Ingredients
Scale
For the Popcorn Base:
- 10 cups of popped popcorn: This is roughly equivalent to ½ cup of unpopped kernels. Using plain, unsalted, and unbuttered popcorn works best as it allows the sweet coating to be the star and helps it adhere better. Air-popped or stovetop popcorn is ideal.
- A large baking sheet: You’ll need one or two large, rimmed baking sheets to spread the popcorn out.
For the Monster Coating:
- 1 (12-ounce) bag of Green Candy Melts: Brands like Wilton or Ghirardelli are excellent choices. These are designed to melt smoothly and set up firm.
- 1 teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional): This can help thin the candy melts if they feel too thick, making it easier to coat the popcorn evenly.
For the Spooky Mix-Ins:
- 1 cup of candy corn: The classic Halloween staple adds a chewy texture and iconic colors.
- ½ cup of assorted candy eyeballs: Use a mix of small and large sizes to give your monsters different personalities!
- ½ cup of Halloween-themed sprinkles: Think bats, ghosts, pumpkins, or a simple mix of black, orange, and purple jimmies or nonpareils.
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace: Line a large baking sheet (or two, if needed) with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This is a crucial step that prevents the popcorn from sticking and makes cleanup incredibly easy.
- Pop the Popcorn: Pop your popcorn using your preferred method (air-popper, stovetop, or a plain microwave variety). As you transfer the popped popcorn to a very large mixing bowl, take a moment to pick out any unpopped kernels. No one wants to bite down on a hard kernel!
- Melt the Candy Coating: Place the green candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the melts are about 90% melted. Continue stirring outside the microwave until the residual heat melts the remaining pieces and the mixture is completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the candy to “seize” and become thick and clumpy. If your melted candy seems too thick, stir in the optional teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening until it’s smooth and has a more fluid consistency.
- Coat the Popcorn: Pour the melted green candy coating all over the popcorn in the large bowl. Using two silicone spatulas, gently fold and toss the popcorn until it is evenly coated in the green mixture. Try to be gentle to avoid crushing the popcorn.
- Spread and Decorate: Immediately pour the coated popcorn onto your prepared baking sheet and spread it into a single, even layer. While the coating is still wet, sprinkle generously with the candy corn and Halloween sprinkles.
- Add the Eyes: Now for the most important part! Press the candy eyeballs all over the popcorn. Place them in clusters and scattered about to make it look like a crowd of little monsters are peering out from the bowl. This is a great step for kids to help with!
- Cool and Set: Let the Monster Popcorn sit at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes, or until the candy coating is completely firm to the touch. You can also place it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to speed up the process.
- Break and Serve: Once the coating is fully set, gently break the popcorn apart into clusters of your desired size. Serve immediately in a large bowl or package it for gifts or party favors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One Normal Portion
- Calories: 280-320