Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sweet treat has a gooey marshmallow coating (I just love gooey, melty marshmallows) with all the flavors of birthday cake. My kind of birthday treat! And of course you don’t need to wait for a birthday to make this.
- Quick and easy: You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry. If you’ve ever made Rice Krispies treats at home, this recipe is pretty similar.
- So fun! With colorful sprinkles scattered throughout, it’s perfect for birthdays, movie nights, or anytime you want to celebrate something.
- Great for sharing: Pack it in treat bags for party favors, pile it high in a big bowl for gatherings, or keep a stash hidden away just for yourself.
After you preview the recipe card, be sure to look below for ingredient substitutions, recipe and storage tips, and suggestions for pairings and tasty variations!
Birthday Cake Marshmallow Popcorn
Popcorn is covered in a chewy marshmallow and cake batter coating, then sprinkles are added for a fun and festive touch.
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Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 473kcal
Ingredients
- 12 cups popped popcorn
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups miniature marshmallows
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups white cake mix
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- Place 12 cups popped popcorn in a large bowl or roasting pan.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons butter and 6 cups miniature marshmallows over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla, 2 tablespoons milk and 2 cups white cake mix Stir until cake mix is dissolved.
- Pour the marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and stir to coat evenly. Top with sprinkles and spread onto a large, parchment lined baking sheet to cool.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g | Calories: 473kcal | Carbohydrates: 70g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Sodium: 376mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 42g
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Recipe Tips
- Easy mixing: The easiest way to mix the popcorn and marshmallow mixture is with two large, greased wooden spoons. Toss the popcorn just like tossing a salad.
- Don’t burn your marshmallows! Once the butter has melted and turn golden, lower the heat and melt the marshmallows slowly. Don’t rush this step!
- Sift the cake mix: This helps prevent clumps when you stir it into the marshmallow mixture.
- Work quickly: Once the marshmallow mixture is ready, pour it over the popcorn and toss immediately. It sets fast!
- Big bowl trick: Use the largest mixing bowl or even a roasting pan—you’ll need plenty of room to coat the popcorn evenly.
- Add sprinkles last: Sprinkle them on while the coating is still sticky so they stick, but don’t stir too much or the colors may bleed.
- This popcorn makes a wonderful birthday treat for friends, or a cute party favor. Simply place the popcorn in a clear cellophane bag and tie with a bow or some festive ribbon.
Storage Tips
- Store your popcorn in an air-tight container or zip-top bag at room temperature. Avoid storing the popcorn anywhere hot or humid, as it will go stale much faster. This popcorn is best eaten within a day or two, but can be kept up to a week if stored properly.
Variations and Fun Twists
- Color-themed popcorn: Use holiday themed sprinkles (think Christmas or Valentine’s Day), or team colors for game day.
- Drizzle it: Melt white or dark chocolate and drizzle over the top before the sprinkles for an extra fancy version.
- Mix-ins: Add crushed Oreos, mini M&M’s, or candy-coated chocolates for extra fun!
- Popcorn balls: Roll the coated popcorn into balls for a special party treat.
