Some desserts just take you back to childhood, and marshmallow popcorn balls are definitely one of them. Sweet, chewy, colorful, and just a little bit sticky — they’re the kind of treat that makes any party feel instantly more fun. What I love most is that they’re no-bake, come together quickly, and kids can actually help shape them (just make sure the mixture isn’t too hot before little hands dive in).
These are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or even just a cozy movie night at home. You can play around with the colors by using different flavors of Jello gelatin, so every batch can look a little different. Imagine a rainbow platter of these at your next gathering — instant crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 (10-ounce) bag miniature marshmallows
1/4 cup salted butter
1 tablespoon water
3 ounces Jello gelatin (any flavor)
12 cups popped popcorn
Tip: Make sure the popcorn is plain — no butter or extra seasoning — so the marshmallow coating sticks well and the flavor shines.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by melting the butter in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the marshmallows, water, and Jello gelatin. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add the popped popcorn to the pot and stir gently until every kernel is evenly coated. This part can get a little messy, but it’s worth it. To shape the popcorn balls, butter your hands lightly to prevent sticking, then scoop and press the mixture into balls about the size of a tennis ball. Place them on wax paper to cool and set.
You should get about 8–9 popcorn balls from this recipe. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days.
Why You’ll Love These
They’re fun, nostalgic, and super easy to make. The marshmallow coating gives the popcorn a soft chewiness, while the Jello adds both flavor and bright color. These treats feel festive without much effort, and they’re one of those desserts that always sparks conversation at parties.
Storage and Serving
These popcorn balls are best eaten fresh, within a day or two, since they can harden over time. If you want to keep them soft for longer, wrap each ball in plastic wrap before storing them in an airtight container. They’re perfect for packing in lunch boxes, handing out as party favors, or just keeping on the counter for a quick sweet bite.