Ingredients
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup Valentine M&Ms
- 1/4 cup Valentine sprinkles
- Optional: 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (for mixing in)
- For wrapping: cellophane bags, ribbon, Valentine tags
Method
Prep the popcorn
- Pop the popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels. Place in a large bowl and set aside.
Make the marshmallow coating
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine everything
- Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and stir quickly to coat evenly. Add M&Ms and sprinkles, stirring gently to distribute throughout.
Shape into balls
- Let the mixture cool for about 2 minutes until it's safe to handle but still warm. Butter your hands lightly, then scoop and press the popcorn into baseball-sized balls. Work quickly before the mixture cools completely.
Wrap and present
- Once cooled completely, wrap each popcorn ball in a cellophane bag and tie with ribbon. Add a Valentine tag if you want. Stack them in a container for easy transport to class.
Notes
Helpful Tips
- Work fast when shaping the balls. The mixture gets harder to mold as it cools.
- Butter your hands generously to prevent sticking.
- Make these the night before and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- For nut-free classrooms, double-check that your M&Ms are processed in a nut-free facility.
- Skip the M&Ms and use all sprinkles if you need a chocolate-free option.