These fun Ghost Popcorn Balls are a perfect treat for Halloween! Made with popcorn, marshmallows, and a touch of vanilla, they’re sweet and sticky, just like the spooky season demands.
Plus, they’re super fun to make! I love adding little chocolate eyes to make them extra cute. These are a hit at any Halloween party, and the kids will have a blast making them with you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Popcorn: Air-popped popcorn works best, but you can use microwave popcorn too. Just make sure it’s unbuttered. If you’re pressed for time, store-bought popcorn balls can also be a fun substitute!
Mini Marshmallows: These add sweetness and stickiness. If you’re avoiding marshmallows, try using a homemade marshmallow fluff or even nut butter as a binder, though the texture will be different.
Candy Melts or White Chocolate: I love using white candy melts because they give a smooth finish. You can also use regular white chocolate; just remember it might not harden the same way.
Black Candy Melts/Decorating Gel: For the eyes, you can get creative! Use chocolate chips, raisins, or even small pieces of fruit if you want a fresher option.
How Do You Get Perfectly Formed Popcorn Balls?
Forming the popcorn balls is the key to making them look like cute ghosts. To prevent sticking, greasing your hands is essential. Here’s how to shape them nicely:
- After mixing popcorn and marshmallow, let it cool for a few minutes so it’s easier to handle.
- Use about a generous handful for each ball and gently squeeze it together. Too much pressure may ruin the shape, so be gentle!
- Form the balls in a quick but careful motion to maintain that ghostly round shape.
Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect! Each ghost will have its own unique personality. Have fun with it!
How to Make Ghost Popcorn Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup kernels)
- 5 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- White candy melts or white chocolate chips (about 12 ounces)
- Black candy melts or black decorating gel for eyes (or mini chocolate chips)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter, for hands and surface
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to set. In total, you’ll be about 45 minutes away from enjoying some spooky goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Popcorn:
Start by popping your popcorn kernels. You can use an air popper, stovetop, or microwave method—whatever you prefer! Once popped, carefully remove any unpopped kernels to avoid surprises later on. Place the fresh popcorn into a large mixing bowl and set it aside.
2. Make the Marshmallow Mixture:
In a big saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows. Stir the marshmallows constantly until they’re completely melted and smooth. Then, take the saucepan off the heat and mix in the vanilla extract for a lovely flavor boost!
3. Form Popcorn Balls:
Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the popcorn in the large bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold the popcorn to ensure it’s all coated in that sweet, gooey mixture. Now, it’s time to shape your popcorn balls! Lightly grease your hands with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into about 6 large balls, placing each one on a wax paper-lined baking sheet.
4. Prepare Ghost Tops:
Next, we’re making the ghostly top! Melt the white candy melts or white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until everything is smooth. Allow the melted candy to cool slightly but keep it pourable.
5. Create Ghost Shapes:
Dip the top of each popcorn ball into the melted white candy, letting it drape down the sides to resemble ghostly arms. You can also use a spoon to carefully spoon the melted candy over the top, shaping it into ghost forms. Get creative with how it drips down!
6. Add Eyes:
Before the candy coating hardens, place two black candy melts, drops of black decorating gel, or mini chocolate chips on each ghost for their adorable eyes.
7. Set and Serve:
Let the ghost popcorn balls sit at room temperature until the candy coating is completely set and firm. Once they’re ready, serve them on a spooky platter, and enjoy these tasty ghostly treats at your next Halloween gathering!
Happy Halloween, and enjoy your Ghost Popcorn Balls!
Can I Use Microwave Popcorn for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to use unbuttered microwave popcorn to avoid any unnecessary grease in your mixture. Popcorn that’s lightly salted will work great!
How Do I Store Leftover Ghost Popcorn Balls?
Store any leftover popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If it’s humid, consider refrigerating them, but be aware that they may become a bit chewy.
Can I Make These Popcorn Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the popcorn balls a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store them properly to keep them fresh and avoid sticking together.
What Can I Use Instead of Candy Melts?
If you don’t have candy melts, you can use white chocolate chips! Just melt them gently as they may not hold their shape as well when setting. Adding a bit of shortening can help achieve a smoother coating.