Step 1: Pop the Popcorn
- Prepare the Popcorn: Start by popping 8 cups of popcorn. You can use an air-popper or make it on the stovetop. If you’re using microwave popcorn, be sure to choose one without butter for a neutral flavor.
- Remove Unpopped Kernels: Once your popcorn is ready, carefully sift through it to remove any unpopped kernels. Place the popcorn in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Marshmallow Coating
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
- Add Marshmallows: Once the butter has melted, add the 10 oz bag of mini marshmallows to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and combined with the butter.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: For added flavor, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This step is optional but adds a nice balance to the sweetness.
Step 3: Combine Popcorn and Marshmallow Mixture
- Coat the Popcorn: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popped popcorn. Using a spatula, stir gently to coat all the popcorn evenly with the gooey marshmallow mixture.
- Grease Your Hands: Lightly grease your hands with nonstick cooking spray or butter to prevent the marshmallow mixture from sticking as you form the popcorn balls.
Step 4: Shape the Ghosts
- Form the Ghosts: Working quickly while the mixture is still warm, scoop out handfuls of popcorn and press them together to form ball shapes (about the size of a tennis ball). For a spooky ghost look, you can gently press the tops to create a domed “head” shape and taper the bottoms.
- Add Chocolate Chip Eyes: Before the marshmallow cools and hardens, press mini chocolate chips into the balls to create eyes for the ghosts. You can also use candy eyes or raisins for an extra spooky touch!
Step 5: Let the Popcorn Balls Set
- Cool and Harden: Place the formed popcorn balls on a sheet of parchment paper or a lightly greased tray. Let them cool and set for about 20-30 minutes, or until they hold their shape firmly.
Serving Suggestions
- Halloween Party Treats: Serve these Ghost Marshmallow Popcorn Balls as a fun, spooky snack for Halloween parties.
- Movie Night: These treats are great for adding a festive touch to a Halloween-themed movie night.
- Decorate More: Get creative! Add extra candy decorations like small licorice strips for mouths, or drizzle melted chocolate over the popcorn balls for more detail.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fun to Make: Shaping and decorating these popcorn balls is an enjoyable activity for both kids and adults.
- Sweet and Chewy: The combination of crunchy popcorn and gooey marshmallow makes each bite irresistible.
- Perfect for Halloween: With their ghostly shapes and chocolate chip eyes, these popcorn balls are the perfect mix of cute and creepy.
Pro Tips
- Work Quickly: The marshmallow mixture can harden quickly, so be sure to shape the popcorn balls while the mixture is still warm.
- Add a Twist: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a few drops of food coloring to the melted marshmallow mixture for colorful popcorn balls.
- Storage: Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to make them ahead of time, they can also be frozen (just thaw them before serving).
Final Thoughts
These Ghost Marshmallow Popcorn Balls are a delightful way to bring Halloween spirit into your kitchen. Easy to make, fun to decorate, and delicious to eat, these spooky treats will become a Halloween staple for years to come! Whether you’re making them with family or serving them at a party, they are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.