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Patriotic Popcorn Cake

Patriotic Popcorn Cake

Patriotic Popcorn Cake is a quick and easy festive dessert featuring fluffy popcorn coated in a sweet marshmallow and butter mixture, layered with vibrant red, white, and blue candies. Perfect for celebrations, holidays, and themed parties, this fun and colorful treat comes together in minutes using simple pantry ingredients and delivers a universally loved, kid-friendly flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • About 10 cups popped popcorn
  • 1 bag mini marshmallows (about 10 oz)
  • ½ cup melted butter

Patriotic Candy Mix

  • Red M&Ms or similar red candies
  • Blue M&Ms or blue jelly beans
  • White chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Popcorn: Start by popping about 10 cups of popcorn using your preferred method—air-popped or stovetop works best. Make sure to remove any un-popped kernels to keep the texture enjoyable.
  2. Melt the Butter and Marshmallows: In a large microwave-safe bowl or saucepan over low heat, melt ½ cup of butter. Once melted, stir in one bag of mini marshmallows and continue stirring until completely melted and smooth.
  3. Combine Popcorn and Marshmallow Mixture: Immediately pour the melted butter and marshmallow mixture over the popcorn. Use a spatula to gently stir and coat the popcorn thoroughly, ensuring every kernel is covered but not smashed.
  4. Add the Patriotic Candies: While the mixture is still warm and sticky, fold in the red and blue candies and white chocolate chips evenly throughout the popcorn. Press the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined pan to form a cake shape.
  5. Cool and Set: Allow the cake to cool completely, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator. This helps it set so you can easily cut it into squares or shapes for serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh popcorn; avoid microwave popcorn with added flavors for cleaner taste and better texture.
  • Work quickly as the marshmallow mixture hardens fast; mix and shape before it sets.
  • Lightly grease your hands or spatula to prevent sticking while mixing and shaping.
  • Press the mixture gently to maintain a light, loosely packed cake.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: patriotic dessert, popcorn cake, marshmallow popcorn, 4th of July recipe, easy dessert, no-bake cake, gluten-free dessert