Get ready to conjure up the most adorable and delicious Halloween treat that will make both kids and adults scream with delight! These Ghost Marshmallow Popcorn Balls are not just a snack, they're an experience that combines the gooey magic of marshmallows, the crunch of popcorn, and the playful spirit of Halloween. Imagine biting into a treat that's part sweet, part spooky, and 100% irresistible – these ghostly goodies are about to become your new seasonal obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 balls
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 bag (10 oz) marshmallows
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup candy corn
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup icing (for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare a large mixing bowl and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for cooling the popcorn balls.
- In a large saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add marshmallows to the melted butter and continue stirring until completely smooth and fully melted, creating a creamy marshmallow mixture.
- Remove marshmallow mixture from heat and immediately pour over the popped popcorn in the large mixing bowl.
- Gently fold and mix the popcorn with marshmallow mixture, ensuring even coating of all popcorn kernels.
- Fold in candy corn and chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the marshmallow-coated popcorn.
- Allow mixture to cool slightly until comfortable to handle, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Using clean, slightly buttered hands, shape the mixture into round balls, pressing firmly to compact ingredients.
- Place formed popcorn balls on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet to set and cool completely.
- Once cooled, use white icing to create ghost-like faces on each popcorn ball, adding playful Halloween-themed decorations.
- Let icing set for 10-15 minutes before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Tips
- Butter Your Hands: Before shaping the popcorn balls, lightly butter your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking and make forming easier.
- Work Quickly: Marshmallow mixture sets fast, so have all ingredients ready and work efficiently when mixing and shaping.
- Even Coating: Ensure all popcorn kernels are evenly coated with marshmallow for consistent texture and flavor.
- Decorating Hack: Use a piping bag or a small zip-lock bag with the corner snipped for precise ghost face decorations.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
- Kid-Friendly Activity: Let children help decorate the ghost faces for a fun Halloween cooking experience.
- Temperature Matters: Let the marshmallow mixture cool slightly before handling to prevent burns and make shaping easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 25mg
