These Ghost Popcorn Balls are a fun and spooky treat! Made with fluffy popcorn, sticky marshmallows, and a hint of chocolate, they are perfect for Halloween parties.
Making these is a blast! I love getting the kids involved to help shape them into ghostly figures. Plus, who can resist a snack that’s both cute and crunchy? 👻🍿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Popcorn: Air-popped popcorn works best, but microwave popcorn is an easy alternative. Just be sure to choose a flavor without butter or salt, as we’re adding those later!
Mini Marshmallows: These give the popcorn its sticky texture. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can use vegan marshmallows, which work just as well!
Candy Melts: White candy melts create that ghostly look. If you can’t find them, white chocolate works too. For the eyes, use mini chocolate chips or even black icing for a fun twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, but coconut oil is a good substitute if you want a dairy-free version. It adds a lovely flavor too!
How Do I Get My Popcorn Balls to Hold Their Shape?
The trick to making sure these popcorn balls stay together is in the mixing and shaping. Here’s how to do it well:
- Before shaping, let the popcorn cool slightly after mixing with the marshmallow. This avoids burns!
- Greasing your hands helps prevent sticking and makes them easier to mold.
- Don’t rush while shaping! Firmly pressing the mixture together ensures they hold their shape while setting.
Remember, the key is to work quickly with the warm mixture before it cools and hardens!
Ghost Popcorn Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Popcorn Balls:
- 12 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Ghost Coating:
- 1 cup white candy melts or white chocolate chips
- Black candy melts or mini chocolate chips (for the eyes)
For Shaping:
- Cooking spray or butter (for your hands)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 20-30 minutes for cooling and setting. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delightful batch of spooky treats ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Popcorn:
Start by popping your popcorn. If you’re using unpopped kernels, follow the instructions on your popcorn maker, or use a stovetop method. Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels so you don’t bite into one later!
2. Melt the Butter and Marshmallows:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted, add the mini marshmallows. Stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract for that extra flavor!
3. Coat the Popcorn:
Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the popped popcorn. Gently mix until all the popcorn is evenly coated. It might be a bit sticky, but that’s what makes it delicious!
4. Shape the Balls:
Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray or butter. Take small handfuls of the mixture and shape them into large balls, pressing firmly so they hold together. Place the popcorn balls on a sheet of wax or parchment paper to set. It’s fun to get creative with different sizes!
5. Prepare the Ghost Coating:
While the popcorn balls are setting, melt the white candy melts or white chocolate in the microwave (in 30-second intervals) or over a double boiler until completely smooth.
6. Create the Ghostly Appearance:
Dip the top of each popcorn ball into the melted white candy to create the ghost “cap.” Let the excess candy drip off, then return the coated popcorn balls to the parchment paper to harden.
7. Add the Eyes:
Once the white candy has set slightly but is still soft, take the melted black candy melts or chocolate chips and dot two eyes onto the white candy portion of each ghost. You can use a toothpick or a small piping bag for precision.
8. Let Them Cool:
Allow the Ghost Popcorn Balls to cool completely until the candy coating hardens, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Patience is key!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your ghosts are set, they’re ready to serve! These make a perfect spooky addition to any Halloween party or just a fun treat for the family. Enjoy your Ghost Popcorn Balls!
Can I Use Any Type of Popcorn for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While air-popped popcorn is preferred for a lighter snack, microwave popcorn works too—just choose an unsalted version for the best results. Just be sure to remove any unpopped kernels!
How Do I Store Leftover Ghost Popcorn Balls?
Store any leftover popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature. They usually last for about 2-3 days, but they’re so delicious, I bet they won’t last that long!
Can I Make These Ghost Popcorn Balls Vegan?
Yes! You can easily modify this recipe by using vegan butter and vegan marshmallows. Just ensure that the candy melts are also dairy-free, and you’re all set for a delicious vegan treat!
What If the Marshmallow Mixture Becomes Too Sticky to Handle?
If the mixture feels too sticky to shape, lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray again. You can also refrigerate the mixture for a few minutes to help firm it up before rolling into balls.
