Description
Hot Chocolate Popcorn is a cozy, sweet snack featuring fluffy popcorn coated in rich, melted chocolate blended with hot cocoa mix and topped with mini marshmallows. This easy, no-bake treat is perfect for movie nights, holiday celebrations, or gifting during the winter season.
Ingredients
Popcorn
- 10 cups popped popcorn (plain, no butter)
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup hot cocoa mix (dry powder)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare Popcorn: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl and carefully remove any unpopped kernels to avoid biting down on hard pieces.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and milk or heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Add Cocoa and Salt: Stir the dry hot cocoa mix and a pinch of salt into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined to infuse rich hot chocolate flavor.
- Coat Popcorn: Pour the chocolate mixture over the popcorn and gently toss with a spatula or wooden spoon until the popcorn is evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Arrange & Top: Spread the coated popcorn onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top.
- Set and Serve: Allow the popcorn to cool and the chocolate to set for 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature before serving to ensure the coating hardens appropriately.
Notes
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Add crushed candy canes for a festive peppermint twist.
- Store leftover popcorn in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- This snack is perfect for holiday gift bags or festive snack mixes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
