Are you craving a delicious and easy snack that's perfect for movie nights, parties, or a quick pick-me-up? Look no further! This M&M popcorn snack mix recipe is incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a burst of sweet and salty flavor that will leave you wanting more. It's the perfect blend of crunchy popcorn, creamy peanut butter M&Ms, and a touch of buttery goodness. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, especially if you're looking for a fun, healthy-ish treat.
Ingredients:
- 10 cups air-popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup kernels)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter M&Ms (or your favorite M&M variety!)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
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Pop the Corn: Start by air-popping your popcorn. This is healthier than using oil, and the airy texture is perfect for this snack mix. If you don't have an air popper, you can use a little coconut oil in a large pot on the stovetop. Just be sure to remove any unpopped kernels.
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Melt the Butter: While the popcorn is popping, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. This ensures even distribution and prevents burning.
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Combine and Season: Once the butter is melted, gently pour it over the popcorn in a large bowl. Sprinkle the salt evenly over the popcorn, tossing gently to coat.
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Add the M&Ms: Finally, add the peanut butter M&Ms to the popcorn and gently toss until they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to crush the M&Ms too much; you want them to remain whole for maximum enjoyment.
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Cool and Enjoy: Let the snack mix cool slightly before serving. This allows the butter to set and prevents the M&Ms from melting completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best M&M Popcorn Snack Mix:
- Fresh Popcorn is Key: Use freshly popped popcorn for the best texture and flavor. Stale popcorn will result in a less enjoyable snack.
- Customize Your Mix: Feel free to experiment with different types of M&Ms, or add other candies or nuts like pretzels, cashews, or even chocolate chips for a customized treat.
- Control the Salt: Adjust the amount of salt to your liking. Some prefer a more intensely salty snack, while others prefer a subtler flavor.
- Portion Control: This snack mix is incredibly delicious, so be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you're watching your calorie intake.
Variations:
- Chocolate Lovers' Delight: Use dark chocolate M&Ms or add some mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolate boost.
- Nutty Professor: Add 1/4 cup of your favorite nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews) for added crunch and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Sugar: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-4g
This M&M popcorn snack mix is a simple, delicious, and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The ease of preparation makes it a fantastic addition to your list of homemade cooking projects, and the customizable nature means you can create a perfect snack to suit your own taste preferences. Enjoy!