“Did you hear about the popcorn balls at the Halloween party?” If you’ve ever found yourself eagerly anticipating that crunch of popcorn wrapped in sweet marshmallow, you’re in for a treat! These Ghostly Halloween Popcorn Balls are not only a whimsical addition to your festive spread, but they also come together in just 20 minutes with minimal fuss. Perfect for both kids and adults, these treats are a crowd-pleaser that will keep everyone coming back for more. Imagine the delight of your guests as they sink their teeth into these light and airy snacks, decorated with adorable candy eyeballs. Whether you’re planning a lively Halloween bash or simply craving something fun to whip up at home, these popcorn balls are sure to ignite joy and laughter. Want to learn how to make them? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Ghost Popcorn Balls a Hit? Simplicity at Its Best: You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create these spooky delights in just 20 minutes! Kid-Friendly Fun: With their adorable candy eyeballs, these treats are not just delicious; they’ll have kids giggling with excitement. Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for Halloween parties, these popcorn balls are a delightful addition to any festive gathering, ensuring that no one will be able to resist. Customizable Treats: Feel free to get creative! Try adding colorful candy melts or sprinkles for a vibrant twist, or drizzle chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. Quick Prep, Maximum Joy: These ghostly snacks come together in a flash, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities with family and friends. If you love festive treats, you might also enjoy making delicious Oreo Balls Melt or savory Chicken Piccata Meatballs for your celebrations! Ghost Popcorn Balls Ingredients For the Popcorn Base • 16 cups popped popcorn – Use air-popped popcorn for a lighter treat, avoiding butter for better binding. For the Marshmallow Mixture • 10 ounces mini marshmallows – These provide the essential sweetness and sticky texture that holds the popcorn together. • ¼ cup butter – This adds a rich flavor and helps create a creamy marshmallow base. For the Ghostly Coating • 1 bag Wilton bright white candy melts – Gives the popcorn balls a spooky ghostly appearance; white chocolate chips can be substituted if necessary. For Decoration • As needed candy eyeballs – These add a fun, whimsical touch to your ghost popcorn balls that kids will love. These Ghost Popcorn Balls are not only easy to make but also a delightful treat for your Halloween festivities! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Popcorn Balls Step 1: Pop Corn Begin by preparing 16 cups of popcorn using your preferred method—air-popping or microwave popping works best. Be sure to sift through the popped popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels. Transfer the fluffy popcorn to a large mixing bowl, creating the delightful base for your Ghost Popcorn Balls. Step 2: Melt Mixture In a large pot, melt 10 ounces of mini marshmallows and ¼ cup of butter over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and glossy, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. This gooey blend will serve as the wonderful binding agent for your Ghost Popcorn Balls. Step 3: Combine Once melted, quickly pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the popped popcorn in the large mixing bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold and coat each piece of popcorn, ensuring every bit is covered with the sticky sweetness. Continue mixing until the popcorn is evenly coated, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Step 4: Shape Balls Lightly butter your hands to prevent sticking, then take small handfuls of the popcorn mixture and shape them into round balls about the size of a fist. Place each ball onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for any slight expansion as they cool. You should aim to make 10 to 12 hearty Ghost Popcorn Balls. Step 5: Set Allow the shaped popcorn balls to cool and firm up at room temperature. This process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your ambient conditions. You’ll know they are ready when they hold their shape and are no longer sticky to the touch, creating the perfect treat for your Halloween festivities. Step 6: Coat While the popcorn balls cool, melt the Wilton bright white candy melts according to the package instructions. Once melted, dip the tops of each cooled popcorn ball into the warm candy coating. Quickly sprinkle on candy eyeballs before the coating sets, giving your Ghost Popcorn Balls their adorable, spooky look. Step 7: Final Set Place the coated popcorn balls back onto the lined baking sheet and allow the candy coating to set completely, which may take an additional 15-20 minutes. Once firm, your delicious Ghost Popcorn Balls are finished and ready for serving at your Halloween party, providing joy and whimsy to all who partake. Make Ahead Options These Ghost Popcorn Balls are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy tasty treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare and shape the popcorn balls up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their delightful crunch. If you’re looking to get even more organized, feel free to melt and dip them in candy coating up to 3 days ahead—just allow them to set fully before storing. When it’s time to serve, you can add fresh candy eyeballs for a festive touch, ensuring your treats remain just as delicious and captivating as when you first made them! Expert Tips for Ghost Popcorn Balls Constant Stirring: Always stir the marshmallow mixture continuously while melting to avoid burning, ensuring a smooth texture for your Ghost Popcorn Balls. Hands-On Help: If the marshmallow mixture gets too sticky while shaping, lightly butter your hands to make forming the balls easier and more manageable. Temperature Control: Allow the melted candy melts to cool slightly before dipping; this prevents the candy eyeballs from sliding off your decorated Ghost Popcorn Balls. Avoid Refrigeration: Don’t refrigerate your popcorn balls, as the moisture can cause the candy coating to become sticky and lose its delightful texture. Timing is Key: Let the shaped popcorn balls cool completely and firm up for about 30 to 60 minutes, ensuring they maintain their shape for the Halloween party. What to Serve with Ghost Popcorn Balls Treat your guests to a delightful array of sides and sweets that make the perfect pairing for these whimsical popcorn treats! Spooky Apple Slices: Fresh apple slices brushed with lemon juice and sprinkled with cinnamon. Their crunch contrasts beautifully with the sugary texture of the popcorn balls. Witch’s Brew Punch: A fun, fruity punch made with green fruit juices and soda. The bubbly sweetness complements the ghostly treats while adding a festive drink option. Caramel Corn: Layered together, caramel corn and ghost popcorn balls create a sweet and crunchy medley. With different textures, they keep the snacking exciting. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: Salty pretzels coated in sweet chocolate offer a satisfying crunch. Their saltiness balances the sweet, sugary popcorn perfectly. Mini Pumpkin Muffins: Soft and spiced, these muffins echo the flavors of fall and Halloween. Pairing them with the popcorn balls adds warmth and seasonal charm. Halloween-themed Cheese Board: A mix of cheeses, crackers, and fruits arranged in a spooky design. The savory elements make a balanced addition to the sweet popcorn balls. Gummy Worms: A fun, playful candy that adds a touch of whimsy to your spread. They perfectly echo the playful spirit of the ghost popcorn balls. Ghostly Cupcakes: Decorated with white frosting and candy eyes, these sweets continue the ghostly theme of your treat table. Their richness pairs well with the lightness of the popcorn balls. Storage Tips for Ghost Popcorn Balls Room Temperature: Keep your Ghost Popcorn Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and texture. Make-Ahead: Prepare these treats a day in advance for your Halloween festivities. Just store them properly, and they’ll be ready to go when the party starts! Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the popcorn balls for up to 1 month. Wrap each ball in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, ensuring they don’t stick together. Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; simply let the popcorn balls sit at room temperature for a bit before serving, so they regain their delightful crunch! Ghost Popcorn Balls: Fun Recipe Variations Feel free to play with these fun variations to make your ghost popcorn balls even more festive and delicious! Colorful Melts: Use colored candy melts—like orange or green—for a more vibrant Halloween theme. They transform the appearance and add a playful twist! Festive Sprinkles: Add Halloween-themed sprinkles or edible glitter to the coating for a festive and sparkly effect. Kids will love the extra pop of color! Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the balls for a rich flavor twist that balances the sweetness of the marshmallow. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream! Nutty Crunch: Introduce a handful of chopped nuts or seeds to the popcorn mixture for a crunchy contrast that enhances the texture. It’s a delicious way to sneak in some healthy goodness! Spicy Kick: For adults, sprinkle a dash of cayenne or chili powder into the marshmallow mixture to add a surprising heat that complements the sweetness. It’s an unexpected twist to share! Fruit Infusion: Mix in some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture that pairs well with the crunchy popcorn. Plus, it gives a unique flavor element that everyone will enjoy! For more delicious ideas, why not also try making some festive Oreo Balls Melt or hearty Chicken Piccata Meatballs? Your taste buds will thank you! Ghost Popcorn Balls Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best popcorn for my Ghost Popcorn Balls? Absolutely! I recommend using air-popped popcorn to keep it light and fluffy. If you’re using microwave popcorn, opt for the plain, unbuttered variety; this allows the marshmallow mixture to bind better. Be sure to sift through and remove any unpopped kernels for the best texture! What’s the best way to store Ghost Popcorn Balls? Very simply! Keep your Ghost Popcorn Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to retain their freshness and delightful crunch. If you need more time, you can make them a day in advance without any issues! Can I freeze Ghost Popcorn Balls? Of course! To freeze them, wrap each popcorn ball in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag, ensuring they don’t stick together. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. What should I do if the marshmallow mixture is too sticky while shaping the balls? No worries! If you find the marshmallow mixture sticky, simply butter your hands lightly before shaping the balls. This will help prevent the mixture from adhering to your hands, making it easy to form the perfect Ghost Popcorn Balls! Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients? Definitely! If you know someone with allergies, be cautious with mini marshmallows and candy melts, as they may contain gluten or dairy. For a dairy-free alternative, look for vegan marshmallows and candy melts. Always check labels when serving others, especially children or guests with dietary restrictions. How long do the Ghost Popcorn Balls need to cool before serving? It’s best to let your Ghost Popcorn Balls cool and firm up for about 30 to 60 minutes at room temperature. You’ll know they’re ready to serve when they hold their shape well and are no longer sticky to the touch, giving your party a delightful treat that everyone will love! Ghost Popcorn Balls: Fun, Easy Halloween Treats for Everyone Ghost Popcorn Balls are a whimsical Halloween treat that combines crunchy popcorn with sweet marshmallow for a delightful snack everyone will love. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsSetting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 10 ballsCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Popcorn Base16 cups popped popcorn Use air-popped popcorn for a lighter treat, avoiding butter for better binding.For the Marshmallow Mixture10 ounces mini marshmallows These provide the essential sweetness and sticky texture that holds the popcorn together.¼ cup butter This adds a rich flavor and helps create a creamy marshmallow base.For the Ghostly Coating1 bag Wilton bright white candy melts Gives the popcorn balls a spooky ghostly appearance; white chocolate chips can be substituted if necessary.For DecorationAs needed candy eyeballs These add a fun, whimsical touch to your ghost popcorn balls that kids will love. Equipment Large mixing bowlLarge PotSpatulaLined baking sheet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Ghost Popcorn BallsBegin by preparing 16 cups of popcorn using your preferred method—air-popping or microwave popping works best. Be sure to sift through the popped popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels. Transfer the fluffy popcorn to a large mixing bowl, creating the delightful base for your Ghost Popcorn Balls. In a large pot, melt 10 ounces of mini marshmallows and ¼ cup of butter over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and glossy, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. This gooey blend will serve as the wonderful binding agent for your Ghost Popcorn Balls. Once melted, quickly pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the popped popcorn in the large mixing bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold and coat each piece of popcorn, ensuring every bit is covered with the sticky sweetness. Continue mixing until the popcorn is evenly coated, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Lightly butter your hands to prevent sticking, then take small handfuls of the popcorn mixture and shape them into round balls about the size of a fist. Place each ball onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for any slight expansion as they cool. You should aim to make 10 to 12 hearty Ghost Popcorn Balls. Allow the shaped popcorn balls to cool and firm up at room temperature. This process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your ambient conditions. You'll know they are ready when they hold their shape and are no longer sticky to the touch, creating the perfect treat for your Halloween festivities. While the popcorn balls cool, melt the Wilton bright white candy melts according to the package instructions. Once melted, dip the tops of each cooled popcorn ball into the warm candy coating. Quickly sprinkle on candy eyeballs before the coating sets, giving your Ghost Popcorn Balls their adorable, spooky look. Place the coated popcorn balls back onto the lined baking sheet and allow the candy coating to set completely, which may take an additional 15-20 minutes. Once firm, your delicious Ghost Popcorn Balls are finished and ready for serving at your Halloween party, providing joy and whimsy to all who partake. Nutrition Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 12gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesLet the shaped popcorn balls cool completely and firm up for about 30 to 60 minutes, ensuring they maintain their shape for the Halloween party. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
