Grinch Popcorn Mix
Ready for the easiest win of the holiday season? This Grinch Popcorn is a wildly addictive mix of salty pretzels, marshmallows, and popcorn, all coated in vibrant green candy. It takes just 10 minutes to toss together, and those little red hearts make it a total showstopper for Christmas movie nights or classroom parties.
Equipment
- Large Rimmed Baking Sheet: You need the rim so the popcorn doesn't roll onto the floor, and a large surface area so it dries crunchy, not soggy.
- Parchment Paper: Don't skip this—melted candy is like glue. This makes cleanup instant.
- The Biggest Bowl You Own: Seriously. You need room to stir the coating without crushing the popcorn. If you don't have a giant bowl, use a clean roasting pan or stockpot.
- Silicone Spatula: The best tool for folding the sticky mixture gently.
Ingredients
The Base:
- 8 cups Popped Popcorn Salted, remove all unpopped kernels!
- 2 cups Mini Pretzel Twists The "Salty" element
- 2 cups Mini Marshmallows The "Whoville Snow" element
- The Green Coating:
- 12 oz 1 bag Vibrant Green Candy Melts (Wilton or similar)
- 1 tbsp Coconut Oil This is the secret to a smooth, glossy coating that isn't waxy
The Decoration:
- ½ cup Green & White M&Ms Mint or Plain
- ¼ cup Jumbo Red Heart Sprinkles Essential for the theme!
- Optional: Green sanding sugar or glitter for sparkle.
Instructions
- Prep the "Trash" Mix: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In an extra-large bowl, combine the popped popcorn, pretzels, and marshmallows. Toss them together gently so the heavy items don't just fall to the bottom.
- Melt the Green: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the Green Candy Melts and the coconut oil. Microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring vigorously in between, until completely smooth and runny.
- Note: Do not overheat, or the candy will become thick and clumpy.
- The Green Takeover: Pour the green mixture over the popcorn mix. Using a rubber spatula, fold the mixture gently. Use a "bottom-to-top" motion to coat the pretzels and popcorn evenly without crushing them.
- Spread and Decorate (Timing is Key): Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet in an even layer.
- Immediately scatter the M&Ms and the Red Heart Sprinkles over the top while the green coating is still wet. (If you mix the hearts in step 3, they get covered in green slime and you lose the effect!)
- Cool and Serve: Let the mix sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes until the green coating creates a firm crunch. Break into clusters and serve for movie night!
Notes
Flavor Tip: If you love the mint/chocolate combo, add 1/4 teaspoon of Peppermint Extract to the melted green candy for a "Minty Grinch" version.
Red Heart Substitute: If you can't find heart sprinkles, large Red Hots (cinnamon candies) work perfectly and add a spicy kick that fits the Grinch's personality.
Storage: Store in an airtight container or Ziploc bag for up to 5 days.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!