INTRODUCTION
Popcorn cake is a fun and delicious treat that everyone loves, especially kids! It’s made with popcorn, marshmallows, and colorful candies. This cake is not your usual cake; it is perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a sweet snack at home. The best part is how easy it is to make. You can have fun creating it with your family or friends. Let’s look at why popcorn cake is so great and how to make it step by step.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love popcorn cake. First, it is a no-bake dessert, which means you don’t have to use the oven. This makes it ideal for hot days or when you do not want to spend too much time cooking. Second, you can easily change the recipe by adding your favorite candies or snacks. You can use M&Ms, pretzels, or even peanut butter cups! This cake is also fun to make. Kids can help mix the popcorn and marshmallows, making it a great activity for family time.
Popcorn cake also looks amazing. With its bright colors and fun shape, it will impress your guests. It tastes sweet and crunchy, which is a delightful combination. You can make it for birthdays, holidays, or just because you want a tasty treat. No matter the occasion, popcorn cake is a crowd-pleaser.
HOW TO MAKE Popcorn Cake
Making popcorn cake is quite simple. Let’s go through the ingredients and the steps needed to make this yummy dessert.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
You will need a few items to make this popcorn cake:
- A microwave-safe bowl
- A large mixing bowl
- A 10-cup Bundt pan
- Nonstick cooking spray
- A spatula or large spoon for mixing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3/4 cup salted butter
- 20 ounces mini marshmallows (2 x 10-oz bags)
- 14 cups unflavored popcorn, kernels removed
- 2 cups plain M&M’s
- Optional: 1/2 cup crushed pretzels
- Optional: 1/2 cup mini peanut butter cups
- Optional: 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
- Lightly spray a 10-cup Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray. This helps the popcorn cake come out easily after it has set.
- Add butter and marshmallows to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between heats until smooth and melted. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Place popcorn in a large bowl. Once the marshmallow mixture is melted, pour it over the popcorn. Stir it well to coat all the popcorn pieces evenly.
- Add M&Ms to the popcorn mixture. Gently fold them in so the colors do not bleed.
- Scoop the coated popcorn into the prepared Bundt pan. Press lightly to compact the mixture into the shape of the pan.
- Allow the cake to rest for 2 hours at room temperature or until firm. Once it is set, invert it onto a serving plate and slice into 12 pieces.
HOW TO SERVE Popcorn Cake
Popcorn cake is best enjoyed fresh but can also be served later. Cut it into slices and present it on a colorful plate. You may add extra M&Ms or sprinkles on top for decoration. It can be served alongside snacks and drinks at your parties. Kids often love to dunk slices into whipped cream or chocolate sauce for an extra treat.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Popcorn Cake
You can store popcorn cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. To freeze, wrap the leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to a month in the freezer. To enjoy, simply take it out and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Here are some ways to serve popcorn cake:
- With a scoop of ice cream: Vanilla or chocolate ice cream pairs perfectly with the crunchy cake.
- With sauces: Drizzle chocolate syrup or caramel sauce over each slice.
- As a party treat: Create mini slices and place on a decorative platter.
VARIATIONS
You can create many fun variations to popcorn cake:
- Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate-covered candies instead of plain M&Ms.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Fruity Popcorn Cake: Use fruity candies like Skittles instead of M&Ms for a tangy twist.
- Birthday Cake: Add rainbow sprinkles to the marshmallow mixture for a festive look.
FAQs
-
Can I use different types of popcorn?
Yes! You can use flavored popcorn, such as cheese or kettle corn, if you want a unique taste. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the popcorn cake a day ahead. Just keep it covered at room temperature. -
What if I do not have a Bundt pan?
You can use any large bowl or mold, but the shape might be different. Just make sure to coat it with nonstick spray. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you choose gluten-free candies and popcorn, the recipe will be gluten-free.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Popcorn Cake
To save time on the day you plan to serve popcorn cake, you can measure out your ingredients in advance. Prepare the popcorn and store it in a large plastic bag. You can also melt the butter and marshmallows the day before, let them cool, and then store them in the fridge. On the day of, just combine everything and press it into the pan. This will make it quicker and easier to enjoy your delicious popcorn cake.
Enjoy making and sharing this fun dessert!
Popcorn Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Lightly spray a 10-cup Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add butter and marshmallows to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between heats until smooth and melted (about 1-2 minutes).
- Place popcorn in a large bowl. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and stir to coat evenly.
- Gently fold in M&Ms.
- Scoop the mixture into the prepared Bundt pan and lightly press to compact.
- Allow the cake to rest for 2 hours at room temperature or until firm.
- Invert the set cake onto a serving plate and slice into 12 pieces.