Ghost Popcorn Balls are a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for Halloween or any spooky celebration. These little bites are crunchy popcorn clusters all stuck together with a sweet, marshmallowy mix and then shaped into playful ghost forms. The soft, gooey marshmallow coating pairs so nicely with the light crunch of popcorn, making each bite a delightful mix of textures.
I love making these because they’re so simple and playful. I usually have extra marshmallows on hand, so whipping up a batch of ghost popcorn balls feels like a little Halloween magic in the kitchen. Plus, kids and adults both enjoy shaping the ghosts and adding little faces with chocolate or candy eyes—it always sparks some smiles and creativity!
My favorite way to serve them is in a clear bowl with some Halloween decorations around, making them the star of the snack table. They’re great for sharing at parties or packing into small treat bags for friends. Whenever I bring these out, they disappear quickly, and everyone asks for the recipe—the perfect crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Popped Popcorn: Freshly popped popcorn is key for that crispy base. You can use air-popped or stovetop-popped. Avoid microwave bags that have added oils or flavors for best results.
Butter & Marshmallows: Butter adds a rich flavor and helps melt the marshmallows smoothly. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut oil. Mini marshmallows melt best here; large ones can be chopped.
Vanilla Extract (Optional): This adds a warm, gentle flavor but you can skip it if you prefer the classic sweet taste.
White Candy Melts or White Chocolate Chips: These create the ghost shapes. Candy melts are easier to work with as they stay smooth when melted; if using white chocolate chips, melt slowly and gently to avoid seizing.
Black Decorating Gel or Candy Pearls: Perfect for adding spooky eyes and mouths. If you can’t find candy pearls, use tiny chocolate chips or black icing pens.
How Can I Shape the Popcorn Balls Without Them Falling Apart?
Shaping sticky popcorn balls can be tricky, but here’s what works for me:
- Butter your hands well before handling the marshmallow-coated popcorn. This prevents sticking and helps you mold the balls easier.
- Work when the mixture is warm but not hot—too hot burns your hands, and if it cools too much, it won’t hold together.
- Press firmly but gently to compact the popcorn into a tight ball without squashing it flat.
- Place shaped balls on wax paper to cool and set completely; this helps them hold their shape longer.
Patience is key! If the mixture cools too fast, gently warm it again to soften before shaping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I like using a big bowl so there’s plenty of space to toss the popcorn and marshmallow mixture evenly.
- Large saucepan – for melting butter and marshmallows smoothly without splattering.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – makes mixing and spreading easy without sticking.
- Wax paper or parchment paper – to set the popcorn balls and keep them from sticking.
- Microwave-safe bowls – for melting candy melts or white chocolate chips easily.
- Piping bag or plastic bag (optional) – helpful for neatly applying ghost details like faces and arms.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use caramel popcorn or add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the marshmallow mixture for a warm, spicy twist.
- Mix in small chocolate chips or candy pieces for extra bursts of flavor inside the pops.
- Shape the mixture into mini balls and dip just the tops in melted chocolate for a fancy variation.
- Try using colored candy melts (orange or green) instead of white for fun, spooky ghosts.
Ghost Popcorn Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Popcorn Ball Mixture:
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about ½ cup unpopped kernels)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 (10 oz) package mini marshmallows
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Ghost Decorations:
- White candy melts or white chocolate chips
- Black decorating gel or small black candy pearls (for eyes and mouth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble the popcorn balls and ghosts, plus around 15 minutes for cooling and setting. It’s a quick and fun treat you can whip up easily, perfect for Halloween parties or festive snacks.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Pop & Prepare the Popcorn:
Pop your kernels using your favorite method, then pick out any unpopped kernels. Place the fluffy popcorn in a large bowl, ready for the marshmallow coating.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows:
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until smooth. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until they fully melt into a creamy mixture. Remove from heat and gently stir in the vanilla extract if you’re using it.
3. Combine Popcorn & Marshmallow Mixture:
Pour the melted marshmallow mixture quickly over the popcorn. Using a spatula or your hands lightly buttered to prevent sticking, toss everything gently and evenly to coat each kernel in that sweet, sticky goodness.
4. Shape the Popcorn Balls:
Let the coated popcorn cool just enough so you can handle it comfortably—it should still be warm and sticky. With lightly buttered hands, form the mixture into balls about the size of tennis balls. Place the shaped balls on wax paper to cool and set.
5. Make the Ghost Toppers:
While the balls set, melt white candy melts or white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth. Carefully pipe or spoon ghost shapes on top of each popcorn ball. For the ghost’s arms or tentacles, add small blobs on the sides and bottom to create that cute spooky look.
6. Add Faces:
Before the candy melts harden, use black decorating gel or stick on small black candy pearls to make eyes and a round mouth for each ghost.
7. Let Set and Enjoy:
Allow the candy decorations to harden fully before serving. Store your ghost popcorn balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days, if they last that long!
Can I Use Microwave Popcorn Instead of Popping Kernels?
Yes, you can use plain, unflavored microwave popcorn to save time. Just be sure to remove any unpopped kernels and avoid popcorn with added butter or seasoning for the best results.
How Do I Prevent My Hands from Sticking When Shaping the Popcorn Balls?
Lightly butter or spray your hands with cooking spray before shaping. This helps keep the marshmallow coating from sticking and makes shaping much easier.
Can I Make These Ghost Popcorn Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the popcorn balls and decorate them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and gooey.
What Can I Substitute for White Candy Melts?
If you can’t find white candy melts, white chocolate chips work well too. Melt them slowly and gently to avoid overheating or seizing.