MVP Basketball Popcorn Treats
Get ready to score big at your next game day gathering with these MVP Basketball Popcorn Treats! Inspired by the fun and excitement of basketball, this sweet treat combines fluffy popcorn and marshmallows with a burst of orange flavor, resembling your favorite sport's iconic ball. They're easy to make and even easier to share, making them perfect for parties or as a fun snack for kids. Whether you're cheering from the sidelines or hosting a watch party, these delightful treats will surely be a slam dunk!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter or margarine
1/4 cup (melted)
Miniature marshmallows
10 ounces (puffed (about 6 cups))
Orange gelatin
1 (1 1/2 ounce) package (powdered)
Popped popcorn
12 cups (freshly popped)
Candy corn
1 cup (whole)
Black decorating gel
1/2 ounce (for detailing)
Instructions
1
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and miniature marshmallows. Microwave on HIGH for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed and softened. Stir every 30 seconds for even melting. (If desired, you can use a stovetop method while closely supervising to avoid burning.)
2
Once melted, remove from the microwave and stir in the orange gelatin until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
3
In a large mixing bowl, add the freshly popped popcorn and candy corn. Pour the marshmallow-gelatin mixture over the popcorn mixture.
4
Gently toss the popcorn and candy corn together using a spatula or your hands until well-coated with the marshmallow mixture. Be careful not to crush the popcorn!
5
With greased or buttered hands, take portions of the mixture and shape them into balls (about 2 inches in diameter) or any desired shape of your choice.
6
For presentation, draw lines on the orange popcorn balls with black decorating gel to mimic the appearance of basketballs.
7
If not serving immediately, wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap after they have completely cooled to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are MVP Basketball Popcorn Treats?
They are sweet, orange-flavored popcorn and marshmallow treats shaped and decorated to look like miniature basketballs.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
What are the main ingredients for these basketball treats?
The main ingredients include popped popcorn, miniature marshmallows, butter or margarine, orange gelatin, candy corn, and black decorating gel.
How do I melt the marshmallows and butter?
Combine them in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on HIGH for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until melted.
Can I melt the marshmallows on the stove?
Yes, you can use a stovetop method, but you must supervise it closely to avoid burning the mixture.
When do I add the orange gelatin?
Stir in the powdered orange gelatin once the butter and marshmallows are fully melted and smooth.
How much popcorn is needed for this recipe?
You will need 12 cups of freshly popped popcorn.
What gives the popcorn balls their orange color?
The orange color comes from adding a 1.5-ounce package of orange gelatin powder to the marshmallow mixture.
How do I incorporate the candy corn?
Mix the candy corn with the popped popcorn in a large bowl before pouring the marshmallow mixture over them.
What is the best way to coat the popcorn evenly?
Gently toss the popcorn and candy corn with a spatula or your hands until everything is well-coated.
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands while shaping?
Grease or butter your hands before handling the marshmallow-popcorn mixture.
What size should the popcorn balls be?
The recipe recommends shaping them into balls approximately 2 inches in diameter.
How do I create the basketball look?
Use black decorating gel to draw lines on the orange popcorn balls to mimic the appearance of a basketball.
How should I store these treats?
If not serving immediately, wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap once they have completely cooled.
Are these treats suitable for kids?
Yes, they are described as a fun snack for kids and perfect for parties.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either 1/4 cup of butter or margarine.
How much candy corn is included?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of whole candy corn.
What type of marshmallows work best?
Miniature marshmallows are best as they melt quickly and evenly; you will need a 10-ounce package.
How much black decorating gel is required?
A 1/2-ounce container of black decorating gel is sufficient for detailing the basketball lines.
What should I do to avoid crushing the popcorn?
Be very gentle when tossing the popcorn with the marshmallow mixture to keep the kernels intact.
Is this recipe considered a candy or a snack?
It is categorized as a candy but serves as a popular game day snack.
How long does it take to melt the marshmallows in the microwave?
It typically takes between 1 and 2 minutes on high power.
Can I make these in shapes other than balls?
Yes, you can shape the mixture into any desired shape of your choice.
Why is it important to stir the marshmallows every 30 seconds?
Stirring ensures even melting and prevents the marshmallows from burning or becoming too tough.
Are these treats good for a sports-themed party?
Absolutely, they are specifically designed for basketball-themed events or game day watch parties.
Do I need to cook the gelatin before adding it?
No, the powdered gelatin is stirred directly into the hot, melted marshmallow and butter mixture.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of melted butter or margarine.
Can I use pre-packaged popcorn?
Yes, as long as it is freshly popped and unflavored or lightly salted so it doesn't clash with the sweet orange flavor.
Should the popcorn balls be warm when I draw the lines?
It is easier to handle them once they have cooled slightly and set, but before they are fully hardened.
What is the texture of these treats?
They are sweet and fluffy with a slight crunch from the popcorn and a chewy texture from the marshmallows and candy corn.