Popcorn Piles with Sprinkles (Print version)

Sweet popcorn clusters decorated with red and green sprinkles, ideal for festive treat or snack time.

# What You'll Need:

→ Popcorn

01 - 6 cups freshly popped popcorn (about 1/4 cup unpopped kernels or 1 microwavable bag, plain or lightly salted)

→ Coating

02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/3 cup light corn syrup or honey
04 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
05 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Topping

07 - 2 tablespoons red sprinkles
08 - 2 tablespoons green sprinkles

# Directions:

01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
02 - Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl and remove any unpopped kernels.
03 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in corn syrup, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves, approximately 2 minutes.
04 - Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
05 - Immediately pour the hot mixture over the popcorn. Using a silicone spatula, gently toss to coat evenly.
06 - Working quickly as the coating sets fast, scoop heaping tablespoonfuls of coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small piles or clusters.
07 - While the popcorn clusters are still sticky, generously sprinkle red and green sprinkles over each pile.
08 - Allow the clusters to cool and set for 10 minutes before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Sweet and crunchy popcorn clusters
  • Quick and easy to prepare
02 -
  • For extra crunch, add 1/4 cup chopped nuts or mini pretzels to the popcorn before coating
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
03 -
  • Use fresh popcorn to avoid stale clusters
  • Sprinkle toppings immediately while coating mixture is still sticky
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