Popcorn Cake Dessert (Printable)

A playful dessert mixing popcorn, marshmallows, and candies for parties and celebrations.

# What You'll Need:

→ Main

01 - 12 cups plain popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)

→ Marshmallow Mixture

02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
03 - 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows

→ Add-ins

04 - 1 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces
05 - 1 cup mini pretzels, broken
06 - 1/2 cup roasted, salted peanuts (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Generously grease a 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray, ensuring all surfaces are coated to prevent sticking.
02 - Transfer popped popcorn to a very large mixing bowl, carefully removing and discarding any unpopped kernels.
03 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth, approximately 3-5 minutes.
04 - Pour melted marshmallow mixture over popcorn. Using buttered hands or a spatula, quickly toss until popcorn is evenly coated.
05 - Gently fold in candy-coated chocolates, pretzel pieces, and peanuts if using, reserving a handful of candies for garnish if desired.
06 - Firmly press mixture into prepared pan, smoothing top to create even surface.
07 - Allow cake to cool at room temperature for 1 hour or until completely set.
08 - Invert pan onto serving plate, slice into wedges, and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It brings out the kid in everyone who remembers sticky fingers and movie nights
  • The salty-sweet-crunchy combo hits every single craving at once
  • You can customize it with whatever candies and treats are hiding in your pantry
02 -
  • Working quickly is non-negotiable once that marshmallow coating hits the popcorn because it starts setting up immediately
  • Butter your hands or spray them with nonstick before touching the mixture or you will regret every life choice that led you to this moment
  • Press firmly into the pan but don't compress it into a dense brick, it should still feel slightly airy
03 -
  • Use a light touch when folding in your add-ins so you don't crush the popcorn into smithereens
  • Let the marshmallow mixture cool for just 30 seconds after melting so it's not lava-hot when you start mixing