A fun, festive, and brightly colored holiday treat, Grinch Popcorn is the perfect sweet-and-salty snack for Christmas movie nights, parties, or gift bags. With its cheerful green coating and pops of red candy, this recipe captures all the whimsical charm of the season while staying incredibly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Grinch Popcorn is quick to prepare, requires just a handful of simple ingredients, and delivers the perfect combination of crunchy, creamy, and sweet. It’s a great family-friendly recipe where kids can help decorate, and it doubles as a budget-friendly homemade holiday gift. Its vibrant Grinch-inspired color makes it a standout treat at any festive gathering.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 cups popped popcorn (about 1 standard bag)
1 ½ cups white chocolate or vanilla melting wafers
Green food coloring (neon green works best)
1 tbsp butter (optional for smoother texture)
½ cup red and green M&M’s
Red heart sprinkles (optional)
Christmas sprinkles (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Popcorn
Place popped popcorn in a large bowl and remove all unpopped kernels.
Make the Green Coating
Melt white chocolate or melting wafers in the microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each round until smooth.
Add butter if you prefer a creamier texture.
Mix in green food coloring until you achieve a bright Grinch-like shade.
Coat the Popcorn
Pour the green mixture over the popcorn and gently toss until evenly coated.
Add the Mix-Ins
While the coating is still warm, sprinkle in the red and green M&M’s.
Add red heart sprinkles and/or Christmas sprinkles if desired.
Lightly press them into the popcorn so they adhere to the warm coating.
Set and Serve
Spread the coated popcorn onto parchment paper and let it set for about 10–15 minutes.
Break into chunks and enjoy.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 3–4 minutes (melting chocolate)
Setting time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: about 20 minutes
Variations
Use dairy-free or vegan white chocolate for an allergy-friendly version.
Add mini marshmallows for extra sweetness and texture.
Mix in pretzel pieces for a salty contrast.
Drizzle additional white chocolate on top for extra decoration.
Add edible glitter or gold stars for a sparkly holiday look.
Storage/Reheating
Store Grinch Popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can soften the popcorn.
This recipe does not require reheating, but if the chocolate becomes too firm, simply let it sit at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe?
Yes, microwave popcorn works perfectly as long as you choose a plain or lightly salted variety.
Can I make this treat ahead of time?
Absolutely. It stays fresh for several days when stored properly.
What type of food coloring works best?
Gel or neon green food coloring produces the brightest, most vibrant color.
Can I replace the white chocolate with candy melts?
Yes, candy melts work just as well and often melt more easily.
How do I prevent the popcorn from getting soggy?
Make sure the melted chocolate is not overheated and avoid adding wet ingredients.
Can I use air-popped popcorn?
Yes, air-popped popcorn is a great option and keeps the recipe light.
Are sprinkles necessary?
No, they are optional, but they add a festive touch and enhance the Grinch theme.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes, this is a very kid-friendly recipe, especially when adding the mix-ins and decorations.
Can I double the recipe for parties?
Definitely. This recipe scales very well.
What can I use instead of M&M’s?
You can use any red and green candies, chocolate drops, or coated chocolates of similar size.
Conclusion
Grinch Popcorn is a cheerful, quick, and irresistible holiday treat that adds a pop of color and sweetness to any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a movie night, gifting homemade snacks, or simply craving a festive treat, this easy recipe delivers fun and flavor in every bite. Enjoy making — and sharing — this whimsical Christmas popcorn.
Grinch Popcorn is a festive sweet-and-salty holiday treat made with green-colored white chocolate-coated popcorn, red and green M&M’s, and fun sprinkles—perfect for movie nights, parties, or gifting.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:4 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Snack
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 cups popped popcorn (about 1 standard bag)
1 ½ cups white chocolate or vanilla melting wafers
Green food coloring (neon green works best)
1 tbsp butter (optional, for smoother texture)
½ cup red and green M&M’s
Red heart sprinkles (optional)
Christmas sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Place popped popcorn in a large bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.
Melt the white chocolate or vanilla melting wafers in the microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each round until smooth. Add butter if using.
Stir in green food coloring until a vibrant Grinch-like shade is achieved.
Pour the green coating over the popcorn and gently toss until evenly coated.
While the coating is still warm, add red and green M&M’s, red heart sprinkles, and Christmas sprinkles. Lightly press them in so they stick.
Spread the popcorn onto parchment paper and allow it to set for 10–15 minutes.
Break into chunks and serve or store.
Notes
Use plain or lightly salted popcorn for best results.
Gel food coloring gives the most vibrant color.
Let chocolate cool slightly before mixing if it’s too hot to prevent sogginess.
This recipe is easily doubled or tripled for parties or gifting.
