If you’re looking for an irresistible snack that combines playful textures and delightful flavors, I can’t wait to share this Popcorn Marshmallow Treats with White Chocolate Chips and Sprinkles Recipe with you. These treats bring together the light crunch of buttery popcorn, the gooey sweetness of melted marshmallows, and the creamy burst of white chocolate chips, all topped off with colorful sprinkles that add a cheerful touch. Perfect for sharing at parties, movie nights, or whenever a little sweet indulgence calls, these treats are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients, each playing an important role in creating that perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From the buttery popcorn to the creamy white chocolate chips, every component adds its magic to this snack.
- 2 bags of microwavable popcorn: Provides the crunchy and airy base that makes these treats so irresistible.
- 1 10-ounce bag of marshmallows: Melts down to form the sticky, sweet glue that holds everything together.
- 6 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly without burning.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows: Adds soft, chewy pockets inside the treats for extra marshmallow goodness.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Brings creamy sweetness and little bursts of flavor throughout every bite.
- Colorful sprinkles: Adds a festive look and a slight crunch, making these treats perfect for any celebration.
How to Make Popcorn Marshmallow Treats with White Chocolate Chips and Sprinkles Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish
Before you dive into mixing, get your 9×11 baking pan ready by coating it with butter. This step is essential to prevent sticking later on and will help you lift out those perfect squares once the treats have set. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter slowly, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. Once melted, add the entire 10-ounce bag of marshmallows and keep stirring until they’re fully melted into a smooth, sticky mixture. The aroma at this stage is pure comfort and excitement!
Step 3: Pop and Prepare Popcorn
While your marshmallows are melting, pop your two bags of microwave popcorn. When done, pour the popcorn into a large bowl, then take a moment to pick out any unpopped kernels. Those sneaky kernels can be unpleasant surprises, so it’s worth the extra care.
Step 4: Combine Popcorn and Melted Marshmallows
Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn in the bowl (or back into the pot if you prefer) and stir to coat every crispy kernel with that sticky, sweet marshmallow glaze. This step is where the magic happens as the popcorn transforms into a delightful treat.
Step 5: Fold in Mini Marshmallows and White Chocolate Chips
Now comes an exciting twist — gently stir in the mini marshmallows and white chocolate chips. These little additions add softness and subtle bursts of creamy sweetness throughout, making each bite a delightful surprise. Take your time folding them in evenly.
Step 6: Spread the Mixture in the Pan
Transfer the popcorn mixture to your prepared baking dish. Using buttered hands or a buttered spoon, press it down gently and evenly. Yes, it will be sticky, but that’s part of the fun and ensures your treats hold together nicely once set.
Step 7: Add Sprinkles and Let Set
Sprinkle the top generously with colorful sprinkles to add that festive flair and a bit of crunch. Then cover the dish and let it rest at room temperature for a couple of hours. This rest time is key so the marshmallow sets up perfectly to create those deliciously chewy bars.
How to Serve Popcorn Marshmallow Treats with White Chocolate Chips and Sprinkles Recipe
Garnishes
While these treats are delightful as-is, consider adding a drizzle of extra melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of edible glitter for an added wow factor when serving. The colorful sprinkles on top already make them look party-ready, but these little touches can elevate the presentation even more.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet popcorn marshmallow delights with a cool glass of milk or a hot cup of cocoa to complement their sweet and buttery flavors. For grown-up gatherings, they work wonderfully alongside spiced cider or even a creamy coffee drink.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the treats on a bright, decorative platter or cut them into bite-sized pieces and offer them in colorful paper cupcake liners for an easy, festive snack. They also make charming edible gifts—wrap squares individually in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a homemade touch that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they tend to disappear fast), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The treats stay soft and chewy for up to three days, making them great for quick snacks the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these popcorn marshmallow treats by wrapping individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to a month in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t usually necessary since these treats are best enjoyed at room temperature or lightly cooled. However, if you prefer, you can warm them for a few seconds in the microwave to soften them slightly, but be careful not to melt the chocolate chips too much.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Absolutely! The mini marshmallows provide small bursts of softness, but if you only have regular marshmallows, just chop them into smaller pieces for a similar effect.
Is it possible to make this recipe without butter?
Butter adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly, but you can substitute with a neutral oil like coconut oil if needed, keeping in mind it may slightly change the flavor.
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Yes! While white chocolate chips add a creamy sweetness that pairs beautifully here, dark or milk chocolate chips would also work if you prefer a richer or less sweet touch.
How long should I wait before cutting the treats?
It’s best to wait at least two hours at room temperature to allow the marshmallow to firm up fully. Cutting too soon might cause the treats to fall apart or stick too much.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely check the labels on your popcorn and sprinkles to ensure they’re gluten-free, but the core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this snack a safe bet for gluten-sensitive friends.
Final Thoughts
Making these Popcorn Marshmallow Treats with White Chocolate Chips and Sprinkles Recipe is such a joyful experience, and the results never disappoint. They bring a nostalgic sweetness, playful textures, and a burst of color to any occasion. I truly hope you have as much fun making and sharing them as I do—your taste buds will thank you!
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Popcorn Marshmallow Treats with White Chocolate Chips and Sprinkles Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Popcorn Marshmallow Treats are a delightful, sweet snack combining fluffy marshmallows, buttery popcorn, and creamy white chocolate chips. Perfectly sticky and topped with colorful sprinkles, these treats offer a fun and festive crunch that’s easy to make and share.
Ingredients
Popcorn
- 2 bags of microwavable popcorn
Marshmallow Mixture
- 1 10-ounce bag of marshmallows
- 6 tablespoons butter
Additional Mix-ins
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- Colorful sprinkles (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep Your Baking Dish: Butter a 9×11-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent the marshmallow popcorn mixture from sticking and to make it easier to remove the treats after setting.
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan or pot, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning until fully melted.
- Melt Marshmallows: Add the 10-ounce bag of marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously until they melt into a smooth, sticky mixture with a pleasant aroma.
- Pop the Popcorn: While melting the marshmallows, pop the two bags of microwavable popcorn according to package instructions. Once popped, transfer to a large bowl and remove any unpopped kernels.
- Combine Popcorn and Marshmallow Mixture: Pour the popped popcorn into the pot with the melted marshmallow mixture and stir thoroughly to coat every kernel evenly with the sticky marshmallow.
- Add Mini Marshmallows and White Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in 1 cup of mini marshmallows and 1 cup of white chocolate chips ensuring these are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Spread in Pan: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using buttered hands or a buttered spoon, press the mixture down evenly to form a compact layer.
- Top with Sprinkles: Sprinkle colorful sprinkles generously over the top to add festivity and texture.
- Let It Set: Cover the pan and let the treats set at room temperature for about 2 hours, allowing the marshmallow to firm up and hold the treats together.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy your sweet, crunchy popcorn marshmallow treats.
Notes
- Ensure to remove unpopped kernels from the popcorn to avoid unpleasant bites.
- Butter your hands or utensils when handling the sticky mixture to prevent it from sticking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
- The treats can be customized by adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
