Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peppermint Bark Popcorn is the ultimate holiday snack that’s easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet and salty cravings. The crisp, fluffy popcorn pairs perfectly with the creamy white chocolate, while the crushed peppermint adds a refreshing minty flavor that makes it feel like a festive treat. It’s fun, simple, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s highly customizable—add more or less peppermint, drizzle extra chocolate, or even throw in some nuts for added texture. This treat is sure to get you into the holiday spirit!

Ingredients

10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup kernels)
12 oz white chocolate chips (or white chocolate melts)
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (about 4-5 candy canes)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for a sweet-salty contrast)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Pop the popcorn:

Start by popping the popcorn. If using a stovetop or air popper, make sure you get 10 cups of popcorn (or enough to fill a large bowl). If using microwave popcorn, make sure to pop a couple of bags and remove any unpopped kernels.
Place the popcorn in a large mixing bowl, ensuring there are no unpopped kernels left.

2. Melt the white chocolate:

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler method over the stove. Be sure to add the peppermint extract to the white chocolate once melted and stir until combined.

3. Coat the popcorn:

Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the popcorn. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss and coat the popcorn with the melted chocolate. Make sure the popcorn is evenly coated but not broken apart.

4. Add the crushed peppermint:

Immediately after coating the popcorn with the white chocolate, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes) over the popcorn. Toss the popcorn again to distribute the peppermint pieces evenly. If you like, add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors and give it a sweet-salty contrast.

5. Set and cool:

Spread the peppermint bark popcorn in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help it cool and harden faster.
Allow the popcorn to cool and set for about 30 minutes to 1 hour at room temperature, or place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to speed up the process.

6. Serve and enjoy:

Once the peppermint bark popcorn has set and the chocolate has hardened, break it into pieces. Serve immediately or store it in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8-10
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Set time: 30-60 minutes

Variations

Add nuts: Add some chopped nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or cashews, to the popcorn for added crunch and flavor.
Dark chocolate drizzle: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the white chocolate-covered popcorn for a richer flavor and an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles or colored sugar to make it even more colorful and fun for the holidays.
Use milk chocolate: For a sweeter variation, you can use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate for the coating.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Peppermint Bark Popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. It can also be kept in the fridge if you prefer a firmer texture.
Reheating: If the popcorn gets too soft over time, you can crisp it up by placing it on a baking sheet and baking it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, but be careful not to burn the chocolate.

FAQs

Can I use other types of chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even semi-sweet chocolate. White chocolate is traditional, but any chocolate you prefer will work well with peppermint.

Can I make this popcorn ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Peppermint Bark Popcorn a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Can I use store-bought crushed candy canes?

Yes, store-bought crushed candy canes are a convenient option, but you can also crush your own candy canes using a rolling pin or food processor for a fresher option.

Can I make this recipe with air-popped popcorn?

Yes! Air-popped popcorn works great for this recipe, and it’s a healthier option. Just make sure you have enough to fill about 10 cups.

Is this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, use dairy-free white chocolate chips (or vegan white chocolate) and ensure that the candy canes you use are free from animal-derived ingredients.

Conclusion

Peppermint Bark Popcorn is the perfect festive treat to enjoy during the holidays. With its combination of crunchy popcorn, creamy white chocolate, and refreshing peppermint, it’s a snack that’s both fun to make and irresistible to eat. Whether you’re gifting it in cute bags, serving it at a holiday party, or enjoying it with your family at home, this popcorn will add a touch of holiday magic to any occasion. Enjoy the sweet, minty crunch and share the festive joy!