Christmas Popcorn Mix is the perfect festive treat for the holiday season, combining the crunch of popcorn with the sweetness of candy and the saltiness of pretzels. This colorful mix, filled with red and green M&Ms, white candy coating, and festive sprinkles, is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. Easy to make and full of flavor, this mix captures the spirit of Christmas in every bite.

Ingredients

6 cups popcorn (already popped)
½ cup white candy wafers
¼ cup M&Ms (green and red)
1.5 oz pretzels
½ teaspoon red sprinkles
½ teaspoon green sprinkles

Directions

Spread the popped popcorn onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Break half of the pretzels into smaller pieces and scatter both the broken and whole pretzel pieces over the popcorn.
Evenly sprinkle the M&Ms across the tray.
Melt the white candy wafers in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted.
Drizzle the melted candy evenly over the popcorn mixture.
Sprinkle the red and green sprinkles on top, tossing lightly so all ingredients stick together.
Let the candy harden for about 30 minutes.
Transfer the mix to a container or serving bowl, and enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just the melting of candy wafers)
Total Time: 40 minutes (including setting time)
Servings: 8-10

Variations

Add nuts: For extra crunch, consider adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the mix.
Use different sprinkles: Swap out the red and green sprinkles for gold or silver sprinkles for a more elegant look.
Dark chocolate drizzle: Instead of white candy wafers, melt dark chocolate for a deeper flavor contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the Christmas Popcorn Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freezing: This mix doesn’t freeze well due to the candy coating, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

10 FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate instead of candy wafers?
Yes, you can use white chocolate or any type of chocolate you prefer. Just be sure to melt it slowly to avoid burning.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this a day or two before your event. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Can I add other candies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other holiday candies, like candy canes, mini marshmallows, or chocolate chips.
Is this a good snack for gift-giving?
Yes, this makes a wonderful holiday gift! Package it in a decorative tin or bag for a thoughtful and festive present.
Can I use flavored popcorn?
You can use flavored popcorn (like cheese or caramel) for a fun twist, but it may alter the overall taste of the mix.
Can I use gluten-free pretzels?
Yes, gluten-free pretzels work perfectly for this recipe.
How long does it take for the candy to harden?
Allow the candy to cool and harden for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
Can I add more M&Ms?
Of course! Add more M&Ms if you want a sweeter mix, or use holiday-themed M&Ms for extra color.
What type of popcorn should I use?
You can use either air-popped popcorn or microwave popcorn, as long as it’s plain without added butter or salt.
Can I use a different type of candy?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of candy melts or coatings based on your preference.

Conclusion

This Christmas Popcorn Mix is a deliciously sweet and salty treat that brings the holiday spirit to life. With its colorful ingredients and crunchy texture, it’s an easy snack that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday party or gifting it to friends and family, this fun and festive mix will surely spread joy throughout the season!