S’mores Popcorn Balls Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a playful, absolutely irresistible treat, look no further than these S’mores Popcorn Balls! Imagine classic campfire flavors—gooey marshmallow, chocolatey sweetness, and crunchy graham—with every delightful bite, all wrapped up in a portable, snackable package. These bites are a joyful mashup of nostalgia and fun, perfect for parties, movie nights, or anytime your sweet tooth strikes. Making S’mores Popcorn Balls is not only simple, but also incredibly satisfying, and they’re sure to be an instant crowd-pleaser!

S'mores Popcorn Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic of S’mores Popcorn Balls is that you only need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, each perfectly chosen for a reason. Every item brings something special—flavor, texture, or that classic s’mores flair—so don’t skip a thing!

  • 3 ounce bag natural microwave popcorn: This is your light, crunchy base, reminiscent of that toasted note you find in s’mores.
  • 1/4 cup butter: Adds richness to the marshmallow coating and helps brown the flavors for added depth.
  • 10 ounce bag mini marshmallows: Melts into a gooey, sticky dream that binds everything together, just like over a campfire.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a little warmth and lovely aroma that makes these treats extra-comforting.
  • 2 cups Golden Grahams cereal: Offers that unmistakable graham cracker crunch and flavor, key for a true s’mores experience.
  • 1 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips: Adds pockets of chocolatey decadence in every bite, classic for s’mores fans.

How to Make S’mores Popcorn Balls

Step 1: Pop the Popcorn

Start out by popping your bag of microwave popcorn according to package instructions. Once finished, carefully open the bag and transfer the popcorn into a large mixing bowl. Pick out any unpopped kernels so your S’mores Popcorn Balls have just the right, safe crunch.

Step 2: Melt and Brown the Butter

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Keep a close eye and gently stir—it will go from liquid to toasty golden fairly quickly. That nuttiness adds a subtle, sophisticated edge that takes your S’mores Popcorn Balls up a notch!

Step 3: Add Marshmallows and Melt

As soon as the butter is golden and fragrant, add all those pillowy mini marshmallows. Stir constantly to melt them into a smooth, thick, glossy mixture. This is the glue that brings everything together and locks in that classic s’mores sweetness.

Step 4: Stir in the Vanilla

Once the marshmallows are fully melted, remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract. The heat will help release its intense aroma, infusing the marshmallow mix with a cozy, bakery-style note.

Step 5: Fold in Popcorn and Golden Grahams

Add your popped popcorn and Golden Grahams to the marshmallow mix. Gently fold everything together, trying to coat every piece. Take your time here—slow and steady helps distribute all that gooey goodness for the perfect S’mores Popcorn Balls consistency.

Step 6: Shape the Popcorn Balls

Once the mixture is cool enough to safely touch—but still warm and pliable—lightly spray your hands with nonstick spray. Scoop out about 1 cup of the mixture and press it gently between your palms to form a ball. Work swiftly; as the mixture cools, it’ll get harder to shape.

Step 7: Add the Chocolate Chips

While the S’mores Popcorn Balls are still slightly sticky, sprinkle them with mini semisweet chocolate chips. Lightly press the chips so they adhere to the outside, ensuring you hit a little bit of chocolatey magic with every bite.

Step 8: Cool and Set

Place the finished popcorn balls on a sheet of waxed or parchment paper (or a silicone baking mat) to set. Let them cool completely—they’ll firm up perfectly, holding their round shape while staying soft and chewy inside.

How to Serve S’mores Popcorn Balls

S'mores Popcorn Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A shower of extra mini chocolate chips or a quick drizzle of melted chocolate can turn your S’mores Popcorn Balls from snack to showstopper! For a touch of campfire authenticity, try a few crushed graham cracker crumbs or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pair these treats with a big pitcher of icy cold milk, rich homemade hot chocolate, or a platter of fresh fruit for a fun and balanced dessert spread. Their sweet, gooey goodness plays well with simple sides that don’t compete, letting the s’mores flavors shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Package each S’mores Popcorn Ball in a cute cellophane bag with twine for party favors, or stick them on lollipop sticks for a playful, portable treat. For a rustic campfire vibe, nestle them in a basket lined with parchment. They look great piled on a cake stand at birthday parties or movie nights, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover S’mores Popcorn Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Layers of waxed or parchment paper between the balls help prevent sticking and keep each one perfectly shaped and easy to grab.

Freezing

While ideally enjoyed fresh, you can freeze S’mores Popcorn Balls if you need to make them well ahead of time. Wrap each ball tightly in plastic wrap and store them all in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy as soon as they’re no longer stiff.

Reheating

If your popcorn balls become a tad too firm from storage, a quick 5–10 second burst in the microwave will restore some of their gooey marshmallow charm. Be careful not to overheat or the chocolate chips may melt too much!

FAQs

Can I use air-popped or stove-popped popcorn instead of microwave?

Absolutely! Any plain, unbuttered popcorn works well. Just be sure to measure out about 8 cups and pick out any unpopped kernels to keep the S’mores Popcorn Balls safe and enjoyable.

Can I use regular-sized marshmallows?

Mini marshmallows melt faster and more evenly, but you can substitute with regular marshmallows if needed. Just use about 5 cups and be patient while melting for a smooth texture.

How do I keep the mixture from sticking to my hands?

A light misting of nonstick spray on your hands does wonders for shaping! You can also rub a little butter or oil between your palms to keep everything easy and mess-free while forming the S’mores Popcorn Balls.

Are there any mix-ins or swaps I can try?

If you want to switch things up, try peanut butter chips, caramel bits, or even toasted coconut for a different flavor twist. You could use a cinnamon or chocolate cereal for extra depth, just don’t skip the core s’mores elements for that classic taste.

Will these hold their shape if left out for a party?

Definitely! Just be sure they’re completely cool and set before stacking or serving. They’ll keep their shape beautifully at room temperature, making them perfect for party spreads or take-along treats.

Final Thoughts

Once you try S’mores Popcorn Balls, you’ll understand why they’re such a beloved treat in our family. They’re so easy to make, wildly fun to eat, and packed with playful, cozy flavors reminiscent of campfires and summer nights. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite sweet snack!

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S’mores Popcorn Balls Recipe

These S’mores Popcorn Balls are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat. With gooey marshmallows, crunchy popcorn, and sweet chocolate chips, these popcorn balls are a fun and tasty snack for any occasion.

  • Author: moretti
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 popcorn balls 1x
  • Category: Snack/Dessert
  • Method: Mixing, Shaping
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Popcorn:

  • 3-ounce bag natural microwave popcorn (8 cups popped popcorn)

Marshmallow Mixture:

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 10-ounce bag mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-Ins:

  • 2 cups Golden Grahams cereal
  • 1 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Pop the Popcorn: Pop the popcorn according to package directions; set aside.
  2. Melt Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter.
  3. Cook Butter: Continue cooking until butter begins to turn golden brown.
  4. Add Marshmallows: Add marshmallows and stir constantly until melted.
  5. Stir in Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Add popcorn and Golden Grahams, fold into marshmallow mixture.
  7. Form Popcorn Balls: When mixture is cool enough, shape into balls.
  8. Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and press gently into the popcorn ball.
  9. Cool: Place on a lined surface to cool.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 popcorn ball
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: S’mores Popcorn Balls, Popcorn Balls Recipe, S’mores Recipe, Popcorn Snack, Marshmallow Treat

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