I was hosting my niece’s birthday party last month when I realized I’d forgotten to make a kid-friendly snack. With thirty minutes until a dozen seven-year-olds descended upon my house, I started frantically pulling ingredients from my pantry. Popcorn, marshmallows, sprinkles – the makings of what would become our new favorite party tradition. The result was so surprisingly delicious that I’ve made it four times since, each batch disappearing faster than the last.
What I love about this recipe is how it bridges the gap between festive and practical. You get that celebratory feel with all the colorful sprinkles, but it comes together in minutes with ingredients you likely already have. The marshmallow coating gives it that perfect chewy-crispy texture that’s impossible to resist, while the sprinkles add just enough sweetness and visual appeal to make any occasion feel special.
This funfetti marshmallow popcorn has become my go-to for everything from birthday parties to movie nights to “just because” treats. It stores beautifully in airtight containers, travels well without making a mess, and always earns compliments. Best of all, it’s one of those rare recipes that both kids and adults genuinely enjoy equally. If you’re looking for more easy crowd-pleasers, you should definitely try our spaghetti & spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
Recipe Overview
Cuisine: American
Category: Snack/Dessert
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8-10
What You’ll Need
When it comes to equipment, you don’t need anything fancy – just a few basics from your kitchen. I’ve found that using a heavy-bottomed pot makes all the difference for even heating when melting the marshmallows. As for the sprinkles, I prefer the long jimmies over nonpareils since they hold their color better and don’t bleed as much. If you’re making this for a specific holiday, consider using themed sprinkles to match the occasion.
Large pot for melting marshmallows
Baking sheets for spreading the popcorn
Parchment paper to prevent sticking
Large mixing bowl for combining everything
Spatula for stirring and spreading
INGREDIENTS
Getting everything measured and ready before you start is crucial with this recipe since the marshmallow mixture sets up quickly. I usually line up my ingredients in order of use – it saves me from frantic searching mid-recipe. The butter should be properly measured (no guessing!), and I always have extra sprinkles on hand because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love extra sprinkles?
10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
4 cups mini marshmallows
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
PREPARATION
The first time I made this, I learned the hard way that working quickly is essential – the marshmallow mixture begins to set almost immediately. Now I have my baking sheets lined and ready before I even turn on the stove. Don’t stress if your first batch isn’t perfect; this is one of those forgiving recipes where even the “mistakes” still taste amazing. For another set-it-and-forget-it recipe that delivers incredible flavor, check out our crockpot lasagna soup.
1. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. Place popped popcorn in a very large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.
2. In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and immediately stir in salt and vanilla extract if using. Pour the marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and quickly toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle in the rainbow sprinkles and gently fold them throughout the mixture until distributed.
5. Spread the coated popcorn onto prepared baking sheets in a single layer. Let cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes before breaking into clusters.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Calories: 180 per serving
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Sodium: 85mg
Sugar: 20g
Creative Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the customization possibilities are endless. For chocolate lovers, I sometimes add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the marshmallow mixture – it creates a fantastic chocolate-covered popcorn effect. During the holidays, I use red and green sprinkles and a dash of peppermint extract for a festive twist. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the marshmallows to 3 cups and add 1/2 cup of peanut butter for a salty-sweet combination that’s always a hit.
Another variation I frequently make uses white chocolate instead of marshmallows. Simply melt 12 ounces of white chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, then toss with the popcorn and sprinkles. It creates a different texture that’s equally delicious and gives you that beautiful white background that makes the sprinkles really pop visually.
Storage and Gifting Tips
This colorful party snack stores remarkably well if you can resist eating it all immediately. I’ve found that placing it in an airtight container at room temperature keeps it fresh for up to five days – though it rarely lasts that long in my house. For gifting, I love using clear cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons, or decorative tins during the holiday season. It makes such a cheerful present that feels personal and homemade without requiring days of effort. If you’re feeling adventurous with flavor combinations, you might also enjoy our surprisingly refreshing pickle lemonade recipe.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use air-popped popcorn?
Absolutely! Air-popped popcorn works beautifully in this funfetti marshmallow popcorn recipe. You might need to adjust the salt slightly since you’re not getting any from butter or oil, but otherwise it performs exactly the same.
My marshmallow mixture hardened too quickly – what happened?
This usually means your heat was too high. The marshmallows should melt slowly over medium-low heat. If it happens again, work in smaller batches or gently reheat the mixture while stirring constantly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use vegan marshmallows, plant-based butter, and check that your sprinkles are vegan-friendly (many contain shellac or other non-vegan ingredients). The method remains exactly the same.
Conclusion
This funfetti marshmallow popcorn has earned its place as my most-requested party snack for good reason – it’s simple, festive, and universally loved. Whether you’re preparing for a birthday celebration, need a quick treat for unexpected guests, or just want to brighten an ordinary Tuesday, this recipe delivers that perfect combination of ease and excitement. I’d love to hear how your version turns out – tag me on social media if you give it a try!
