Why not seize the opportunity to explore some exciting popcorn recipes for kids on National Popcorn Day? This January 19th, gather the entire family for a delightful culinary adventure with your little ones.
The rich history of popcorn stretches back 4,000 years when archeologists uncovered tiny popped corn cobs in a New Mexican cave. This delectable snack held a special place in Aztec culture, particularly during ceremonies, where the mystical transformation of a kernel into a “white flower” captivated imaginations.
However, popcorn didn’t achieve widespread popularity until the 1900s with the invention of the first steam-powered popcorn machine and later the microwave. In the present day, citizens of the United States consume a staggering 14 billion quarts of this beloved snack each year!
In this article, we will introduce you to three inventive homemade popcorn recipes designed especially for kids.
So, which one are you eager to try?
Popcorn Treats for Both Kids and Adults!
Googly-Eyed Cookie Monster Popcorn
Recipe by Two Sisters Crafting
Photo from the Two Sisters Crafting Blog
Because food is so much more fun when it has eyes!
Children thoroughly enjoy the interactive aspect of transforming their snacks into adorable characters resembling their favorite cartoons. Preparing popcorn snacks is an easy and enjoyable endeavor, perfect for gifting to their friends. Most importantly, your little chefs will take immense pride in their unique creations!
Ingredients:
- 10 cups of popped popcorn
- Salt
- 3 tbsp. butter
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- Mini Chips Ahoy cookies
- Mini Oreo cookies
- Candy eyes (we recommend Wilton’s)
- Blue food dye
Instructions:
- Pop the popcorn, season it with salt to taste, and set it aside.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Then, add the mini marshmallows and stir until they melt. Turn off the heat.
- Incorporate the food coloring into the marshmallow mixture. Pour the entire mixture over the popcorn and thoroughly coat it.
- Spread the coated popcorn onto a cookie sheet.
- Sprinkle Mini Oreos and Mini Chips Ahoy cookies onto the popcorn.
- Show your kids how to strategically position the googly eyes on the popcorn so they stay in place. This step promises loads of goofy and enjoyable moments!
- Allow the popcorn to cool before serving.
White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn for Valentine’s Day
Recipe by PassionForSavings
Photos from the PassionForSavings blog
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, now is the perfect time to elevate your love-themed snacks to a new level. Prepare this delectable popcorn treat with your children and package it in charming little bags tied with ribbons for them to share with their school friends. Alternatively, present it in a heart-shaped bowl to spread the love within your family!
Ingredients:
- 8 cups of popped popcorn
- 2 cups of white chocolate candy melts
- Sprinkles (opt for red, pink, and white for Valentine’s Day)
- Red and white peppermint M&Ms
Instructions:
- Pop the popcorn and melt the white chocolate candy.
- Gradually mix the melted chocolate with the popcorn until well coated.
- Spread the mixture onto wax paper and add sprinkles and M&Ms. VoilĂ !
Remember, these delightful popcorn snacks are suitable for all seasons. Adjust the sprinkle and M&M colors to suit any holiday’s festive theme!
Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Popcorn Balls
Recipe by Mess for Less
Photos from the Mess for Less blog
Indulging in a warm, comforting cup of hot cocoa is an irresistible pleasure. Now, imagine savoring that same delightful flavor in the form of a warm, chewy, marshmallowy popcorn ball. It’s akin to a Rice Krispie Treat but bursting with a rich hot cocoa flavor. Give it a try with your kids!
Ingredients:
- 1 bag of popcorn
- 1/4 cup of butter or margarine
- 4 cups of mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips
- 1 packet of hot cocoa mix
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, then add the marshmallows. Continue stirring until the marshmallows are completely melted, then add the hot cocoa mix. Stir on low heat until the hot chocolate has blended into the marshmallow mixture.
- Place the popcorn in a large bowl and pour the entire marshmallow mixture over it. Mix until the popcorn is thoroughly coated with the mixture, then add chocolate chips and stir.
- Grease your hands and your child’s hands with cooking spray or oil, then shape the mixture into 3-inch balls. Teach your little one to press the popcorn together firmly to prevent the balls from falling apart.
- Place the balls on parchment paper and let them set. Your delicious popcorn balls are ready to enjoy!
More about LingokidsÂ
The Lingokids universe provides original, award-winning, interactive content for kids, transforming how kids can learn. Lingokids creates games, songs, podcasts, videos, and activities that blend educational subjects with modern life skills to spark curiosity, imagination, and success in school—and beyond!
So, are you interested in learning more about how Lingokids helps families raise amazing kids? Download the app and check out more content on our YouTube channels!