Is there anything better than a big, colorful bowl of sweet and salty popcorn to kick off the holiday season? This Christmas popcorn is the kind of no-fuss treat that turns regular movie nights into something magical. It only takes 10 minutes to make. Imagine crunchy popcorn drizzled with creamy white chocolate, studded with red and green candies, salty pretzels, and sparkly sprinkles. It’s merry. It’s messy. It’s made for sharing
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Why You’ll Love This Christmas Popcorn
You know those recipes that look like you spent hours on them but secretly took just a few minutes and zero stress? This is one of them
It’s totally no-bake which means less cleanup
It’s easy enough for the kids to help (and sneak a few bites!)
It’s made for holiday gifting, snacking, and cozy movie nights
You can mix and match ingredients to fit your vibe or pantry stash
It stays fresh for days, making it a make-ahead lifesaver
Want another snack that’s great for movie night? Try this Jingle Jangle Chocolate Snack next time too
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this popcorn so jolly and irresistible
8 cups popped popcorn (plain or lightly salted, air-popped or bagged)
12 oz white chocolate chips or candy melts
1 cup red and green M&Ms (regular or peanut)
1 cup mini pretzels, lightly crushed
2 to 3 tablespoons holiday sprinkles (any kind go wild)
Optional additions: mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or cereal like Cheerios or Chex for an extra crunch
How to Make Christmas Popcorn Step by Step
This comes together super fast so get your ingredients prepped before you melt the chocolate
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the white chocolate in 30-second bursts, stirring each time until smooth and creamy. It usually takes about a minute and a half. You can also use a double boiler if you’re feeling fancy
Tip: Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil makes it silkier and easier to drizzle
Coat the Popcorn
Spread the popped popcorn out on a parchment-lined baking sheet or use a large mixing bowl. Drizzle about three-quarters of the melted white chocolate over the popcorn. Toss in half the M&Ms, half the crushed pretzels, and a sprinkle of holiday magic. Mix gently to coat
Add the Final Toppings
While the chocolate is still warm and tacky, add the remaining M&Ms, pretzels, and a generous shake of sprinkles. Drizzle the rest of the chocolate over the top for that extra festive sparkle
Let It Set and Break Apart
Let your popcorn magic set at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes. Once firm, break it into chunks and try not to eat half before packing it up
Tips for Perfect Holiday Popcorn Every Time
Prep your sheet and toppings before melting anything
Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and make cleanup a breeze
Work fast while the chocolate is melty so everything sticks
Toss gently to keep the popcorn fluffy and not smashed
Looking to gift a few different treats? These Cannoli Cupcakes make a dreamy pair with this popcorn
Gift and Serving Ideas
This recipe is made for gifting and sharing so get creative
Scoop it into clear treat bags tied with ribbon
Pile it into Christmas-themed popcorn boxes for a party
Pack it in holiday tins for shipping it travels well and looks adorable
Set it out in a big bowl at your holiday movie night with a side of hot cocoa
Want to build a festive dessert spread? You’ll love these cozy Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars with it
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Christmas popcorn stays fresh and tasty for several days when stored right
Use an airtight container and keep it at room temperature
Best eaten within 3 to 5 days but can last up to a week
Avoid the fridge since it makes the popcorn chewy
Fun Twists and Variations
Make it your own with fun mix-ins and flavors
Swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate
Add crushed candy canes for a peppermint kick
Toss in mini marshmallows for gooey magic
Try cereal for texture or theme it with green candy melts and heart sprinkles for a Grinch-inspired batch
FAQs About Christmas Popcorn
Can I make this popcorn ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s great for prepping the day before your party or movie night. Just store in a sealed container
What kind of popcorn works best?
Plain or lightly salted popcorn is ideal. Avoid buttered or flavored kinds as they can affect the chocolate texture and taste
Can I freeze this popcorn?
Not really recommended. Freezing can make it soggy once thawed. Room temp is best
Wrap It Up
There you have it. The easiest, crunchiest, most cheerful treat of the season. Whether you’re packaging it as a gift, serving it in a big bowl at your party, or sneaking bites while wrapping presents, this Christmas popcorn will be your new holiday favorite
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Christmas Popcorn: Easy & Festive Snack for Holiday Gifting
Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn plain or lightly salted
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or candy melts
- 1 cup red and green M&Ms
- 1 cup mini pretzels lightly crushed
- 2 –3 tbsp holiday sprinkles
- Optional: mini marshmallows crushed candy canes, or cereal (Cheerios or Chex)
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients before starting. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a large mixing bowl.
- Melt white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth (about 1½ minutes). Optionally stir in 1 tsp coconut oil for a smoother drizzle.
- Spread popcorn out and drizzle with ¾ of the melted chocolate. Toss in half the M&Ms, half the pretzels, and a few sprinkles. Mix gently to coat.
- Add remaining M&Ms, pretzels, and a big shake of sprinkles while chocolate is still tacky. Drizzle the rest of the chocolate over the top.
- Let set at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until firm. Break into chunks and enjoy!