Pioneer Woman Popcorn Balls

Pioneer Woman Popcorn Balls are made with popcorn kernels, peanut oil, sugar, cooking spray, candy corn, salted roasted peanuts, mini marshmallows, and unsalted butter. This fun Candy Corn Popcorn Balls recipe creates a tasty dessert that takes about 25 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 12 people.

Pioneer Woman Popcorn Balls Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons popcorn kernels
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil
• 1/2 cup sugar
• Cooking spray
• 1 cup candy corn
• 1/2 cup salted roasted peanuts
• 4 cups mini marshmallows (about 160 g or 2/3 of a 10-ounce bag)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

How To Make Pioneer Woman Popcorn Balls

1. Pop the Corn: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the popcorn kernels and peanut oil. Once the oil heats up, sprinkle the sugar over the kernels. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and shake the pot continuously. Cook until the popping sound slows down, approximately 8 minutes. Remove from the heat and transfer the popcorn to a large bowl coated with cooking spray. Add the candy corn and peanuts to the bowl.
2. Make the Marshmallow Mixture: In the same pot, combine the marshmallows and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is melted and smooth, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn mixture. Using a spatula, gently toss to coat everything evenly.
4. Shape the Popcorn Balls: Spray your hands with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, shape it into 3-inch balls. Place the balls on a sheet of parchment paper to avoid sticking.
5. Let Cool: Allow the popcorn balls to cool completely at room temperature. They will firm up as they cool.

Recipe Tips

• Watch the Heat: Use medium heat to cook the popcorn and sugar. This helps prevent burning and makes sure the popcorn pops well.
• Use Fresh Stuff: Always use fresh popcorn kernels and marshmallows. Fresh kernels pop better and give fluffier popcorn, and fresh marshmallows melt more smoothly.
• Mix Well: Make sure every piece of popcorn is covered with the marshmallow mixture. This helps the popcorn balls stick together better and taste great all around.
• Let It Cool a Bit: Wait a little before you make the popcorn into balls. This makes it easier to handle and helps the balls stay together. But don’t wait too long, or it might get too hard to shape.
• Keep Them Fresh: Store the popcorn balls in a container that doesn’t let air in. If you stack them, put wax paper between each layer to keep them from sticking. They taste best if you eat them within a few days.

What To Serve With Popcorn Balls

 Popcorn Balls pair well with salted pretzels, mixed nuts, chocolate cookies, and slices of fruit. You can also serve them with cheese and crackers, small cupcakes, iced tea, and lemonade for a fun and tasty snack selection at parties or family get-togethers.

How To Store Popcorn Balls

• Refrigerate: Allow the Popcorn Balls to cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the popcorn balls. First, wrap each ball individually with plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or use a freezer-safe container. The popcorn balls can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Pioneer Woman Popcorn Balls Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 of 12 servings

• Calories: 224
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 19 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Sodium: 18 mg

FAQs

Try More Pioneer Woman Recipes:

• Pioneer Woman Red Velvet Cake Balls
• Pioneer Woman Crispy Goat Cheese Balls
• Pioneer Woman Bourbon Balls
• Pioneer Woman Protein Balls
• Pioneer Woman Olive Cheese Balls