Easy Grinch Popcorn

This easy Grinch popcorn is perfect for the festive season. Combining the crunch of air popped popcorn with the sweetness of the green marshmallow mixture, this sweet treat brings the Grinch's spirit right into your home.

This recipe is not only easy and delicious, but visually appealing and so fun to make. Enjoy during various festive occasions from a Christmas movie night to holiday parties.

I love making these simple recipes, whether it's the Grinch Popcorn or easy Christmas popcorn, for various festive occasions. While they're the perfect treat (like our Christmas wreath cookies), they also make great gifts, delightful snacks, and add a fun touch to the holiday dessert spread.

Pairing with a warm cup of festive hot cocoa or sipping on green Christmas drinks creates the perfect cozy night in. If you're looking for something more exciting, set up dessert table with Christmas reindeer chex mix and white chocolate Christmas crack.

Why you'll love this festive popcorn

• It's an easy recipe perfect for family gatherings
• With the fun green colors and red sprinkles, it makes a great homemade gift
• This recipe appeals to both kids and adults
• With the crunchy popcorn and sweet marshmallows, it has the perfect savory sweet balance
• You can make this recipe in advance for connivence

What you'll need for homemade popcorn

• Popcorn - Air popped popcorn is lower in calories but still packs that crunchiness making it a healthier alternative to traditional popcorn.
• Butter - Salted butter works best to balance the sweetness of the marshmallows.
• Marshmallows - When melted, they act as a bind to hold the popcorn together and give it the sweet taste we're looking for.
• Food coloring - Green food coloring gives this popcorn the Grinch inspired theme we're going for.
• Festive Sprinkles - I like to use red candy heart sprinkles but any red sprinkles will do.

Can I use microwaved popcorn instead?

While microwaved popcorn will work in a pinch, air popped popcorn will have a fresher taste. Microwave popcorn typically contains added oils, salts, and/or additional ingredients that may alter the taste and texture of this popcorn.  Stovetop popcorn will also work, just be mindful of how much butter or coconut oil you use. 

Can I make this popcorn without food coloring?

Green food coloring is essential for achieving that bright green grinch color but you can omit it if you prefer a natural popcorn color. There are also natural food coloring options that you can find at your local grocery store but the color may not be as bright.

How to make easy Grinch popcorn

Step 1: Marshmallow mixture

Melt butter in a deep skillet or medium saucepan on medium heat and add marshmallows. Stir occasionally until the marshmallows melt.

Step 2: Add the green

Once the marshmallows have melted, turn off the heat and add the green food coloring. Start with a few drops, mix, and add more as needed.

Step 3: Combine

In a large bowl, add the marshmallow mixture to the popcorn. Lightly stir until the popcorn is coated.

Step 4: Final touches

Spread the popcorn out on a lined baking sheet in a single layer. Before the popcorn has set, add the red sprinkles and heart marshmallows if you desire.

Step 5: Serve

Once the popcorn has set, break into pieces and serve.

Pro tip: Once you add the marshmallow mixture, you'll have to work quickly to coat the popcorn before it hardens.

Can I prepare grinch popcorn in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this festive popcorn in advance. Store the popcorn in a ziplock bag or airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. However, the taste and texture are best shortly after preparation.

How do I prevent the popcorn from becoming soggy?

To prevent your grinch treats from becoming soggy, make sure the popcorn is completely dry before coating in the marshmallow mixture.

Air popped popcorn should not have any excess moisture, but sometimes microwaved popcorn does. This is why microwave popcorn may turn out soggy.

Variations

• M&Ms - Red M&M or green M&Ms make a great addition to this christmas grinch popcorn.
• Melted chocolate - If you're a chocolate lover, feel free to drizzle this popcorn with melted chocolate. Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate will work.
• Popcorn balls - Popcorn balls make great gifts during the holiday season. Instead of spreading the popcorn out on a cookie sheet, roll them into balls and let harden.
• Candy melts - Similarly to melted chocolate, melted candy melts add an aesthetic touch to this popcorn. Melt green candy melts or red candy melts and drizzle over the popcorn for an added touch.
• Holiday candies - Feel free to add more of your favorite candies like red hearts, candy canes, etc. to this festive treat.

Storage

Storing - To keep fresh, store leftover popcorn in an airtight container or sealed ziplock baggie at room temperature. For better taste and texture, we recommend consuming this easy snack within a few weeks.

Freezing - Although you can freeze this recipe, the taste and texture will be altered. If you do chose to freeze, make sure it's in a sealed container or baggie. Consume within a few months.

More holiday recipes you'll love

• For another delicious snack, try this halloween chex mix.
• This Christmas charcuterie board is the perfect addition to any holiday party
• If you're looking for something savory for a holiday dinner, try this old fashioned Thanksgiving dressing recipe.
• While this Thanksgiving punch recipe has fall flavors, it's perfect for a Christmas party as well.