Christmas Popcorn Cake

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Nothing says festive fun quite like this Christmas Popcorn Cake. It’s a no-bake holiday treat that doubles as both dessert and a centerpiece. Bursting with colorful candies, fluffy marshmallows, and sweet, crunchy popcorn, this whimsical cake is perfect for holiday parties, school events, or cozy nights in watching Christmas movies. The texture is playful, the flavors are familiar, and the result is an irresistibly fun dessert.

What makes this cake stand out is how easy and customizable it is. You can mix in red and green M&Ms for a Christmas look, mini marshmallows for chewiness, or even add chopped pretzels for a salty bite. Kids will love helping shape the ring mold, and it stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option for busy holiday hosts.

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Why You’ll Love This Christmas Popcorn Cake

• Festive and eye-catching: It looks like a giant holiday wreath on your dessert table.
• No-bake and low effort: No oven needed, just a few simple steps.
• Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for prepping the night before your event.
• Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Totally customizable: Swap in your favorite candies, nuts, or dried fruits.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting ready to make this cake is just as fun as eating it. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:

• Large Mixing Bowl: Crucial for tossing the popcorn with the melted marshmallow mixture and candies.
• Bundt Pan or Tube Pan: Shapes the popcorn mixture into a beautiful ring. Grease it well to ensure an easy release.
• Saucepan: Used to melt the butter and marshmallows together until smooth.
• Rubber Spatula: Helps fold the sticky ingredients without making a mess.
• Non-stick Spray or Butter: Prevents sticking when shaping the cake in the pan.

Each tool ensures a smooth prep and a polished final result. This is one recipe where preparation truly pays off.

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Ingredients for the Christmas Popcorn Cake

• Popped Popcorn – The heart of the cake. Use plain or lightly salted for best results. Avoid buttery microwave varieties.
• Mini Marshmallows – Melt into the binder that holds the popcorn together and adds a chewy texture.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly.
• Vanilla Extract – A small splash brings warmth and depth to the sweetness.
• Holiday M&Ms or Candy-Coated Chocolates – Add color and crunch, making the cake look festive.
• Sprinkles (optional) – For an extra decorative touch on top.

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How To Make the Christmas Popcorn Cake

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Grease your Bundt or tube pan generously with non-stick spray or butter. This will make removing the popcorn cake effortless.

Step 2: Pop the Corn

Pop enough popcorn to make about 10–12 cups. Place it in a large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.

Step 3: Melt the Marshmallow Mix

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine and Coat

Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the popcorn. Use a rubber spatula to fold everything together gently until evenly coated.

Step 5: Add the Festive Touch

Quickly fold in holiday M&Ms or your favorite colorful candies. If using sprinkles, add a few to the mix or reserve some for garnish.

Step 6: Shape and Set

Transfer the mixture into the prepared Bundt pan. Press down firmly with greased hands or a spatula to compact it. Let it cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour.

Step 7: Release and Serve

Flip the pan onto a serving plate and gently lift it off. If needed, tap the sides to release the cake. Slice and enjoy!

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Serving and Storing the Christmas Popcorn Cake

This popcorn cake is best served at room temperature. It slices beautifully and adds a cheerful, crunchy option to your dessert spread. To serve, use a serrated knife and cut into thick, chewy wedges.

To store, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as it can make the popcorn soggy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes, but choose plain or lightly salted varieties without extra butter, which can interfere with the marshmallow binding.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake holds up well for several days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

How do I keep the popcorn from sticking to the pan?

Generously grease the pan with butter or non-stick spray before adding the mixture.

Can I use a different shape mold?

Yes! Try muffin tins for individual popcorn treats or a loaf pan for slices.

What candies work best?

Holiday M&Ms are classic, but you can also use Reese’s Pieces, chopped peppermint bark, or red licorice bits.

Is this gluten-free?

It can be! Just ensure the popcorn and candies you use are certified gluten-free.

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Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If this Christmas Popcorn Cake made you smile, you might also love these other sweet and festive bites:

• Winter Brittle for a nostalgic nutty crunch.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake that’s gooey and indulgent.
• Brownie Refrigerator Cake if you love chocolate without baking.
• Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins for cozy mornings.
• Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies for classic cookie tray charm.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Check out my Pinterest board Kitchen By Kate for more holiday sweets, snack ideas, and family favorites.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add pretzels or extra marshmallows? Did your kids decorate it? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

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