It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than with a deliciously festive snack? Enter: Christmas popcorn. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a tasty treat to munch on while watching your favorite holiday movies, these 20 festive Christmas popcorn recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday season.
From classic peppermint and candy cane flavors to more unique combinations like gingerbread spiced caramel and eggnog glazed, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. So grab some popcorn kernels and get ready to deck the halls with these deliciously festive treats!
Peppermint White Chocolate Popcorn
This refreshing twist on traditional popcorn combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the invigorating flavor of peppermint, perfect for hot summer days or as a unique treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 6 cups popped popcorn
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the white chocolate chips over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, peppermint extract, and salt until dissolved.
4. Pour the melted mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
5. Spread the popcorn out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and harden (about 30 minutes).
6. Once set, break into clusters and garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cranberry Almond Dark Chocolate Popcorn
Elevate your snack game with this unique combination of flavors, featuring tart cranberries, crunchy almonds, and rich dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon sliced almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine until fluffy.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the popped popcorn, melted chocolate, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and salt until well combined.
4. Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Break the mixture into chunks and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes popping time)
Gingerbread Spiced Caramel Popcorn
Warm up with a sweet and spicy treat! This recipe combines the coziness of gingerbread with the crunch of caramel popcorn, perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker. Remove any unpopped kernels.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Spread the popcorn on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Candy Cane Crunch Popcorn
Get into the holiday spirit with this sweet and salty popcorn recipe! Candy canes add a festive touch to this crunchy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 4-5 canes)
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Pop the kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix with the melted corn syrup and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the crushed candy canes and stir until coated.
4. Pour the mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog Glazed Popcorn
Add a touch of holiday cheer to your snack time with this unique Eggnog Glazed Popcorn recipe. The creamy eggnog flavor pairs perfectly with the crunchy popcorn for a delicious and addictive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the melted butter, eggnog, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
3. Pour the glaze over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
4. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or let cool completely for a crunchy snack.
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Christmas Tree Green Popcorn with Sprinkles
Bring a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with this vibrant and delicious popcorn recipe, perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons green food coloring
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Assorted sprinkles (green and red)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the green food coloring, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the popped popcorn to the bowl and toss until the kernels are evenly coated with the green mixture.
4. Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to dry completely (about 30 minutes).
5. Once dry, add the sprinkles and toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a snack recipe!
Tips:
– For an extra festive touch, use red and green sprinkles to create a Christmas tree pattern on the popcorn.
– Store leftover popcorn in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Salted Caramel Pecan Popcorn
Salted Caramel Pecan Popcorn: A Sweet and Savory Snack
Create a deliciously addictive treat with this easy recipe that combines the classic flavors of popcorn, caramel, and pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 6 cups popped popcorn
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Line a large bowl with parchment paper.
3. Melt the butter, sugar, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt, vanilla extract, and pecans.
6. Pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
7. Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Enjoy your deliciously salted caramel pecan popcorn!
Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Popcorn
Cozy up with a sweet and savory treat that combines the flavors of hot cocoa and marshmallows with crunchy popcorn. This recipe is perfect for a cold winter evening or as a fun snack to share with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup marshmallow creme
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: whipped cream and additional marshmallows for topping
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add vanilla extract and stir until combined.
3. Pour in the chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in marshmallow creme until well combined.
5. Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until coated.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream and additional marshmallows if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Reindeer Popcorn
Get into the holiday spirit with this sweet and salty treat! This Chocolate Peanut Butter Reindeer Popcorn is an easy and delicious snack perfect for parties or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup melted chocolate chips (milk or dark)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Red and green sprinkles or nonpareils for decoration
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together peanut butter, honey, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the melted chocolate chips over the peanut butter mixture and stir until combined.
4. Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
5. Sprinkle with red and green sprinkles or nonpareils to resemble reindeer antlers.
6. Let set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on popping time)
Spiced Orange Cranberry Popcorn
Elevate your popcorn game with this sweet and savory treat! This Spiced Orange Cranberry Popcorn recipe combines the warmth of spices, the brightness of orange zest, and the tartness of cranberries to create a unique and delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 orange, zested (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until combined.
3. Pour the spiced mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
4. Fold in the dried cranberries and orange zest.
5. If using nuts, sprinkle them on top of the popcorn and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Christmas Chex Mix Popcorn
Get ready to add some festive flair to your holiday gatherings with this sweet and salty Christmas Chex Mix Popcorn recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
– 1/4 cup pretzel sticks
– 1/4 cup Chex cereal (Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or a mix)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup red and green M&M’s
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the popped popcorn, mixed nuts, pretzel sticks, and Chex cereal.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg; stir until combined.
4. Pour the melted mixture over the popcorn mixture and toss until coated.
5. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Pour the melted white chocolate over the popcorn mixture and toss until evenly coated.
7. Sprinkle the red and green M&M’s on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Snowman Popcorn Balls
Get ready to bring some winter wonderland magic to your holiday gatherings with these adorable Snowman Popcorn Balls! Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re perfect for snacking on while watching your favorite holiday movies or as a fun addition to your party spread.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 6 cups popped popcorn
– White chocolate chips or white candy melts (for snowman faces)
– M&M’s or small candy pieces (for buttons and hats)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine corn syrup, water, and butter. Place over medium heat and stir until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove from heat and pour over the popcorn in a large bowl. Stir until the popcorn is evenly coated with the caramel mixture.
3. Let cool slightly, then shape into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Melt white chocolate chips or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Use melted white chocolate to create snowman faces and attach buttons and hats using a toothpick or fork.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes (depending on caramel temperature)
White Chocolate Raspberry Popcorn
Elevate your snack game with this irresistible combination of white chocolate and tangy raspberries on a bed of fluffy popcorn.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries, thawed
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels (popped)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels and set aside.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Fold in the thawed raspberries and mix well.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate-raspberry mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Add the butter and salt to taste, mixing well.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: None required! Just melt and mix.
Ginger Snap Spiced Popcorn
This sweet and spicy popcorn recipe combines the warmth of ginger with the crunch of snap peas to create a unique and addictive snack. Perfect for movie nights or impromptu gatherings, this flavorful popcorn is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popping corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 cup snap peas, chopped
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Pop the corn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker until popped.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, and sea salt.
3. Melt the butter in a separate bowl and add the sugar mixture to it.
4. Pour the melted butter mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in the chopped snap peas and crystallized ginger.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Red and Green M&M’s Popcorn
Get ready to add a pop of color and flavor to your snack time with this easy recipe! This sweet and salty treat is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup Red and Green M&Ms
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker until fluffy.
2. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the vegetable oil to the melted butter and stir until combined.
4. Pour the M&Ms into the butter mixture and stir until coated.
5. Add the salt and stir to combine.
6. Pour the M&M mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Maple Cinnamon Walnut Popcorn
Maple Cinnamon Walnut Popcorn: A sweet and savory blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon butter or cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Pour the maple-cinnamon mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until the kernels are evenly coated.
4. Add the chopped walnuts and salt to the popcorn mixture and stir until well combined.
5. If using butter or cooking spray, melt it in a microwave-safe bowl for 10-15 seconds and then drizzle it over the popcorn mixture.
6. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including popping time)
Chocolate Dipped Coconut Popcorn
This recipe combines the classic flavors of popcorn, chocolate, and coconut to create a unique and addictive treat. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this sweet and salty delight in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco or vegetable shortening)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. Melt the butter and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Add the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded coconut and chocolate chips.
4. Melt the chocolate mixture in the microwave or over low heat, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
5. Add the shortening to the melted chocolate and stir until combined.
6. Pour the chocolate mixture over the popcorn mixture and stir until coated.
7. Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)
Cherry Almond Vanilla Popcorn
Elevate your snack game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the flavors of cherry, almond, and vanilla in a crunchy popcorn treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn popper until fluffy.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sugar and salt; stir until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour the melted mixture evenly over the popped popcorn, stirring until coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped cherries and sliced almonds over the popcorn, mixing well to combine.
6. Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Allow to cool and harden for about 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (popcorn popping time) + 30 minutes (cooling time)
Toffee Apple Cinnamon Popcorn
Transform your snack time with this sweet and tangy popcorn recipe. Toffee, apple, and cinnamon combine to create a delightful treat that’s perfect for movie nights or as a healthy-ish indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup chopped dried apples
– 1/4 cup toffee bits
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or using an air popper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Place over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the sugar mixture evenly over the popped popcorn, tossing to coat.
4. Add chopped apples and toffee bits; toss again to distribute evenly.
5. Spread the popcorn mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Christmas Sprinkles and Frosting Drizzle Popcorn
Get into the holiday spirit with this sweet and salty treat! This easy-to-make popcorn recipe combines the crunch of fresh popcorn with the festive flair of Christmas sprinkles and a drizzle of creamy frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Christmas sprinkles (holographic or traditional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the vanilla extract and stir until combined.
3. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy cream to the pot. Stir until the sugars dissolve.
4. Pour the popcorn into the pot and stir until coated with the frosting mixture.
5. Sprinkle the Christmas sprinkles evenly over the popcorn and toss to combine.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Break up any clumps.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Use fresh, high-quality popcorn kernels for the best results.
– Adjust the amount of frosting to your desired level of sweetness.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 festive Christmas popcorn recipes! From classic flavors like peppermint and gingerbread to creative twists like eggnog glaze and hot cocoa marshmallow, there’s something for everyone. Try making candy cane crunch or chocolate peanut butter reindeer popcorn for a fun and tasty snack. Or, go all out with elaborate creations like snowman popcorn balls or Christmas tree green popcorn with sprinkles. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday gatherings.
