcorn ball recipes that are sure to be a hit at your next get-together. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and salty or savory and spicy, we’ve got you covered. So grab some popcorn kernels and let’s get started!
Classic Caramel Popcorn Balls
Classic Caramel Popcorn Balls Recipe
Get ready for a sweet and salty treat that’s perfect for snacking on the go! These chewy caramel popcorn balls are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
5. Add popcorn to the caramel mixture and stir until coated.
6. Allow mixture to cool slightly, then use hands or a spatula to shape into balls (about 1-inch diameter).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Let set at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Popcorn Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with the fun texture of popcorn, perfect for a movie night or party snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, corn syrup, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Add popped popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of the peanut butter-popcorn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with melted chocolate.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including cooling time)
S’mores Popcorn Balls
S’mores Popcorn Balls Recipe
Transform your campfire classic into a sweet and salty treat that’s perfect for snacking on-the-go. These bite-sized popcorn balls combine the gooey goodness of marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers with the crunch of popcorn.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions. Remove any unpopped kernels and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the popped popcorn, corn syrup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the melted butter and mix until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Fold in the mini marshmallows, milk chocolate chips, and crushed graham crackers.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the popcorn is lightly toasted.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint White Chocolate Popcorn Balls
Get ready to delight your senses with these refreshing and decadent popcorn treats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup peppermint extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine the melted white chocolate, peppermint extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the popped popcorn to the white chocolate mixture and stir until evenly coated.
4. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 popcorn balls.
5. Place the popcorn balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time)
Maple Bacon Popcorn Balls
Sweet and savory, Maple Bacon Popcorn Balls are a unique and delicious snack perfect for movie nights or parties. This recipe combines the classic flavors of maple syrup and crispy bacon with crunchy popcorn, all wrapped up in bite-sized balls.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup popped popcorn
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, maple syrup, and brown sugar. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Add popcorn to the saucepan and stir until well coated with the syrup mixture.
5. Stir in crumbled bacon.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cookies and Cream Popcorn Balls
Elevate your snack game with these adorable and delicious Cookies and Cream Popcorn Balls! Crunchy popcorn, creamy buttercream, and crushed cookies come together to create a tasty treat that’s perfect for movie nights or parties.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
• 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies
• 1/2 cup buttercream frosting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the popped popcorn to the bowl and stir until coated evenly.
4. Fold in the crushed cookies and buttercream frosting.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into balls, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Place the popcorn balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fruity Pebbles Popcorn Balls
Fruity Pebbles Popcorn Balls Recipe
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional popcorn balls!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Fruity Pebbles cereal
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large pot, combine Fruity Pebbles cereal and 1/4 cup light corn syrup.
3. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the mixture is well combined and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface or parchment paper.
6. Allow to cool and set for 10-15 minutes.
7. Use a spoon or your hands to shape into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
Cooking Time: None
Tips: If the mixture becomes too sticky, refrigerate it for a few minutes before shaping into balls. You can also add other flavors like citrus zest or nutmeg to give it an extra boost!
Enjoy your Fruity Pebbles Popcorn Balls!
Matcha Green Tea Popcorn Balls
Elevate your snack game with these refreshing Matcha Green Tea Popcorn Balls, perfect for a unique party treat or an afternoon pick-me-up. With the bright green tea flavor and crunchy texture, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried green tea leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker until popped.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together matcha powder and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, mix coconut oil, salt, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
5. Add the matcha mixture to the popcorn and toss until well combined.
6. Shape into small balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are ready in just a few minutes.
Spicy Sriracha Popcorn Balls
Elevate your movie night or party with these addictive Spicy Sriracha Popcorn Balls. The perfect blend of sweet and heat, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to desired level of spiciness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pop popcorn kernels according to package instructions and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, sriracha sauce, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
5. Let cool slightly, then mix in powdered sugar and salt.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form into balls.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Popcorn Balls
Brighten up your snack time with these tangy and sweet lemon blueberry popcorn balls. A perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup dried blueberries, chopped
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup and sugar. Place over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
6. Fold in chopped blueberries and confectioners’ sugar.
7. Using a spoon, shape into small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 1 hour or until the popcorn balls are set.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Toasted Coconut Popcorn Balls
Transform ordinary popcorn into a sweet and indulgent treat with the addition of toasted coconut flakes and a hint of vanilla. These bite-sized balls are perfect for snacking on the go or serving at your next movie night.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine corn syrup and melted butter. Add vanilla extract and stir until combined.
3. Add popcorn to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the syrup mixture.
4. Stir in toasted coconut flakes.
5. Use wet hands to shape popcorn mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10 minutes.
7. Allow balls to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Popcorn Balls
Get ready to enjoy a sweet and savory twist on traditional popcorn with these Pumpkin Spice Popcorn Balls! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for fall gatherings or as a fun snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
– 12-15 milk chocolate chips (white or dark work too!)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add the popped popcorn to the bowl and stir until coated with the pumpkin mixture.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Once chilled, use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Dip each popcorn ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
8. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe is chilled and set in the refrigerator.
Red Velvet Popcorn Balls
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these sweet and tangy Red Velvet Popcorn Balls! This unique flavor combination is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a fun treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popped popcorn
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon red velvet extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine popcorn, corn syrup, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 250°F (120°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, red velvet extract, baking soda, and salt.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into a thin layer.
5. Allow to cool and set, about 30 minutes.
6. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form into balls. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour (including cooling time)
Birthday Cake Popcorn Balls
These bite-sized treats are perfect for birthday parties or any celebration that calls for a sweet and indulgent snack. With the combination of popcorn, cake mix, and melted white chocolate, you’ll be making memories with every delicious bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 package (15.25 oz) birthday cake-flavored mix
– 1/4 cup melted white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Colored sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pop popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker according to package instructions. Remove from heat and stir in corn syrup, sugar, and baking soda until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cake mix and melted white chocolate chips until a dough forms. Fold in softened butter.
4. Add the popcorn mixture to the cake dough and fold until combined.
5. Form into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. If desired, roll in colored sprinkles or edible glitter before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Popcorn Balls
A sweet and crunchy treat that combines the flavors of crisp apples and warm cinnamon, perfect for a cozy movie night or a fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker until you have about 2 cups of popped corn.
2. Melt the butter and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the diced apple, cinnamon, and salt to the melted butter mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the apple-cinnamon mixture over the popcorn and stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Use your hands or a cookie scoop to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Let the popcorn balls cool and harden for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just let it set.
Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Popcorn Balls
Transform popcorn into a decadent treat by coating it in rich dark chocolate and sprinkling with flaky sea salt. Perfect for movie nights or as a special indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and salt.
5. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
6. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel-coated popcorn and stir until well combined.
8. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Peanut Butter Cup Popcorn Balls
Take your popcorn game to the next level with these bite-sized treats that combine the richness of peanut butter and chocolate with the simplicity of popped corn.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the popped corn, peanut butter, and melted butter. Mix until the popcorn is evenly coated.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Add the honey and salt to the melted chocolate and stir until combined.
5. Scoop small handfuls of the peanut butter-popcorn mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat completely.
7. Place the coated popcorn balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are best served fresh, so enjoy within a few hours of making.
Gingerbread Popcorn Balls
Gingerbread Popcorn Balls Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups popped popcorn, lightly buttered
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in ground ginger, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the warm mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until well coated.
5. Let cool slightly, then use your hands to shape into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to pop into the party with these 18 delicious popcorn ball recipes! From classic caramel and chocolate peanut butter to s’mores, peppermint white chocolate, and maple bacon, there’s something for everyone. Try fruity pebbles, matcha green tea, or spicy sriracha for a unique twist. Satisfy your sweet tooth with cookies and cream, lemon blueberry, toasted coconut, or pumpkin spice. Or go bold with red velvet, birthday cake, apple cinnamon, dark chocolate sea salt, peanut butter cup, or gingerbread. Whether you’re hosting a movie night or a party, these popcorn balls are sure to be a hit!
