A festive, crunchy treat perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Sugar pie, this Candy Cane Popcorn Mix is what holiday snacking dreams are made of! It’s the perfect mix of sweet and salty, with crunchy popcorn, creamy white chocolate, and a pepperminty twist that’s as festive as a snow day. Whether you’re snuggling up for a Christmas movie marathon or filling treat bags for gifts, this mix is guaranteed to bring the holiday cheer.
Ingredients
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about ½ cup kernels): Freshly popped and fluffy.
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or melting wafers: Creamy and sweet.
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening: Keeps the chocolate smooth.
- 1 cup crushed candy canes: Adds a peppermint crunch.
- ½ cup mini marshmallows: For a touch of softness.
- Optional: Holiday sprinkles or red and green candies for decoration.
Supplies Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or wax paper
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace:
Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Pop your popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels to ensure every bite is perfect.
- Melt the White Chocolate:
Combine the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and glossy. - Coat the Popcorn:
Pour the melted white chocolate over the popcorn in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently with a spatula to coat each kernel evenly. - Add the Candy Canes and Marshmallows:
Sprinkle the crushed candy canes and mini marshmallows over the popcorn. Toss lightly to mix everything together. - Spread and Decorate:
Spread the popcorn mix onto the prepared baking sheet. Add sprinkles or candies while the chocolate is still warm for a festive touch. - Let It Set:
Allow the mix to cool and the chocolate to harden, about 15-20 minutes at room temperature or 10 minutes in the fridge. - Break Apart and Serve:
Once set, break the mix into clusters and serve it up in a big festive bowl, or package it in treat bags for gifting. It’s ready to dazzle!
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week for a firmer texture.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Tip 1: Add a drizzle of dark chocolate or caramel for an extra layer of flavor.
- Tip 2: Use red and green candies or sprinkles to match your holiday theme.
- Tip 3: For a nutty twist, mix in chopped almonds or pecans.
Variations
- Mint Chocolate Mix: Swap the white chocolate for semi-sweet and add a few drops of peppermint extract.
- S’mores Mix: Add graham cracker pieces and chocolate chips for a campfire-inspired version.
- Nutty Popcorn: Stir in roasted peanuts or cashews for a salty-sweet combo.
FAQ
Q: Can I use pre-popped popcorn?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s plain and unsalted for the best results.
Q: Can I make this mix dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free white chocolate and marshmallows for a vegan-friendly version.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Of course! Prepare it a day or two in advance, and store it in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
This Candy Cane Popcorn Mix is the ultimate holiday treat—easy to make, fun to share, and downright delicious. Whether it’s for gifting, snacking, or a festive movie night, this mix will have everyone singing “Joy to the World.” So grab your candy canes and popcorn, darlin’, and let’s make the season extra sweet!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this site are affiliate links. Portions of this content are generated by AI.