Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive and Fun: The colorful ingredients make it a perfect addition to any St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal last-minute treat.
Versatile: Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

4 cups plain popcorn
2 cups Lucky Charms cereal
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1½ cups mini marshmallows
¼ cup mint M&M’s
Festive St. Patrick’s Day sprinkles

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

Directions

Prepare the Popcorn Base: Pop the plain popcorn and place it in a large bowl along with the Lucky Charms cereal.
Melt the Marshmallow Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat promptly to prevent overcooking.
Combine: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and cereal. Gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
Add Toppings: Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with waxed paper. Sprinkle the mint M&M’s and festive sprinkles on top.
Set and Serve: Allow the popcorn mixture to cool and set. Once firm, break into pieces and enjoy!ng

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Nutty Twist: Add roasted nuts like almonds or pecans for extra crunch.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the popcorn for added richness.
Different Cereals: Substitute Lucky Charms with other cereals like Fruity Pebbles or Cocoa Puffs for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or until it becomes stale.
Reheating: This snack is best enjoyed fresh. Reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture.

FAQs

What type of popcorn should I use?

Plain, unsalted popcorn is recommended to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.

Can I use regular M&M’s instead of mint?

Yes, regular M&M’s or any other flavored M&M’s can be used based on your preference.

How do I prevent the popcorn from becoming soggy?

Ensure that the melted marshmallow mixture is not overheated and that you mix it quickly with the popcorn to prevent sogginess.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Is there a substitute for marshmallows?

Marshmallow fluff can be used as an alternative, though the texture may vary slightly.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use vegan marshmallows, plant-based butter, and ensure that all candies and cereals are vegan-friendly.

Can I add food coloring to make it more festive?

Yes, adding a few drops of green food coloring to the melted marshmallow mixture can enhance the festive look.

What other toppings can I add?

Consider adding pretzels, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for additional flavors and textures.

How do I package this for gifting?

Place the popcorn in cellophane bags and tie with festive ribbons for a delightful gift.

Can I use air-popped popcorn?

Absolutely, air-popped popcorn works well for this recipe.

Conclusion

Loaded Leprechaun Popcorn is a versatile and enjoyable treat that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion that calls for a sweet and salty snack. With its simple preparation and customizable options, it’s sure to become a favorite among kids and adults alike