Get ready to deck the halls with these 20 deliciously sweet and savory festive Christmas popcorn recipes! The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the spirit than with a warm and cozy bowl of freshly popped popcorn, loaded with your favorite flavors? From classic peppermint and gingerbread to decadent chocolate peanut butter and eggnog caramel, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering treats.
Peppermint White Chocolate Popcorn
Bring a refreshing twist to traditional popcorn with this sweet and tangy treat. Perfect for movie nights or as a festive snack for the holidays, this peppermint white chocolate popcorn is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint candies for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract.
4. Pour the hot sugar mixture evenly over the popped popcorn, tossing to coat.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Pour melted white chocolate over the popcorn mixture, tossing to coat.
7. Spread on parchment paper and let cool completely.
8. Garnish with crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint candies, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cranberry Almond Christmas Popcorn
Get into the holiday spirit with this sweet and tangy popcorn recipe, perfect for parties or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is smooth and warm (about 2 minutes).
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir well.
4. Pour the sugar mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until coated.
5. Fold in the dried cranberries and chopped almonds.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gingerbread Spiced Popcorn
This unique popcorn recipe combines the warmth of gingerbread spices with the crunch of freshly popped kernels, creating a deliciously addictive snack perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy movie nights.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until fluffy.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
4. Pour the butter mixture evenly over the popped popcorn.
5. Sprinkle salt to taste.
6. Toss the popcorn gently to coat with the spice mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes popping time)
Eggnog Caramel Popcorn
Eggnog Caramel Popcorn: A Sweet and Crunchy Holiday Treat
Get ready to deck the halls with this festive and flavorful Eggnog Caramel Popcorn recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 quarts popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter. Place over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract and eggnog.
5. Pour caramel mixture over popped popcorn in a large bowl. Toss until coated.
6. Add salt and nuts (if using); toss to combine.
7. Spread on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes, until caramel is set.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Enjoy your delicious Eggnog Caramel Popcorn!
Candy Cane Crunch Popcorn
Add a festive twist to your movie night with this sweet and salty Candy Cane Crunch Popcorn recipe. Perfect for the holiday season, this easy-to-make snack combines the flavors of peppermint and vanilla with crunchy candy canes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 pieces)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
6. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the popcorn and drizzle with melted butter.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Reindeer Popcorn
Get ready to deck the halls with this tasty and easy-to-make popcorn recipe, perfect for holiday gatherings or movie nights. Rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter combine in a sweet and salty treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– Red and green sprinkles or M&M’s for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until fluffy.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sugar and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
3. Pour the melted butter mixture over the popped popcorn, tossing until evenly coated.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Stir the peanut butter into the melted chocolate until smooth.
6. Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the popcorn and toss until well combined.
7. Sprinkle with red and green sprinkles or M&M’s, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Christmas Tree Green Popcorn
Add some festive flair to your holiday gatherings with this easy-to-make Christmas Tree Green Popcorn recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and colorful treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons green food coloring
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the green food coloring and melted butter until combined.
3. Add the popped popcorn to the bowl and stir until the kernels are evenly coated with the green mixture.
4. Sprinkle the vanilla extract over the popcorn and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. If desired, dust the popcorn with confectioners’ sugar for an extra festive touch.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy snack that’s ready in minutes.
Salted Caramel Pecan Popcorn
Transform plain popcorn into a sweet and salty masterpiece with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup caramel bits (such as Kraft Caramel Bits)
– 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted
– 6-8 cups popped popcorn
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the light corn syrup and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in caramel bits until melted and smooth.
5. Pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn on the prepared baking sheet. Toss until evenly coated.
6. Sprinkle toasted pecan halves over the caramel-coated popcorn.
7. Return to the oven and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Popcorn
Cozy up with this sweet and salty Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Popcorn recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup hot cocoa mix
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until it’s evenly coated.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the light corn syrup, granulated sugar, and salt. Place over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the baking soda until it fizzes.
5. Pour the marshmallows into the saucepan and let them sit for 30 seconds.
6. Stir until the marshmallows are coated with the hot cocoa mix.
7. Pour the mixture over the popped popcorn, stirring until well combined.
8. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Orange Cranberry Spiced Popcorn
Elevate your movie night or party snack game with this unique and flavorful popcorn recipe, combining the sweetness of orange and cranberries with the warmth of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine.
2. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, orange juice, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the spiced mixture over the popped popcorn, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Add the chopped cranberries and melted butter to the popcorn. Toss until the cranberries are evenly distributed.
5. Spread the flavored popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Snowman Popcorn Balls
Bring some winter fun to your snack time with these adorable Snowman Popcorn Balls! Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re perfect for kids’ parties or a quick after-school treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– Edible markers or small candies for eyes and mouth
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, melt the butter in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds).
3. Add the powdered sugar to the melted butter and stir until combined.
4. Pour the melted butter mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Use your hands to shape the popcorn mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) and dip each popcorn ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
7. Allow the chocolate to set before decorating with edible markers or small candies for eyes and mouth.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Christmas Chex Mix Popcorn
Get ready to mix and mingle with this festive popcorn recipe that combines the classic flavors of Chex Mix with the warmth of Christmas. This sweet and salty treat is perfect for holiday parties, movie nights, or just a fun snack to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1 cup Chex Mix cereal (original flavor)
– 1/2 cup M&M’s or holiday-themed candy pieces
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and butter. Microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Pour popcorn into a large bowl and drizzle with the sweet mixture. Toss until well coated.
5. Stir in Chex Mix cereal, M&M’s or holiday-themed candy pieces, and nuts (if using).
6. Spread mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even drying.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Enjoy your delicious Christmas Chex Mix Popcorn!
Maple Walnut Popcorn Clusters
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these sweet and crunchy Maple Walnut Popcorn Clusters! A perfect combination of buttery popcorn, rich maple syrup, and earthy walnuts will have you hooked.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the popped popcorn and melted butter. Toss until the popcorn is evenly coated.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the maple syrup over medium heat until it’s warm and fragrant.
4. Pour the warm maple syrup over the popcorn mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Stir in the chopped walnuts and salt to taste.
6. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before forming into clusters using your hands or a spatula.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and enjoy.
Red Velvet Popcorn with Cream Cheese Drizzle
Get ready to elevate your popcorn game with this sweet and tangy treat! This recipe combines the classic flavor of red velvet cake with the fun of popcorn, all topped off with a creamy cream cheese drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 tablespoon red velvet extract (or 1 teaspoon red food coloring)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the red velvet extract (or red food coloring), sugar, and salt.
3. Pour the melted butter over the popped popcorn and toss to coat.
4. Add the sugar mixture to the popcorn and toss until evenly distributed.
5. Let the popcorn cool completely.
6. To make the cream cheese drizzle, beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and beat until combined.
7. Drizzle the cream cheese mixture over the cooled popcorn and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on popcorn popping time)
Pumpkin Spice Christmas Popcorn
Get into the holiday spirit with this deliciously flavored popcorn that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the magic of Christmas. This recipe is perfect for snacking while watching your favorite holiday movies or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 cups popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250°F.
2. Pop the corn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until popped.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, water, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 250°F.
4. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
5. If desired, melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Drizzle over the popcorn.
6. Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Toffee Almond Crunch Popcorn
This sweet and salty popcorn recipe combines the rich flavor of toffee with the crunch of almonds, creating a delicious snack perfect for movie nights or parties. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup toffee bits (such as Heath or Skor)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine until fluffy.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, and butter. Place over medium heat and stir until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the toffee mixture over the popped popcorn and sprinkle with chopped almonds and toffee bits.
5. Stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Cherry Popcorn
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet indulgent recipe that combines the sweetness of chocolate, tartness of cherries, and crunch of popcorn.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup popping popcorn kernels
– 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large bowl with parchment paper.
2. Pop the corn kernels according to package instructions and transfer to the prepared bowl.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the light corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Heat over low heat until smooth.
4. Pour the warm syrup mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until well coated. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Dip the cherry-covered popcorn into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, allowing excess to drip off.
7. Place the chocolate-dipped popcorn on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including popping corn)
Christmas Sprinkles Popcorn Bark
Christmas Sprinkles Popcorn Bark Recipe
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive and delicious popcorn bark recipe, featuring crunchy popcorn, melted chocolate, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup Christmas sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, water, and butter. Place over medium heat and stir until melted.
3. Remove from heat and add popcorn. Stir until evenly coated.
4. Pour the popcorn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Melt milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Spread over the popcorn.
6. Melt white chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Drizzle over the milk chocolate layer.
7. Sprinkle Christmas sprinkles on top of the white chocolate layer.
8. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours (depending on cooling time)
Cinnamon Sugar Star Popcorn
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy treat that’s perfect for movie nights or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the sugar mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
5. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including popping time)
Peanut Butter Cup Holiday Popcorn
Get into the holiday spirit with this sweet and salty treat! This Peanut Butter Cup Holiday Popcorn recipe combines the classic flavors of peanut butter cups with the cozy warmth of popcorn, perfect for a festive snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup popcorn kernels, popped
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or peanut butter cups, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, salt, and baking soda. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter until smooth.
4. Pour the peanut butter mixture over popped popcorn, tossing until evenly coated.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler.
6. Drizzle melted chocolate over peanut butter-coated popcorn, sprinkling with chopped peanuts or peanut butter cups if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 deliciously sweet Christmas popcorn recipes! From classic flavors like peppermint and gingerbread to festive twists like candy cane crunch and hot cocoa marshmallow, there’s something for everyone. Try making Peppermint White Chocolate Popcorn, Cranberry Almond Christmas Popcorn, or Gingerbread Spiced Popcorn for a tasty treat. Or get creative with recipes like Snowman Popcorn Balls, Christmas Tree Green Popcorn, or Maple Walnut Popcorn Clusters. With so many flavors to choose from, you’ll be merry and bright all season long!