Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats Recipe
Hey friend, if you’re on the hunt for a snack that’s both fun and downright delicious, you’ll want to try this Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats Recipe. Trust me, it’s not just popcorn with a sprinkle of happiness—it’s this nostalgic, sweet, and colorful treat that brings a party right into your kitchen. I love pulling this out whenever I want to impress guests or just treat myself to something a little extra special without a ton of fuss.
These treats hit all the right notes: buttery, fluffy popcorn coated in gooey marshmallows with that gorgeous confetti flair—and bonus points for tossing in a scoop of cake batter protein powder to keep you energized. Whether you’re making them for a birthday party, movie night, or just because it’s Wednesday, this Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats Recipe is one that’s totally worth your time and promises big smiles every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together like a dream, balancing fun flavors and textures. A quick tip—using fresh popcorn and quality marshmallows really makes a difference in the final treat’s fluffiness and chewiness.
- Butter: I use unsalted butter to control the saltiness and get that rich, creamy coating.
- Popcorn: Freshly popped without any extra seasoning—plain is best here for that sweet marshmallow kick.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash adds warmth and depth that makes the marshmallow coating pop.
- Cake batter protein powder: This is my personal secret for a fun flavor twist plus a little protein boost.
- Regular size marshmallows: They melt perfectly for that gooey, sticky texture that holds everything together.
- Funfetti sprinkles: These are what make your treats look like an instant celebration—colorful and cheerful!
Variations
I love switching things up depending on what mood I’m in or who I’m sharing with. Feel free to get creative with this Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats Recipe—it’s super forgiving and welcomes your personal spin.
- Dairy-Free Version: I swapped butter for coconut oil once, and it gave a subtle tropical vibe that was surprisingly delicious.
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Adding mini chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate on top can’t go wrong for a richer experience.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts or pretzel pieces for a salty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the sweet marshmallow.
- Seasonal Spin: For fall, I sprinkle pumpkin spice or cinnamon into the mix—instantly festive!
How to Make Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats Recipe
Step 1: Pop and Prep Your Popcorn
Start by popping your popcorn fresh—either air-popped or on the stovetop works great. Once popped, spread it out on a large baking sheet to make sure it cools quickly and doesn’t get soggy. This also makes it easier when it’s time to mix everything together.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, then add marshmallows and stir gently until melted into a smooth, sticky sauce. Don’t rush this part or crank up the heat, or you risk burning the marshmallows—slow and steady wins the sweet treat race!
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla and Cake Batter Protein Powder
Once your marshmallow mixture is silky smooth, stir in the vanilla extract and cake batter protein powder. The protein powder adds a lovely flavor without overpowering the sweetness, and it helps pull the treat together nicely.
Step 4: Combine Popcorn and Marshmallow Mix
Pour the warm marshmallow coating over your popcorn, then gently fold with a spatula to coat every kernel. Work quickly here—once it cools a bit, it becomes less sticky and harder to mix evenly.
Step 5: Add Funfetti Sprinkles and Set
Sprinkle funfetti all over the coated popcorn and carefully fold them in. Then spread the mixture evenly in your pan or onto parchment paper to cool and set. Once cool, break into chunky pieces and get ready to indulge!
How to Serve Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep the garnishing simple—extra funfetti or a light drizzle of white chocolate works wonders. It keeps the treats looking festive without overcomplicating the flavors.
Side Dishes
These treats shine on their own, but if you’re hosting a movie night, pairing them with salty snacks like roasted nuts or cheese popcorn creates a fun sweet-savory contrast everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For birthdays or celebrations, I’ve served these treats in colorful mason jars or wrapped in cellophane tied with a ribbon. They also make fantastic party favors or sweet additions to a dessert table—you really can’t go wrong with a pop of color and sweetness!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats in an airtight container at room temperature. From my experience, they stay perfect for up to a week—still chewy, still colorful, and just as tasty.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the treats in zip-top bags with the air squeezed out. I’ve found that they thaw beautifully without losing that signature gooey chew.
Reheating
To revive frozen or stored treats, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave softens them up nicely—just be careful not to overdo it or they’ll get too sticky and melty!
FAQs
-
Can I use pre-popped popcorn or microwave popcorn for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure any microwave popcorn you use isn’t heavily salted or buttered, since the marshmallows and butter will add plenty of sweetness and richness.
-
What’s the best way to prevent the treats from sticking to your hands?
I like to lightly butter my hands or spray them with non-stick cooking spray before shaping the treats. It makes the process so much cleaner and easier!
-
Can I skip the cake batter protein powder?
Yes, you can! The protein powder adds flavor and nutritional benefits, but the treats will still be delicious without it.
-
How do I make these treats extra crispy?
For crunchier treats, spread the coated popcorn thinner on the baking sheet and let them cool completely before breaking apart. You can also refrigerate them to firm up if you prefer.
-
Are funfetti sprinkles necessary?
They’re definitely the visual fun part, but if you don’t have them, colorful mini M&Ms or even small candy pearls can be a great substitute!
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats Recipe is such a joyful snack to whip up when you want to brighten your day—or anyone else’s. I always feel like I’m adding a bit of magic into the kitchen when I make these, with the pop of color and that cozy marshmallow hug in every bite. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll probably find yourself making it for every occasion (or no occasion at all). So don’t wait—grab your ingredients, invite your favorite people over, and enjoy this sweet, fun treat together!
Print
Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats recipe combines the crunchy delight of popcorn with the sweetness of marshmallow and festive funfetti sprinkles. Enhanced with a hint of vanilla and a scoop of cake batter protein powder, this treat is perfect for a colorful, protein-boosted snack that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Popcorn Base
- 7 cups popcorn
Marshmallow Mixture
- 3 tbsp butter
- 50 regular size marshmallows
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 scoop cake batter protein powder
Topping
- Funfetti sprinkles (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Popcorn: Begin by popping the popcorn kernels to yield approximately 7 cups of fresh popcorn. Set this aside in a large mixing bowl, ensuring no unpopped kernels remain to avoid unpleasant bites.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 50 regular size marshmallows and stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Flavorings and Protein Powder: Remove the marshmallow mixture from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 scoop of cake batter protein powder until well combined and smooth, ensuring the protein powder is evenly distributed.
- Combine with Popcorn: Quickly pour the marshmallow mixture over the prepared popcorn in the mixing bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture into the popcorn until all pieces are evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Add Funfetti Sprinkles: Sprinkle the desired amount of funfetti sprinkles over the coated popcorn and gently fold again to distribute the colorful sprinkles throughout.
- Set and Serve: Transfer the popcorn mixture to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pan. Press lightly with a spatula to create an even layer. Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into pieces and serving.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly popped popcorn without added butter or salt.
- You can substitute cake batter protein powder with vanilla or unflavored protein powder if preferred.
- Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan helps the treats hold together better once set.
- Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Feel free to customize with different sprinkles or add-ins like mini chocolate chips for a variation.
Keywords: funfetti popcorn treats, marshmallow popcorn, protein popcorn snack, homemade popcorn treats, funfetti marshmallow popcorn
