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My family goes wild for this playful Grinch Popcorn during our holiday movie nights. Sweet sticky marshmallow coating tinted the perfect shade of green hugs every kernel while bright red M&Ms add that perfect pop of Christmas cheer. The way it combines sweet and salty flavors makes it absolutely irresistible.
What Makes This Popcorn Special
The magic of this treat is how it brings together crunchy popcorn with gooey marshmallow in the most delightful way. I love how simple it is to whip up even when the holiday rush hits. That vibrant green color never fails to make everyone smile and the sweet salty combo keeps hands reaching for more.
Ingredients for Grinch Popcorn
- Popcorn: I use 10 cups fresh popped corn make sure to fish out those pesky unpopped kernels.
- Butter: Just 3 tablespoons makes the marshmallow coating silky smooth.
- Mini Marshmallows: 3 cups create that perfect sticky sweet coating.
- Food Coloring: A mix of yellow and blue creates our signature Grinch green.
- Red M&M's: These represent the Grinch's growing heart so cute.
- Salt: Don't skip this it makes all the flavors pop.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Popcorn
- Start with 10 cups of fresh popped corn picking out any unpopped kernels. Give it a good sprinkle of salt.
- Make the Marshmallow Mixture
- Melt your butter in a pan over medium heat then stir in those mini marshmallows until they're completely smooth.
- Color the Mixture
- Now comes the fun part add yellow food coloring first then just a tiny bit of blue until you get that perfect Grinch green.
- Combine the Popcorn and Marshmallow
- Pour that green goodness all over your popcorn folding gently until every piece is coated.
- Add Festive Toppings
- Spread it all out on a lined baking sheet and quickly sprinkle with M&Ms and extra marshmallows while it's still sticky.
- Cool and Serve
- Let it cool down then break into chunks. Store any leftovers in an airtight container they'll stay good for two days.
My Secret Tips
Always start with fresh plain popcorn and salt it right away while it's hot. Want it extra crunchy? Use less marshmallow mixture. Craving something gooey? Add a bit more. Just remember to work quickly with those toppings before the marshmallow sets.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I mix things up with crushed candy canes or a drizzle of white chocolate. Holiday sprinkles add such fun sparkle. You can even play with different colors for other occasions my kids love when I make purple or blue versions for their birthdays.
Keeping It Fresh
This popcorn tastes best right away but you can keep it for a couple days in an airtight container. The marshmallow coating might make it a bit chewier over time but trust me nobody ever complains.
Party Perfect
Every time I bring this to holiday gatherings it's the first thing to disappear. That bright green color catches everyone's eye and the sweet salty combo keeps them coming back. It's become my signature holiday party contribution.
Creating Kitchen Memories
My favorite part is making this with my little ones. They love helping pop the corn and especially love adding those red M&Ms. It's become such a special part of our holiday traditions something they look forward to every year.
Movie Night Magic
Nothing beats curling up with a big bowl of this while watching Christmas movies. It's especially perfect during How the Grinch Stole Christmas the kids always giggle about eating green popcorn while watching.
Why We Love It
There's something magical about how this simple treat brings so much joy. The way it combines familiar flavors with holiday fun makes it special. Every batch tells a story of family time cozy nights and holiday memories being made.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I get the right Grinch green color?
Mix yellow food coloring first, then add small amounts of blue until you achieve the perfect Grinch green shade.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Yes, store in an airtight container. Best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and texture.
- → What type of popcorn works best?
Plain popped popcorn works best - either air-popped or minimal oil. Avoid microwave popcorn with butter flavoring.
- → Why add decorations while still warm?
Adding marshmallows and M&Ms while the popcorn is still warm helps them stick better to the coating.
- → Can I use different candies?
Yes, while red M&Ms match the Grinch theme, you can use other red candies or holiday-themed decorations.