Homemade Funfetti Marshmallow Popcorn Treats Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how playful and nostalgic these treats feel. They come together with just a few ingredients, and the texture is everything I want—crispy popcorn coated in soft, sticky marshmallow. The rainbow sprinkles bring a fun pop of color that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether I’m making them for kids or adults, everyone lights up when they see (and taste) them.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Popped popcorn (plain or lightly salted, no butter)

• Mini marshmallows

• Unsalted butter

• Vanilla extract

• Rainbow sprinkles (jimmies work best—they don’t bleed color as much)

Directions

1. I start by popping the popcorn and setting it aside in a large bowl. I make sure to remove any unpopped kernels.

2. In a large saucepan, I melt the butter over low heat.

3. I stir in the marshmallows and continue to mix until fully melted and smooth.

4. I remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Quickly, I pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and use a spatula to gently fold everything together until well coated.

6. I let it cool for a minute or two before adding the sprinkles, then mix again so they distribute evenly without melting.

7. I press the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined pan to set, or I shape them into balls by hand if I want individual portions.

8. I let them cool completely before cutting into squares or serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 square bars or 10–12 popcorn balls. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cool and set—so I’ve got a fun dessert ready in under 30 minutes.

Variations

• I sometimes drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for an extra sweet finish.

• For themed parties, I swap rainbow sprinkles for seasonal ones—pastels for spring, red and green for holidays, or school colors for graduations.

• I’ve added crushed freeze-dried strawberries or mini chocolate chips for a twist in flavor.

• If I want extra crunch, I mix in a handful of pretzel bits or cereal with the popcorn.

Storage/Reheating

I store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They don’t need refrigeration, but I keep them away from heat or humidity to maintain that soft-yet-crispy texture. I don’t usually reheat them, but if they firm up too much, a quick 5–10 seconds in the microwave softens them slightly.

FAQs

Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes, I often use plain microwave popcorn, but I avoid any with butter flavoring—it can make the treats greasy. Air-popped popcorn works perfectly too.

How do I keep the popcorn from getting soggy?

I make sure the popcorn is completely cool and dry before mixing in the marshmallow. Moisture is the enemy of that perfect chewy-crunchy texture.

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?

Absolutely. I just chop the large ones a bit so they melt faster. The measurement by weight stays the same.

Do I need to grease my hands when shaping into balls?

Yes, I lightly coat my hands with butter or cooking spray—it keeps the sticky mixture from clinging and makes shaping much easier.

Can I freeze these treats?

I don’t recommend freezing them—they can lose their texture and become too hard or chewy. They’re best enjoyed fresh within a few days.

Conclusion

Homemade funfetti marshmallow popcorn treats are everything I want in a quick, cheerful dessert. They’re sweet, chewy, and full of fun from the first bite to the last. Whether I press them into bars or shape them into playful popcorn balls, they’re always a hit at parties, movie nights, or whenever I want something that makes everyone smile.