POPCORN BALL WREATHS

Popcorn Ball Wreaths image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 20m

Yield 12 popcorn wreaths

Number Of Ingredients 8

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14 cups air-popped plain popcorn
One 12-ounce bag marshmallows
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
14 drops green food coloring (not gel)
Nonstick cooking spray, for your hands
1/2 cup red mini candy-coated chocolates, such as M&Ms
1 red fruit leather candy, such as Joray

Steps:

Line a baking sheet with parchment. Put the popcorn in a bowl large enough to toss it with the melted marshmallows.
Combine the marshmallows and butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals at 50 percent power until the marshmallows are puffed and melted inside, about 1 minute. Add the vanilla and food coloring and stir until smooth and bright green.
Pour the marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and stir with a spatula to combine. Coat your hands well with cooking spray. Use your hands to toss and finish combining. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle in half of the candy-coated chocolates and mix. Add the remaining chocolates, mixing to combine evenly.
Divide the mixture into 12 portions (about 1 cup each). Pat into balls, then flatten slightly and use your thumb to make a hole in the center, similar to a wreath. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
To make the bows, cut 12 thin strips (about 1/8 inch thick) from the fruit leather and loop into bows. Place one at the bottom of each wreath.