These fun Ghost Popcorn Balls are perfect for Halloween! Made with fluffy popcorn, gooey marshmallow, and a spooky touch, they are a treat everyone will love.
You can easily shape these into ghostly figures and add little chocolate eyes. I always end up making extra because they disappear so fast at my house! 👻🍿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Popcorn: Freshly popped popcorn is a must for this recipe. You can pop it using an air popper or stovetop method. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-popped popcorn, just make sure it’s plain or lightly salted!
Mini Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows blend into the popcorn easily. If you only have large marshmallows, just cut them into smaller pieces. For a vegan option, look for marshmallows made without gelatin.
Candy Melts or White Chocolate: These are perfect for creating ghost shapes. If you can’t find them, melted white chocolate chips or yogurt-covered candies work too. Just be mindful of the melting time!
Butter: Unsalted butter is used here to control the flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or dairy-free margarine can stand in nicely.
How Do You Shape the Perfect Popcorn Balls?
Shaping popcorn balls can seem tricky, but here are my tips! First, ensure your popcorn is fresh and not overly dry. When you coat it with the marshmallow mixture, be fast — it sets quickly!
- Use lightly buttered hands to prevent sticking, which makes shaping easier.
- Form the balls while the mixture is still warm but manageable; this ensures they hold together.
- Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round; the charm is in their homemade look!
How to Make Spooky Ghost Popcorn Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Popcorn Balls:
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
- 1 (10 oz) package mini marshmallows (or large marshmallows cut smaller)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Ghost Toppers:
- Candy melts or white chocolate for ghosts
- Mini black candy eyes or black decorating gel for ghost eyes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and shape the popcorn balls, plus an additional 30 minutes for them to set. If you’re making the ghost toppers, add in another 10-15 minutes for melting and molding. It’s a fun and easy project for the family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Popcorn:
Start by popping the kernels using your preferred method—either air pop or stovetop. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels. Once done, transfer the popcorn to a very large mixing bowl and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Melt the Marshmallow Mixture:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add in the mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Afterward, remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
3. Combine Popcorn and Marshmallow:
Immediately pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn. Use a spatula or your buttered hands to carefully mix everything together, ensuring the popcorn is evenly coated with the sticky mixture.
4. Shape the Popcorn Balls:
Lightly butter your hands to prevent sticking. Take a handful of the popcorn mixture and shape it into balls about the size of a small fist. Place each shaped ball onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Let them set for about 30 minutes until they firm up.
5. Form the Ghost Toppers:
While the popcorn balls are setting, melt the candy melts or white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Do this in short bursts, stirring frequently until smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
6. Create the Ghost Shapes:
Using the melted candy, pipe or mold small ghost shapes on parchment paper. Aim for a rounded top with trailing arms to make them look ghostly. Before the candy sets, quickly place two mini black candy eyes or dots of black gel onto each ghost.
7. Assemble Your Ghosts:
Once your popcorn balls are set and the ghost toppers are firm, press one ghost onto the top of each popcorn ball lightly so it sticks.
8. Final Touch:
Allow the assembled ghost popcorn balls to set fully before serving, making sure the ghosts are secure. Now they’re ready to delight your Halloween guests!
This spooky treat perfectly combines crunchy popcorn and sweet gooey marshmallows, all decorated with charming little ghosts—ideal for any Halloween gathering! Enjoy your ghostly creations! 👻🍿
Can I Use Other Types of Popcorn?
Absolutely! While freshly popped kernels are best, you can also use pre-popped popcorn or flavored varieties. Just be cautious with flavored popcorn, as it may alter the taste of your ghost popcorn balls.
How Do I Store Leftover Ghost Popcorn Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Avoid refrigerating, as it can make the popcorn chewy.
What If I Don’t Have Candy Melts?
If you can’t find candy melts, white chocolate chips are a great alternative. Just melt them carefully, as they can burn easily. You can also use yogurt-covered candies for a fun twist!
Can I Make These in Advance?
Yes, you can make the popcorn balls a day ahead and store them as mentioned. Just add the ghost toppers on the day of serving to keep them looking fresh and cute!
