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Bring the whimsy of Whoville to your holiday snack table with this fun, easy, and delicious Grinch Popcorn! Perfect for Christmas parties, movie nights, or edible gifts, this sweet-and-salty treat features vibrant green marshmallow-coated popcorn, fluffy mini marshmallows, and festive red M&M’s—just like the Grinch’s mischievous heart (before it grew three sizes, of course!).
With just 5 simple ingredients, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing snack in under 20 minutes. Let’s make it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Super easy – No baking, no candy thermometer!
✔ Kid-friendly – Great for holiday baking with little helpers.
✔ Customizable – Adjust colors & mix-ins to your liking.
✔ Perfect for gifting – Package in cute bags or boxes for friends & neighbors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Popcorn Base
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about ½ cup unpopped kernels)
- Salt to taste (optional, balances sweetness)
For the Grinch Green Coating
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 3 cups mini marshmallows (for melting)
- Green food coloring (or mix yellow + blue for Grinch green)
For the Festive Toppings
- ½ cup mini marshmallows (for extra fluffiness)
- Red M&M’s (or red candy melts, sprinkles, or Sixlets)
Optional Add-Ins:
- White chocolate drizzle
- Crushed candy canes
- Holiday sprinkles
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Pop & Prep the Popcorn
- Pop 10 cups of popcorn (air-popped or stovetop).
- Remove unpopped kernels and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Lightly salt if desired (balances the sweetness).
2. Make the Grinch Green Marshmallow Coating
- In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tbsp butter over low heat.
- Add 3 cups mini marshmallows, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and add green food coloring (or mix yellow + blue until you get the perfect Grinch shade).
3. Coat the Popcorn
- Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn.
- Gently fold with a spatula until evenly coated.
4. Add Toppings & Set
- Spread the coated popcorn onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- While still sticky, sprinkle with:
- ½ cup mini marshmallows (for snowy Whoville fluff)
- Red M&M’s (for the Grinch’s heart!)
- Let cool 10–15 minutes until set.
5. Break into Clusters & Serve!
- Once cooled, break into pieces and enjoy!
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Pro Tips for Perfect Grinch Popcorn
🎨 Get the Right Green – Start with yellow food coloring, then add tiny drops of blue until you achieve the perfect Grinch hue.
🔥 Low Heat for Marshmallows – Melt slowly to avoid burning.
🍫 Extra Decadence? Drizzle with white or red candy melts for more holiday flair!
🎁 Gift It Pretty – Pack in cellophane bags with ribbon for adorable edible gifts.
Fun Variations
1. Grinch Chocolate Popcorn
- Add ½ cup melted white chocolate to the marshmallow mix.
2. Peppermint Grinch Popcorn
- Toss in crushed candy canes for a minty twist.
3. Nutty Grinch Popcorn
- Mix in salted peanuts or pretzels for sweet & salty crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use microwave popcorn?
Yes! Use plain or lightly buttered (avoid heavy flavors).
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 2–3 days (marshmallows may soften).
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble up to 1 day in advance—store in a cool, dry place.
Serving Ideas
🎥 Movie Night Snack – Pair with “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”!
🎄 Christmas Party Dessert Table – Display next to cookies & hot cocoa.
🎁 Edible Gifts – Package in mason jars with a cute tag.
Final Thoughts
This Grinch Popcorn is the ultimate holiday treat—easy, fun, and full of festive cheer! Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, this recipe is a must-make this season.
Want more holiday recipes? Try these next: