Valentine Sweet & Salty Popcorn Mix Recipe
Introduction
This Valentine Popcorn is a festive and fun treat perfect for sharing or gifting. Combining sweet, salty, and crunchy elements, it’s simple to make yet full of delightful flavors that celebrate the season.
Ingredients
- 1 bag of microwave popcorn
- 8 ounces M&Ms
- 1 cup mini pretzels, broken into pieces
- 10 ounces candy melts (pink or red, pink recommended)
- Sprinkles (heart-shaped or your choice)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the popcorn according to package directions, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, add the M&Ms and broken pretzel pieces to the popcorn and toss gently to combine.
- Step 3: Melt half of the candy melts in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Step 4: Drizzle the melted candy over the popcorn mixture and use a spatula to help evenly coat the candies and pretzels.
- Step 5: Spread the coated popcorn onto a baking tray lined with wax paper.
- Step 6: Melt the remaining candy melts and drizzle over the spread popcorn.
- Step 7: Garnish with sprinkles of your choice, ideally heart-shaped for a festive look.
- Step 8: Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to allow the chocolate to set before breaking the popcorn into servings.
Tips & Variations
- Use white candy melts for a different color contrast or add a bit of food coloring to customize the pink or red shades.
- Swap pretzels with nuts for added crunch or try different candy coatings like melted white chocolate for variety.
- Make sure to remove all unpopped kernels to avoid biting into any hard pieces.
Storage
Store Valentine Popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer it warm, but it’s delicious served cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of popcorn?
Yes, you can use any plain popcorn, including air-popped or stovetop varieties. Just avoid pre-flavored popcorn to keep the sweetness balanced.
What if I don’t have candy melts?
You can substitute candy melts with good quality white or colored chocolate chips. Melt them carefully to avoid burning and follow the same drizzle method.
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Valentine Sweet & Salty Popcorn Mix Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
Description
Valentine Popcorn is a sweet and salty treat perfect for celebrating love and friendship. This colorful snack combines microwave popcorn with festive M&Ms, crunchy pretzels, and pink candy melts, all topped with cheerful sprinkles. Easy to make and delightful to share, it’s an ideal homemade gift or party snack for Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients
Popcorn Mix
- 1 bag of microwave popcorn
- 8 ounces M&Ms
- 1 cup mini pretzels, broken into pieces
Candy Coating
- 10 ounces candy melts (pink or red, 5 ounces melted in two portions)
- Sprinkles (heart-shaped preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare Popcorn: Pop the microwave popcorn according to the package instructions, ensuring to remove any unpopped kernels for the best texture and safety.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl and add the M&Ms and broken mini pretzels. Toss gently to mix them evenly throughout the popcorn.
- Melt First Half of Candy Melts: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt half (5 ounces) of the candy melts in 20-second bursts, stirring between each interval until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Drizzle and Mix: Drizzle the melted candy melts over the popcorn mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold and combine the candy with the popcorn and candies, ensuring an even coating.
- Spread on Tray: Line a baking tray with wax paper and spread the coated popcorn mixture evenly over the surface.
- Melt Remaining Candy Melts: Melt the remaining 5 ounces of candy melts following the same method as before. Drizzle this second coating evenly over the popcorn on the tray.
- Add Sprinkles: Immediately top the popcorn with your choice of sprinkles, preferably heart-shaped, to add a festive Valentine’s Day touch.
- Chill to Set: Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, or until the candy melts have fully set and hardened.
- Serve: Once set, break the popcorn into bite-sized portions and enjoy or package for gifting.
Notes
- Ensure all unpopped kernels are removed to avoid injuries.
- Use a spatula to gently fold the popcorn to prevent it from breaking or crushing.
- For an extra touch, consider adding Valentine’s themed candies or nuts.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- Adjust sprinkles according to preference or holiday theme.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Valentine popcorn, candy popcorn, festive snack, pink popcorn, party snack, sweet and salty popcorn
