Irresistible Peppermint Bark Popcorn: Your Ultimate Holiday Sweet & Salty Treat Recipe
Prepare to be enchanted by the festive flavors of this delightful Peppermint Bark Popcorn. Imagine fluffy, buttery popcorn generously coated in smooth almond bark and speckled with vibrant, crunchy peppermint candy cane pieces. This simple-to-make treat is incredibly addicting – so much so that many lovingly refer to it as “Christmas Crack Corn!” Whether you’re planning a cozy movie night, preparing thoughtful homemade gifts, or simply craving a little salty-sweet indulgence, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Its effortless preparation and captivating taste make it an instant holiday classic.
Discover the Magic of Peppermint Bark Popcorn
Popcorn has always held a special place in my heart – the irresistible aroma alone is enough to make me weak in the knees. This recipe elevates ordinary popcorn into an extraordinary holiday experience. It all begins with a couple of bags of your favorite microwave popcorn and transforms into a festive, sweet, and salty confection adorned with a luscious almond bark coating and festive candy cane pieces. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, salty, and minty notes that will dance on your taste buds.
The inspiration for this magical holiday treat struck me recently. After whipping up a batch of Peppermint Dipped Chocolate Chip Cookies, I found myself with a small quantity of leftover almond bark and some delightfully crushed candy canes. My mind immediately jumped to my renowned Candy Coated Popcorn Recipe, affectionately known as “Crack Corn,” which everyone absolutely adores. I pondered, “What if I infused that beloved recipe with the joyful spirit of Christmas?” The result was this incredible Christmas Crack Popcorn, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with how it turned out!
Why This Peppermint Popcorn Will Become Your Holiday Favorite
There’s something truly special about this Peppermint Bark Popcorn that makes it stand out during the holiday season. It’s more than just a snack; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll want to make it year after year:
- **The Perfect Balance:** It masterfully combines the crisp, salty crunch of popcorn with the sweet, smooth texture of almond bark and the refreshing burst of peppermint from the candy canes. This harmonious blend creates an addictive treat that satisfies all cravings.
- **Effortlessly Festive:** With its pristine white coating and festive red and green sprinkles (if you add them!), this popcorn looks like it came straight from a holiday wonderland. It’s a visually appealing addition to any holiday spread or gift basket.
- **Incredibly Easy to Make:** Forget complicated baking. This recipe involves just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, making it perfect for even novice cooks or for last-minute holiday preparations. You can have a batch ready in under 10 minutes!
- **Versatile for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday party, enjoying a quiet family movie night, or searching for unique homemade gifts, this peppermint popcorn fits every scenario perfectly.
- **A Crowd-Pleaser:** Adults and children alike are captivated by its charm and delicious taste. Be warned: it disappears quickly!
Crafting Your Own Peppermint Bark Popcorn / Candy Cane Popcorn: A Simple Guide
Making this delightful peppermint bark popcorn, often called candy cane popcorn, is incredibly straightforward. You’ll need just a few key ingredients, and the process comes together in minutes. Let’s gather what you’ll need for this festive creation:
- **White Almond Bark:** This is the base of our delicious coating, known for its smooth melting properties.
- **Vegetable Oil:** A small amount helps the almond bark melt to a perfect, pourable consistency.
- **Microwave Popcorn:** Two bags are usually sufficient for a good batch.
- **Crushed Candy Canes:** The star of the show, providing that signature peppermint crunch and flavor.
- **(Optional) Peppermint Extract:** For an intensified mint flavor.
- **(Optional) Sugar Crystals:** To add an extra festive sparkle and a touch more sweetness.
With these simple components, you’re just moments away from creating a large, beautiful bowl of white almond bark popcorn infused with refreshing peppermint!
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Peppermint Popcorn
The journey to this irresistible snack is quick and easy. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:
- **Pop the Popcorn:** Begin by popping your microwave popcorn according to the package directions. Once popped, it’s crucial to carefully remove as many unpopped kernels as you can. This ensures a pleasant eating experience without any hard, unexpected bites. Pour the popped corn into a very large mixing bowl.
- **Melt the Almond Bark:** In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the almond bark squares and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until the mixture is completely smooth and pourable. The oil helps achieve that silky consistency. If you desire a stronger peppermint kick, now is the time to stir in a couple of drops of peppermint extract.
- **Coat the Popcorn:** Pour the warm, melted almond bark mixture evenly over the popped corn. Use a large rubber spatula to gently stir and fold the popcorn until every piece is beautifully coated.
- **Add the Candy Canes:** Drop in most of the crushed candy canes and continue to stir until they are well distributed throughout the coated popcorn. Reserve a small amount for a final garnish.
- **Set and Finish:** Spread the coated popcorn evenly onto a large cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle the reserved crushed candy canes over the top for an extra festive touch. If you have them, now is also the time to add some sparkling sugar crystals – I love the beautiful shimmer they add! Allow the almond bark to set completely. This usually takes about 15-30 minutes at room temperature, or you can speed it up by placing the cookie sheet in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
- **Store for Freshness:** Once the bark has fully hardened, break the popcorn into bite-sized pieces. Transfer it to an airtight container or a Ziploc bag to keep it fresh and crunchy for days.
*Find the complete printable recipe with precise measurements at the bottom of this post.
Pro Tips for Your Best Peppermint Bark Popcorn
While the recipe is wonderfully simple, a few extra tips can elevate your Peppermint Bark Popcorn to perfection:
- **Scale Up Easily:** If you’re making a larger batch for a party or gifts (which I highly recommend!), consider doubling or tripling the recipe. For coating large quantities, I find that a clean, large paper grocery bag works wonders. Simply pour the popped corn and melted bark mixture into the bag, add the candy canes, and gently shake to coat everything evenly. It’s a less messy and more efficient way to get a uniform coating!
- **Adjust Peppermint Intensity:** The crushed candy canes provide a lovely, mellow peppermint flavor on their own. However, if you’re a true peppermint enthusiast, don’t hesitate to add a couple of drops of peppermint extract to the melted almond bark before coating the popcorn. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired level of mintiness.
- **The Sparkle Factor:** While entirely optional, adding sparkling sugar crystals not only enhances the visual appeal, making your popcorn shimmer like fresh snow, but also introduces a delicate textural crunch. It’s a simple detail that adds a lot of holiday charm.
- **Prevent Soggy Popcorn:** Ensure your popcorn is completely cooled before adding the melted bark. Warm popcorn can create steam, which can lead to a less crisp result.
- **Even Spreading:** Don’t overcrowd your cookie sheet when spreading the popcorn to set. Give it ample space so the air can circulate, allowing the bark to harden uniformly. If you don’t have enough large sheets, work in batches.
Love this Recipe? Pin it for Later!
Don’t let this incredible recipe get lost in the holiday rush! If you’re excited to try this Peppermint Bark Popcorn, make sure you can easily find it when you’re ready. Pin it to your favorite holiday recipe board on Pinterest now so you can whip up a batch (or five!) anytime the craving strikes!
Peppermint Popcorn Recipe: Almond Bark vs. White Chocolate
While this recipe specifically calls for almond bark due to its fantastic ease of use, you absolutely can make a white chocolate peppermint popcorn recipe if you prefer! If you have white chocolate or white chocolate chips on hand, they can be melted and used as a substitute for the almond bark. The key difference lies in the melting process. I personally adore using almond bark because it melts so beautifully and smoothly, consistently reaching a perfect pourable consistency without much fuss. With white chocolate, it can sometimes be a bit more temperamental, prone to overheating and seizing if not handled carefully with low heat and gentle stirring. If using white chocolate, melt it slowly over a double boiler or in short microwave bursts, stirring frequently, to ensure a silky-smooth coating.
Peppermint Bark Popcorn as Thoughtful Holiday Gifts
This peppermint candy-coated popcorn isn’t just a snack; it’s an exceptional homemade gift that spreads holiday cheer! It’s perfect for everyone on your list – co-workers, neighbors, teachers, friends, and family. The presentation options are endless and fun:
- **Classic Cellophane Bags:** Fill clear cellophane bags with the popcorn and tie them with festive ribbons for a simple yet elegant presentation.
- **Charming Tins:** Reusable decorative tins make the gift feel even more special and help keep the popcorn fresh.
- **Fun Mugs or Decorative Bowls:** Fill a new holiday mug or a small decorative bowl with the popcorn, then wrap it in clear gift wrap for a dual-purpose present.
- **Mason Jars:** Layer the popcorn in clear mason jars for a rustic, charming look. Add a personalized tag!
Who wouldn’t be delighted to receive a delicious, homemade, and beautifully packaged treat like this during the holidays?
Explore More Delightful Popcorn and Snack Mix Recipes
When I’m looking for a quick and satisfying snack, my pantry often inspires me to whip up a delicious snack mix. Over the years, I’ve created countless variations, perfect for every craving and occasion! I’ve curated all my favorite recipes into a fantastic “roundup” of snack mixes, which you can see showcased in the inspiring photo above. This collection truly offers something for everyone, whether you prefer sweet, spicy, chocolate-covered, healthy, fruity, nutty, or anything in between. These mixes are ideal for casual snacking, elaborate gift-giving, or throwing the ultimate party!
Here are a few of my personal favorites, especially perfect for Christmastime and the winter season:
- **Candy Coated Crispix Snack Mix:** A delightfully crunchy and colorful mix featuring Crispix cereal coated in sweet, vibrant candy. It’s highly customizable with different sprinkles and candies, making it a fun project for the whole family.
- **Winter Wonderland Snack Mix:** This enchanting mix combines white chocolate, pretzels, Chex cereal, and festive sprinkles to create a beautiful and delicious treat that evokes the magic of a snowy landscape.
- **Double Chocolate Peppermint Muddy Buddies:** For the ultimate chocolate and mint lover, these muddy buddies (also known as puppy chow) feature a rich double chocolate coating with the invigorating crunch of peppermint. They’re absolutely irresistible!
Creative Ways to Utilize Leftover Candy Canes
It seems I always find myself with a surplus of candy canes once the holiday festivities wind down. Instead of letting them go to waste, let’s get creative and use them up! Here are some fantastic and delicious ways to repurpose those festive, minty treats:
- **Indulgent Fudge:** Transform crushed candy canes into a creamy delight! My White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for a holiday dessert platter or as a luxurious gift. The peppermint adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet fudge.
- **Festive Cookies:** Incorporate them into your baking! These Chocolate Mint Candy Cookies offer a delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint, making them an ideal addition to any cookie tray and a thoughtful homemade present.
- **Elegant Peppermint Bark:** A timeless holiday classic, this Dark & White Chocolate Peppermint Bark is incredibly simple to make yet looks incredibly sophisticated. Layers of rich dark chocolate and creamy white chocolate are topped with crushed candy canes for a striking and delicious treat.
- **Hot Cocoa Enhancements:** Elevate your favorite hot beverages! Stir some holiday cheer into your mug of homemade hot cocoa with a festive Chocolate Mint Stirring Spoon, or use a whole candy cane as a charming garnish for a creamy White Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Martini!
- **DIY Spa Gifts:** Think outside the kitchen! One year, I crafted Homemade Sugar Scrubs for my kids’ teachers, and the Peppermint Sugar Scrub was an absolute sensation. It’s a thoughtful, invigorating, and easy-to-make gift.
- **Dessert Toppings:** Simply crush them further and sprinkle them over ice cream, brownies, cupcakes, or even your morning yogurt for a burst of minty freshness and festive color.
Now that you’re well-equipped with tips and inspiration, let’s dive into making this utterly delicious Peppermint Bark Popcorn. Here’s the full, printable recipe for you! Enjoy every sweet, salty, and minty bite.
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Print Recipe
Peppermint Bark Popcorn
Equipment
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Rubber Spatulas
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13×18 Half Sheet Pan
Ingredients
- 3 squares almond bark
- 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 bags of microwave popcorn unpopped kernals removed
- about 1/3 cup crushed candy canes
- a couple of drops of peppermint extract optional
- sugar crystals optional
Instructions
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Pop the popcorn as directed on the package. Remove all of the unpopped kernels. Pour into a large bowl.
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Melt almond bark squares and oil in your microwave for one to one and a half minutes, or until you are able to stir into a smooth pourable consistency.
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Pour warm mixture over popcorn and stir to coat.
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After the popcorn is evenly covered, stir in crushed candy canes, reserving a bit for the next step.
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Spread popcorn out onto a large cookie sheet, Sprinkle with remaining candy canes, and let it sit for a little bit for the almond bark to set.
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Transfer it to an airtight container to store.
Notes
If you want to really give it a stronger peppermint flavor, add a couple of drops of peppermint extract to the melted almond bark before coating the popcorn. The candy canes give it a nice mellow peppermint flavor on their own.
I added sparkling sugar to mine, but it’s totally optional to do that!
Nutrition